How to Get a Green Card in the USA: Timeline, Steps, and Eligibility

Introduction

A Green Card (Lawful Permanent Resident Card) is a document that grants foreign nationals the right to live and work permanently in the United States. A Green Card holder can freely cross U.S. borders, work for any employer, and apply for citizenship after a certain period.

This article provides a detailed overview of the eligibility categories, application steps, and processing times to obtain a Green Card.

Eligibility Categories for a Green Card

There are several main ways to obtain a Green Card in the U.S.:

1. Green Card Through Family

If you have close relatives in the U.S., they can act as your sponsor.

• Marriage to a U.S. citizen – the fastest way, takes from 12 to 24 months.

• Family relationships (parents, children, siblings of U.S. citizens) – waiting time from 1 to 10 years depending on the category.

• Marriage to a permanent resident (Green Card holder) – takes 2–3 years.

2. Green Card Through Employment

Work visas can lead to a Green Card after several years:

• EB-1 – for individuals with extraordinary abilities (scientists, athletes, artists). Processing time: 8–12 months.

• EB-2 – for highly skilled professionals. Processing time: 1–3 years.

• EB-3 – for skilled and unskilled workers. Processing time: 2–5 years.

3. Green Card Through Investment (EB-5)

Investors can obtain a Green Card by investing $800,000 (in targeted areas) or $1,050,000 in the U.S. economy, with the requirement to create 10 jobs. The process takes 2–5 years.

4. Green Card Through Asylum or Refugee Status

Individuals granted asylum in the U.S. can apply for a Green Card 1 year after asylum is granted. The process takes about 1–2 years.

5. Green Card Through the Lottery (Diversity Visa Lottery)

Each year, the U.S. offers about 55,000 Green Cards through a lottery to citizens of countries with low immigration rates to the U.S. The process from application to receiving the Green Card takes approximately 2 years.

6. Green Card Through Special Status

Certain categories of individuals may qualify for a Green Card through special programs:

• Victims of domestic violence (VAWA program).

• Victims of human trafficking and crimes (T and U visas).

• Special immigrants (religious workers, employees of international organizations).

Steps to Obtain a Green Card

1. Determine the Appropriate Category

First, identify the basis on which you are eligible to apply.

2. Submit a Petition (Form I-130, I-140, I-526, etc.)

Depending on the category, the sponsor (employer, relative, or the applicant) files a petition with USCIS.

3. Wait for Petition Approval

Processing times vary by category and may range from a few months to several years.

4. File Form DS-260 or I-485

• DS-260 – if the applicant is outside the U.S. (consular processing).

• I-485 – if the applicant is in the U.S. and adjusting status.

5. Undergo Medical Examination and Biometrics

You must complete a medical exam with a certified physician and provide fingerprints.

6. Attend an Interview at USCIS or a U.S. Consulate

The applicant will be interviewed and may be asked questions about their application, family status, or business.

7. Wait for a Decision and Receive Your Green Card

After approval, the applicant receives a temporary Green Card, followed by a permanent one.

Green Card Processing Times by Category

Conclusion

Obtaining a Green Card is a complex and multi-step process that requires careful document preparation and patience. It's important to understand the timelines, choose the most appropriate category, and follow all USCIS requirements.

If you have questions or need assistance with your Green Card application, our legal team is ready to support you every step of the way!