DAFI36-3112 — Immigration Requirements Upon Marriage In Overseas Commands

DAFI36-3112 governs guidance for members stationed overseas who marry citizens of other countries on US immigration-law restrictions.

Search DAFI36-3112

  • Publication number: DAFI36-3112
  • Title: IMMIGRATION REQUIREMENTS UPON MARRIAGE IN OVERSEAS COMMANDS
  • Date: 2024-05-06

View DAFI36-3112 on armypubs.army.mil


DAFI36-3112 addresses statutory authority, command and personnel responsibilities, and marriages involving U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents, and noncitizens. It requires counseling, addresses leave and travel costs, and identifies assistance with visas, entrance documentation, and related forms.

Applies to: Provide members stationed overseas, when marrying citizens of other countries, guidance on the restrictions of the United States (US) immigration laws.

Topics covered

  • U.S. citizen and noncitizen marriages
  • Noncitizen marriage immigration limitations
  • Foreign spouse visas and entrance documentation
  • Counseling on immigration laws
  • Leave to marry a noncitizen fiancé or fiancée
  • Travel costs for overseas marriages
  • Department of Defense Form 1278

Questions and answers

What immigration law governs the admission of noncitizens into the United States?

The admission of noncitizens into the United States is governed by the Immigration and Nationality Act (Title 8, United States Code (USC), Sections (§) 1101, Definitions, et seq.). (paragraph 2)

What status is available to a foreign fiancé or fiancée of a U.S. citizen?

Title 8 USC (§) 1184(d), Admission of Nonimmigrants, allows for the non-immigrant status for the foreign fiancè or fiancée of a US citizen who seeks to enter the US to conclude a valid marriage in the US within the 90 days after entry. (paragraph 2)

Does marriage itself support retention beyond an overseas return date or term of service?

Advised that marriage by itself is not grounds for retention in the overseas command beyond the applicant’s date eligible to return from overseas, nor is it grounds for retention in the Department of the Air Force beyond expiration of term of service. (paragraph 3)

Who pays for travel connected with leave to marry overseas?

Advised that travel in connection with leave to and from the United States or to and from the overseas command where the marriage is to take place is the responsibility of the individual service member and will be at no expense to the government. (paragraph 3)

Can leave be granted to return to the United States to marry a noncitizen fiancé or fiancée?

Granted leave, consistent with operation and military requirements, to return to the United States to marry a noncitizen fiancé or fiancée. (paragraph 3)

Ask Reggie.Bot a question about DAFI36-3112