Last Updated on June 8, 2024 by Unwana Akpan
Obtaining a US green card is a significant step towards living and working permanently in the United States. It can be a complex and time-consuming process, but with the right guidance, it can be achieved.
In this guide, we will walk you through the steps to obtain a US green card, including the eligibility requirements, application process, and what to expect.
About US Green Card
What is a US Green Card?
A US Green Card, also known as a Permanent Resident Card (PR Card), is a document that proves you have permission to live and work in the United States permanently. It’s like a special ID card that shows you’re a legal resident of the US.
What does a US Green Card look like?
A US Green Card is a small, rectangular card made of plastic. It’s about the size of a driver’s license. On the card, you’ll find your name, date of birth, country of birth, and a unique identification number. It also has a photo of you and a signature. The card is usually green (that’s where it gets its name!), but it’s sometimes referred to as a “PR Card” or “Resident Alien Card.”
What rights do I have with a US Green Card?
Having a US Green Card gives you many rights and privileges. Here are some of the most important ones;
- Live in the US permanently; You can live in the US for as long as you want, without any restrictions.
- Work in the US; You can work for any employer in the US, or even start your own business.
- Travel in and out of the US; You can travel abroad and return to the US as many times as you want.
- Apply for Social Security benefits; You can apply for Social Security benefits, like retirement benefits or disability benefits.
- Apply for a driver’s license; You can apply for a driver’s license in the state where you live.
- Buy or own property; You can buy or own property in the US.
- Start a business; You can start your own business in the US.
- Apply for a passport; After a certain number of years, you can apply for a US passport.
What are the benefits of having a US Green Card?
Having a US Green Card has many benefits. Here are some of the most important ones:
- Job opportunities; You can work for any employer in the US, or even start your own business.
- Education opportunities; You can study in the US and access better education opportunities.
- Healthcare; You can access better healthcare in the US.
- Safety and security; You can live in a safe and secure environment.
- Family reunification; You can bring your family members to live with you in the US.
- Path to US citizenship; After a certain number of years, you can apply for US citizenship.
How long is a US Green Card valid?
A US Green Card is usually valid for 10 years. After 10 years, you’ll need to renew it. If you’re under 18 years old, your Green Card will be valid for 10 years or until you turn 18, whichever comes first.
Can I lose my US Green Card?
Yes, you can lose your US Green Card if you;
- Commit a crime; If you commit a serious crime, you can lose your Green Card.
- Abandon your residence; If you move out of the US and don’t intend to return, you can lose your Green Card.
- Fail to renew your Green Card; If you don’t renew your Green Card when it expires, you can lose it.
How do I get a US Green Card – Guide to Obtaining a US Green Card
There are several ways to get a US Green Card. Here are some of the most common ways;
- Family-based immigration: If you have a close family member who is a US citizen or permanent resident, they can sponsor you for a Green Card.
- Employment-based immigration: If you have a job offer in the US or have skills that are in demand, you can apply for a Green Card.
- Refugee or asylum status: If you’re fleeing persecution or violence in your home country, you can apply for a Green Card.
- Diversity Visa (DV) program: You can enter a lottery to win a Green Card.
A US green card, also known as a permanent resident card (PR card), is a document that proves your permanent resident status in the United States. It allows you to live and work in the US permanently and is a step towards becoming a US citizen.
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Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for a US Green Card, you must meet certain requirements. These requirements vary depending on the category you apply under, but here are some general requirements:
Family-Based Immigration
- You must have a close family member who is a US citizen or permanent resident.
- Your family member must sponsor you for a Green Card.
- You must have a valid relationship with your family member (such as a spouse, child, parent, or sibling).
Employment-Based Immigration
- You must have a job offer in the US or have skills that are in demand.
- Your employer must sponsor you for a Green Card.
- You must have the necessary education, training, and experience for the job.
Refugee or Asylum Status
- You must be fleeing persecution or violence in your home country.
- You must be unable to return to your home country due to fear of harm.
- You must apply for asylum in the US or be referred by the United Nations refugee agency.
Diversity Visa (DV) Program
- You must be from a country with low rates of immigration to the US.
- You must meet the education and work experience requirements.
- You must enter the lottery and be selected.
General Requirements
- You must be admissible to the US (meaning you don’t have any criminal or immigration violations).
- You must have a valid passport.
- You must have a medical examination.
- You must have an interview with a US immigration officer.
What are the categories for US Green Card eligibility?
There are several categories for US Green Card eligibility, including;
- Immediate Relative; Spouse, unmarried children under 21, and parents of US citizens.
- Family Preference; Unmarried children over 21, married children, and siblings of US citizens.
- Employment-Based; Workers with job offers or skills in demand.
- Refugee or Asylum Status; Those fleeing persecution or violence.
- Diversity Visa (DV) Program; Those from countries with low immigration rates.
What are the benefits of meeting the eligibility requirements?
If you meet the eligibility requirements, you can;
- Live and work in the US permanently.
- Bring your family members to live with you.
- Apply for US citizenship after a certain number of years.
- Access better education and job opportunities.
- Live in a safe and secure environment.
Meeting the eligibility requirements is just the first step in the process of getting a US Green Card. You’ll also need to go through the application and interview process, and wait for your application to be approved.
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Application Process
The application process for a US green card typically involves the following steps;
1. Determine Your Eligibility; Check if you meet the eligibility requirements.
2. File a Petition; Your US citizen or permanent resident family member or employer files a petition with US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
3. Wait for Processing; USCIS processes the petition and may request additional evidence.
4. Adjust Status or Consular Processing; If approved, you may adjust your status in the US or go through consular processing at a US embassy or consulate.
5. Attend an Interview; You may be required to attend an interview with a USCIS officer.
6. Receive Your Green Card; If approved, you will receive your US green card.
Application Forms and Fees
The following forms and fees are required for a US green card application;
1. Form I-485; Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status
2. Form I-130; Petition for Alien Relative
3. Form I-140; Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker
4. Form DS-260; Online Immigrant Visa and Alien Registration Application
5. Fees; Vary depending on the application type, but typically range from $300 to $1,000.
Here are simple explanations for each form;
1. Form I-485; Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status
This form is used to apply for a green card from within the United States. You’ll file this form if you’re already in the US and want to become a permanent resident. It’s like submitting an application to become a official US resident.
2. Form I-130; Petition for Alien Relative
This form is used by US citizens or permanent residents to sponsor their family members (spouse, children, parents, or siblings) for a green card. It’s like a referral letter that says, “Hey, I want my family member to come live with me in the US!”
3. Form I-140; Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker
This form is used by employers to sponsor foreign workers for a green card. It’s like a job offer letter that says, “We want to hire this person to work for us in the US!”
4. Form DS-260; Online Immigrant Visa and Alien Registration Application
This form is used for the final step of the green card process, which is called “consular processing”. It’s like a final application that you submit to the US embassy or consulate in your home country to get your green card.
5. Fees; These are the costs associated with submitting your application. Think of it like paying a processing fee for your application to be reviewed.
Remember, these forms and fees are required for a US green card application, and it’s important to fill them out correctly to avoid any delays or issues with your application!
Tips and Reminders
1. Seek Professional Help; Consult with an immigration attorney to ensure a smooth process.
2. Gather Required Documents; Make sure you have all necessary documents, including birth certificates, passports, and proof of income.
3. Be Patient; The process can take several months to several years, so be prepared to wait.
4. Keep Your Information Up-to-Date; Inform USCIS of any changes to your address or contact information.
Conclusion
Obtaining a US green card can be a complex and time-consuming process, but with the right guidance and preparation, it can be achieved. Remember to determine your eligibility, file the correct forms, and be patient during the process. Good luck on your journey to becoming a US permanent resident!
Resources
- US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)
- US Department of State
- National Immigration Law Center
- American Immigration Lawyers Association
Note; This guide is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. Consult with an immigration attorney for specific guidance on your situation.
