France's "Service National" and US citizenship... compatible?

[Nanuri 0]

So when I was getting all "inscrit" at the French consulate (I'm French by birth but just barely got my act/paperwork together to get a passport etc) in San Francisco, I accidentally checked the box that signed me up for "Service National."

Now, as far as I know, France has done away with the mandatory draft, so I'm wondering 1) what this service is and 2) will it get me in trouble with the US? Because I know they'll revoke your US citizenship if you serve in the military of another country, but I don't know if it applies to some sort of civil service, which I think this equates to.

Any advice/input would be great. My dad, who actually, y'know, is fluent in all this French red-tape bureaucratic vocabulary (I am fine conversationally but when it gets to this stuff I am way over my head) is going to see about getting me off this list just to be extra-safe, but I'm curious as to what its impact could be.

[Lili 3]

So when I was getting all "inscrit" at the French consulate (I'm French by birth but just barely got my act/paperwork together to get a passport etc) in San Francisco, I accidentally checked the box that signed me up for "Service National."

Now, as far as I know, France has done away with the mandatory draft, so I'm wondering 1) what this service is and 2) will it get me in trouble with the US? Because I know they'll revoke your US citizenship if you serve in the military of another country, but I don't know if it applies to some sort of civil service, which I think this equates to.

Any advice/input would be great. My dad, who actually, y'know, is fluent in all this French red-tape bureaucratic vocabulary (I am fine conversationally but when it gets to this stuff I am way over my head) is going to see about getting me off this list just to be extra-safe, but I'm curious as to what its impact could be.

Don't worry so much. The "Service National" is basically one day of tests and watching military videos on a military base. I know if you are in the US and the consulate cannot provide with that "service national", it can be waived.

Also know that after 26 years old, your duty of "Service National" is waived.

I would call the French Consulate and simply ask them. Also, I highly doubt spending your day sitting on a chair consistutes serving in the military lol.

Edited August 7, 2008 by Lili

[Lili 3]

On a second thought, not sure it is waived when you turn 26 years old. I know that when you turn 26 years, you don't need to show your certificate anymore for any type of paperwork.

However, it is needed for exams and registering to vote.

[Nanuri 0]

On a second thought, not sure it is waived when you turn 26 years old. I know that when you turn 26 years, you don't need to show your certificate anymore for any type of paperwork.

However, it is needed for exams and registering to vote.

Ha! Thanks, that's interesting. I wonder if I could get my work to give me a paid day off since it's for 'civic duty' and all that...

Jk jk but thanks a ton for your help!