How Does a U.S. Green Card Work?
A U.S. green card is a government-issued document which proves a persons’ immigration status. Only U.S. permanent residents are given green cards. With a green card, a person can live and work in the U.S. permanently.
Steps to Get a U.S. Green Card
1. The applicant determines the category under which they wish to apply for a green card and files the appropriate application with USCIS.
Each category has different eligibility criteria. The categories are:
- Green Card through Family: If sponsored by a family member, the family member must file Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, on behalf of the applicant.
- Green Card through Employment: If sponsored by an employer, the employer must file Form I-140, Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker, on behalf of the applicant.
- Green Card through Investment: If applying as an investor, the applicant must file Form I-526, Immigrant Petition by Alien Entrepreneur.
If the applicant lives in the U.S., he/she will also need to file Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status.
2. The applicant undergoes medical tests.
This is to take all necessary immunizations and get certified that they are free from any communicable disease. The medical exam must be done by a doctor approved by USCIS or a U.S. embassy.
3. The applicant attends a green card interview.
The applicant will be notified of the date and place of the interview by mail.
If living outside the U.S., the applicant visits the U.S. embassy or consulate to attend a visa interview. If eligible, they will be given a Visa Packet that must be opened only by the Customs and Border Protection officer at a U.S. Port of Entry.
If living in the U.S., the applicant will attend a green card interview at the nearest USCIS office.
4. The applicant receives a green card in the mail.
If applying from outside the U.S., the applicant receives their green card within 30 days of arrival in the U.S. by mail and they officially become a permanent resident.
