Do You Have to Be a US Citizen to Be Drafted? Understanding Military Draft Eligibility

Learn if US citizenship is required for military draft registration and who must register for the Selective Service System.

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No, you do not have to be a U.S. citizen to be drafted. Registrants for the draft include U.S. citizens and non-citizen immigrants who are lawful permanent residents, meaning those holding a Green Card. However, certain non-citizens, such as those who are in the U.S. on a temporary basis or are exempt by law, are not required to register.

FAQs & Answers

  1. Who is required to register for the US military draft? All male U.S. citizens and male immigrant non-citizens aged 18-25 who are lawful permanent residents must register with the Selective Service System.
  2. Are non-citizens who hold a Green Card required to register for the draft? Yes, lawful permanent residents (Green Card holders) must register for the draft even if they are not U.S. citizens.
  3. Do temporary visa holders have to register for the Selective Service? No, individuals in the U.S. on temporary visas or other temporary statuses are generally exempt from registering for the Selective Service.
  4. Can women be drafted in the United States? As of now, women are not required to register for the Selective Service, though this policy may change in the future.