A Green Card, officially referred to as a Permanent Resident Card, is a crucial document issued by the U.S. government that grants individuals the right to live and work permanently in the United States. Holding a Green Card also opens up the path to U.S. citizenship after a certain period—typically 3 to 5 years. This guide will walk you through the Green Card process, the different types, costs, eligibility, and the step-by-step procedure to apply.
What Is a Green Card?
A Green Card is a status that allows you to live and work in the United States for an indefinite period. This permanent residency also gives you a chance to apply for U.S. citizenship, provided you meet certain conditions. While the Green Card gives you many benefits, it’s important to note that it’s not the same as a visa, which has temporary limitations. You can find more about the differences between a Green Card and a visa in our detailed guide on visas vs. Green Cards.
Green Card Application: How Do You Apply?
The Green Card application process varies depending on whether you are applying from inside or outside the United States. There are two primary forms used for this application:
- Form I-485 (Application to Adjust Status) – Used for individuals who are already in the U.S. on a temporary visa, or those applying for family or employment-based Green Cards while residing in the U.S.
- Form DS-260 (Immigrant Visa Electronic Application) – Used for individuals applying for a Green Card from abroad, often through family sponsorship or employment.
Not sure which form to use? Take our free assessment to get a personalized immigration plan based on your situation.
Green Card Timeline: How Long Does it Take to Get a Green Card?
The time it takes to receive your Green Card can range from a few months to several years, depending on your application type and whether you’re applying from inside or outside the U.S.
- Inside the U.S.: For immediate family members of U.S. citizens, the process typically takes about 10 to 23 months. For others, such as spouses of Green Card holders or employment-based applicants, the wait can be longer, often exceeding two years.
- Outside the U.S.: If you’re applying from abroad, spouses of U.S. citizens can expect to wait between 11.4 to 15 months. Other applicants might experience significantly longer wait times due to country-specific quotas and the Green Card caps.
Green Card Costs: How Much Does a Green Card Cost?
The cost of applying for a Green Card depends on the type of application:
- Family-based Green Card: The government filing fee for applicants within the U.S. is approximately $3,005. If you are applying from outside the U.S., the fee is about $1,340. This does not include other costs, such as medical exams.
- For other Green Card categories, you’ll need to check specific fees on the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website.
Green Card Categories: What Are the Types of Green Cards?
The U.S. government offers various types of Green Cards, each with its own set of requirements. The most common types include:
- Family-Based Green Card: For family members of U.S. citizens and Green Card holders.
- Employment-Based Green Card: For workers in specific job categories.
- Humanitarian Green Cards: For refugees, asylees, or victims of human trafficking.
- Diversity Lottery Green Card: For individuals from countries with low immigration rates to the U.S.
- Longtime-Resident Green Card: For individuals who have lived in the U.S. since January 1, 1972.
How to Get a Green Card: The Step-by-Step Process
While the Green Card application process may vary based on your situation, here’s a general outline of the steps:
- File a Petition: A family member, employer, or sometimes you (in specific cases) will need to file a petition on your behalf.
- Submit the Green Card Application: After the petition is approved and a visa is available, submit the Green Card application to USCIS or apply for a visa at the U.S. Department of State.
- Biometrics Appointment: You’ll be asked to provide fingerprints, photos, and a signature.
- Interview: Attend an interview with immigration officials, where you’ll answer questions about your background and eligibility.
- Decision: After your interview and application review, USCIS will make a decision on your Green Card application.
This entire process may take several months to several years, depending on your specific situation and visa category.
Types of Green Cards Explained
Let’s break down the different types of Green Cards and how you can qualify for each:
- Family-Based Green Cards: These are for immediate relatives of U.S. citizens and current Green Card holders. The most common family-based Green Cards include those for spouses, children, and parents of U.S. citizens. Extended family members such as siblings and cousins generally do not qualify unless they have closer relatives who are U.S. citizens or Green Card holders.
- Employment-Based Green Cards: If you’re a worker in a specific field such as arts, sciences, or business, you might qualify for an employment-based Green Card. There are several subcategories, such as EB-1 for extraordinary abilities, EB-2 for professionals with advanced degrees, and EB-5 for investors.
- Humanitarian Green Cards: These Green Cards are issued to refugees, asylees, and certain crime victims who seek protection in the U.S. Victims of human trafficking, domestic violence, or serious crimes may also be eligible for this type of Green Card.
- Diversity Lottery Green Card: Each year, the U.S. government runs the Diversity Visa Lottery, offering up to 50,000 Green Cards to individuals from countries with low immigration rates to the U.S.
- Longtime-Resident Green Card: If you’ve lived in the U.S. since before January 1, 1972, you may qualify for a special Green Card under the registry process.
FAQs About Green Cards
- Who Can Apply for a Green Card? Anyone who qualifies under one of the categories (family-based, employment-based, humanitarian, etc.) can apply for a Green Card. Each category has its own eligibility criteria.
- What Is the Cost of a Green Card? The cost varies, but a typical family-based Green Card application costs around $3,005 for those inside the U.S. and $1,340 for those applying from abroad.
- How Long After Getting a Green Card Can I Apply for Citizenship? Typically, you can apply for U.S. citizenship after holding your Green Card for 5 years, or 3 years if you’re married to a U.S. citizen.
- What Happens After I Apply for a Green Card? Once you submit your application, you’ll need to wait for a decision. This could take several months or even years, depending on your application type.
Why Choose Law and Visas for Green Card Assistance?
The process of applying for a Green Card can be complex and time-consuming. At Law and Visas, we provide expert guidance to help simplify the process. Whether you need help determining your eligibility, filling out forms, or preparing for your immigration interview, our team of professionals is here to assist you every step of the way. Our services are tailored to your specific needs, making the immigration journey smoother and more efficient.
Obtaining a Green Card is an exciting step toward a new life in the U.S. By understanding the different types of Green Cards, the application process, and the associated costs, you can confidently navigate the path to U.S. permanent residency. Whether you’re applying for a family-based Green Card, an employment-based Green Card, or through another category, professional assistance from Law and Visas can ensure you meet all the requirements and maximize your chances of approval. Start your Green Card application today with expert guidance tailored to your unique needs!
