Looking to Become a US Citizen? Have You Registered for the Selective Service?

If you have ever dealt with the U.S. immigration system, it’s not unusual if you feel like you had to jump through a million hoops before you could become a fully naturalized citizen. Not only do you have to pass a test that deals with US history, but you also have to submit a plethora of proof that you have reason to become a citizen. Even if you marry a US citizen, you might still be denied depending on a variety of factors.

If you’re male and under the age of 26, there are even more challenges and requirements that you have to meet in order to gain full citizenship and avoid deportation. As most people who are going through the immigration process can tell you, one of the biggest requirements for those immigrating to the United States is proof that you are of good moral character.

What many people don’t know, however, is that if you’re male and under the age of 26, that means that you have to sign up for Selective Service. Selective Service, also known colloquially as “the draft,” does not mean that you will be forced to enlist in the US Army. It does mean that if there is a large-scale war, you should be ready to contribute to the effort in one way or another.

Refusing to register for the Selective Service or just not registering due to a lack of knowledge can be grounds for rejection of a citizenship application. Many officers actually consider this to be evidence that you are not of good moral character, and will petition for your rejection. Undocumented immigrants are not exempted from this rule, either.

Didn’t register for Selective Service? You still may be able to stay in the states. This is especially true if you fall into one of a number of different situations. You also may be able to write a letter that explains why you didn’t sign up for Selective Service. In order to be successful at these tasks, you may need the help of an experienced immigration lawyer to guide you through the process.

If you are having immigration problems, we can help. Contact the Law Office of Jon Bramnick to speak with a skilled immigration lawyer who can sort out your situation and protect your rights.