The legal aspects surrounding it may involve a large investment of time and effort. Even after the initial process of actually coming to a new nation is over, there still exist other things you need to consider to continue to fulfill the requirements to remain in your new home.
Then there are other optional avenues like obtaining a green card, applying for family members to join you and pursuing naturalization. While most things are the same for military spouses, there are a few slight differences. If you are an immigrant married to a member of the U.S. armed forces, there are some facts you may benefit from knowing.
1. You may apply for a green card if you live abroad
Even if you are not in the U.S. at the time of application, you may still seek a green card by going through a U.S. embassy or consulate. This applies even if your spouse is not abroad with you.
2. You may qualify for expedited naturalization
If the military stations your partner outside of the U.S., and you meet certain requirements, regulations may permit you to undergo expedited naturalization proceedings. Along a similar vein, if your spouse receives Permanent Change of Station orders that include you, you may request expedited processing (judged on a case-by-case basis).
3. Your time at overseas posts counts
As a green card-holder, the hours you spend with your spouse at an overseas military station may count as time spent in the states. This means it may go towards the residency requirements for naturalization.
If you are a military spouse and an immigrant, these provisions may make certain procedures faster or more convenient.
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