The Green Card Process: How to Secure Your Permanent Resident Visa with USCIS

Are you ready for your permanent resident visa in the United States? This process is called applying for a Green Card. It lets you live and work in the US forever. But, do you know how to get a Green Card?

How to Apply for a Green Card

Getting a Green Card changes based on each person. Usually, someone has to petition for you. Then, when the petition is okay and a visa spot shows up for you, you can apply. Do this with USCIS, or go for a visa with the U.S. Department of State.

Biometrics are a must. You’ll need to give fingerprints, take photos, and sign some stuff. They also may want to talk to you to see if you can really get a Green Card.

Always keep up with your Green Card application. Make sure your address is always right. Stay on top of your case, how long things are taking, and if you can travel during this time. If you’ve got a Green Card already, you can learn how to get a new one if it’s lost or expired. Also, know what being a Green Card holder means for you.

Green Card Application Process

1. File an immigrant petition on your behalf.
2. Wait for petition approval and visa availability in your category.
3. File a Green Card application with USCIS or a visa application with the U.S. Department of State.
4. Undergo biometrics, including fingerprinting, photos, and a signature.
5. Attend an interview to determine your eligibility for a Green Card.

Important Considerations

• Monitor your application status with USCIS and promptly update your address.
• Stay informed about case status updates, processing times, and travel options.
• If you have a Green Card, know how to replace a lost or expired card.
• Understand your rights and responsibilities as a Green Card holder.

FAQs

What are the basic eligibility requirements to apply for a green card?

Basic eligibility requirements vary based on the type of green card for which you are applying. Common criteria include being sponsored by a relative who is a U.S. citizen or green card holder, having an offer of employment in the U.S., seeking asylum or refugee status, or being selected in the diversity visa lottery. Each category has specific eligibility requirements outlined by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

How long does the green card process typically take?

The green card timeline can vary widely based on the type of green card, the applicant’s country of origin, and current USCIS processing times. Family-based and marriage-based green card applications can take from 12 to 36 months, while employment-based green card applications might take 6 to 18 months. Applicants should check the latest visa bulletin and USCIS processing times for the most current estimates.

Can I live in the United States while my green card application is pending?

Generally, you may reside in the U.S. if you have a valid nonimmigrant visa during the green card application process. If you’re applying through adjustment of status, you can also live in the U.S. while your application is pending. However, if you are outside the United States when you apply, you must obtain an immigrant visa to enter and stay in the country.

What is the difference between adjustment of status and consular processing?

Adjustment of status refers to the process of applying for a green card while already present in the U.S. on a nonimmigrant visa. Consular processing is for applicants who are outside the United States or prefer to complete their permanent resident card application through a U.S. embassy or consulate abroad. The main difference is where and how the green card application is processed.

How do I know if I’m eligible for a marriage-based green card?

To be eligible for a marriage-based green card, you must be legally married to a U.S. citizen or green card holder. The marriage must be bona fide, meaning it was entered in good faith and not solely for obtaining an immigration benefit. USCIS will require proof of the relationship through documents and possibly an interview.

What are the types of green cards and how do they differ?

There are several types of green cards, including family-based green cards, employment-based green cards, humanitarian green cards, diversity visa lottery green cards, and others. Each category serves a different purpose and has unique eligibility requirements. For example, family-based green cards are for immediate relatives of U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents, while employment-based green cards are for various categories of workers and their families.

Can family members apply for a green card along with the main applicant?

Yes, certain family members, such as spouses and unmarried children under the age of 21, can be included in the main applicant’s green card application as dependents. This is common in employment-based and family-based green card applications. Each dependent will need to meet eligibility requirements and may be required to attend an interview.

What happens after my green card application is approved?

After your green card application is approved, you will receive your permanent resident card in the mail. This card proves that you are a lawful permanent resident (LPR) of the U.S., allowing you to live and work in the country permanently. It’s important to keep your address updated with USCIS and renew your green card before it expires unless you become a U.S. citizen.

What should I do if my circumstances change while my green card application is pending?

If your circumstances change significantly while your green card application is pending (such as marriage, divorce, a new job offer, or a move), you should report these changes to USCIS as soon as possible. Depending on the change, it may affect your eligibility or require additional documentation.

Conclusion

Getting a Green Card can be hard, but know this info is key. It lets you stay and work in the U.S. for good.

To get your Green Card, you need to follow some steps. This can be done in the U.S. or at a U.S. embassy. Make sure to give all needed papers and keep in touch with USCIS. They may ask for more info.

Having a Green Card is a big deal. It means you can live your American dream. If you’re not sure what to do, get help. With the right help, you can get through this and make the U.S. your home. And if you are looking to ‘self petition’ for EB1A or EB2-NIW, we could help you with writing the application. Check our FAQs on our process.