How to Apply for a Green Card in the United States

A U.S. Green Card, officially known as a Permanent Resident Card, allows a foreign national to live and work permanently in the United States. It is one of the most sought-after immigration documents in the world because it serves as a pathway to U.S. citizenship, stability, and access to numerous opportunities.

In 2025, the process of obtaining a Green Card has evolved with modernized application systems, digital documentation, and new eligibility rules. This comprehensive guide explains how to apply for a Green Card in the United States, the different types available, eligibility criteria, application steps, required documents, and key tips for approval.

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1. What Is a U.S. Green Card?

A Green Card grants lawful permanent residence in the United States. It provides the right to:

• Live and work anywhere in the U.S.
• Travel abroad and return to the U.S. freely.
• Sponsor eligible family members for immigration.
• Apply for U.S. citizenship after meeting residency requirements.

The Green Card is valid for 10 years and can be renewed indefinitely, as long as the holder maintains permanent residence.

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2. Major Ways to Get a Green Card

There are several categories through which individuals can apply for a Green Card. The eligibility depends on your background, family status, job, or other special circumstances.

2.1 Family-Based Green Card

This is one of the most common ways to obtain permanent residency.

Eligible Applicants:

• Spouse of a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.
• Unmarried children under 21 years of a U.S. citizen.
• Parents of U.S. citizens (age 21 or older).
• Siblings of U.S. citizens (in limited cases).

2.2 Employment-Based Green Card

For foreign nationals with job offers or exceptional skills.

Categories:

• EB-1: Priority workers, such as multinational executives, researchers, or individuals with extraordinary ability.
• EB-2: Professionals with advanced degrees or exceptional abilities.
• EB-3: Skilled workers, professionals, and unskilled workers with job offers.
• EB-4: Special immigrants, including religious workers.
• EB-5: Investors who invest $800,000 to $1,050,000 in U.S. businesses creating at least 10 jobs.

2.3 Diversity Visa (DV) Lottery Program

Also known as the Green Card Lottery, this program randomly selects applicants from countries with low immigration rates to the U.S. It is a free and popular option for many foreigners.

2.4 Refugee or Asylee Status

Individuals granted asylum or refugee status can apply for a Green Card one year after entering the U.S.

2.5 Other Categories

• Green Card through registry (for those who have lived continuously in the U.S. since before 1972).
• Special programs for Afghan or Iraqi nationals who worked with the U.S. government.

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3. Eligibility Requirements

Before applying, you must confirm that you meet the eligibility criteria for your specific Green Card category.

General Eligibility Includes:

1. Proof of qualifying family relationship, employment, or investment.
2. No serious criminal background.
3. Admissibility under U.S. immigration law.
4. Proper documentation and ability to support yourself financially.

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4. Step-by-Step Process to Apply for a Green Card

The exact process depends on whether you are inside or outside the United States at the time of applying.

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4.1 If You Are Inside the United States (Adjustment of Status)

You can apply to “adjust” your current visa status to that of a permanent resident.

Step 1: Determine Your Category

Choose the appropriate category (family, employment, investment, etc.) and confirm eligibility.

Step 2: File the Immigrant Petition

A family member or employer typically files a petition on your behalf:

• Form I-130 (Family-Based)
• Form I-140 (Employment-Based)
• Form I-526 (Investor-Based)

Step 3: Wait for Visa Availability

Each category has annual visa limits. Check the Visa Bulletin issued monthly by the U.S. Department of State.

Step 4: File Form I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status)

Once a visa becomes available, file Form I-485 with supporting documents and the required filing fee.

Step 5: Attend Biometrics Appointment

You will be scheduled for fingerprinting, photographs, and signature collection for security verification.

Step 6: Attend Green Card Interview

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will invite you for an interview.
You’ll need to present original documents, answer questions about your application, and confirm eligibility.

Step 7: Receive Your Green Card

If approved, USCIS will mail your Green Card to your U.S. address. The process typically takes 6–12 months after filing Form I-485.

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4.2 If You Are Outside the United States (Consular Processing)

If you are applying from abroad, the process involves coordination with your local U.S. Embassy or Consulate.

Step 1: File an Immigrant Petition

Your U.S.-based sponsor (family or employer) must file Form I-130, I-140, or I-526.

Step 2: Wait for Petition Approval

Once approved, the petition is sent to the National Visa Center (NVC).

Step 3: Submit Fees and Documents

You will receive instructions to submit visa fees and civil documents (birth certificate, police clearance, etc.) online via the Consular Electronic Application Center (CEAC).

Step 4: Attend Immigrant Visa Interview

You’ll be scheduled for an interview at your country’s U.S. Embassy or Consulate. Bring all original documents and your medical exam results.

Step 5: Receive Immigrant Visa

If approved, you will receive a visa packet to present to U.S. Customs when entering the United States.

Step 6: Pay USCIS Immigrant Fee

Before traveling, pay the USCIS Immigrant Fee online to activate your Green Card.

Step 7: Receive Green Card

Your physical Green Card will arrive by mail at your U.S. address within a few weeks after arrival.

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5. Required Documents for Green Card Application

The required documents vary depending on your category, but generally include:

1. Valid passport.
2. Birth certificate (translated into English, if necessary).
3. Marriage certificate (if applying through spouse).
4. Police clearance certificates.
5. Medical examination results (Form I-693).
6. Proof of financial support (Form I-864, Affidavit of Support).
7. Proof of lawful entry or immigration status (I-94 record).
8. Employment offer letter or investment documents (if applicable).
9. Recent photographs (passport-size).

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6. Green Card Application Fees (2025)

Form / Process	Filing Fee (USD)
Form I-130 (Family Petition)	$535
Form I-140 (Employment Petition)	$700
Form I-485 (Adjustment of Status)	$1,140 + $85 biometrics
Form I-526 (Investor Petition)	$3,675
USCIS Immigrant Fee (after visa approval)	$220

Note: Fees are subject to change based on USCIS policy updates.

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7. How Long Does It Take to Get a Green Card?

Processing times depend on the category, country, and USCIS workload.

Average Timelines (2025):

• Family-Based (Immediate Relative): 6–12 months.
• Family-Based (Other Categories): 1–10 years (depending on visa backlog).
• Employment-Based: 8–18 months.
• Diversity Lottery: 1–2 years.
• Investor (EB-5): 18–36 months.

Applicants from countries like India, China, Mexico, and the Philippines may face longer waiting times due to high demand.

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8. Common Reasons for Green Card Denial

Even qualified applicants can face denial for avoidable mistakes.

Common Reasons Include:

• Missing or incomplete forms.
• Lack of supporting evidence.
• Failing background or security checks.
• Medical inadmissibility (communicable diseases).
• Immigration violations (overstaying a visa).
• Misrepresentation or fraud.

Tip: Always double-check your forms and consult an immigration attorney if unsure about eligibility.

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9. Maintaining Your Green Card

After approval, maintaining permanent residency status is essential to avoid losing your Green Card.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Live primarily in the U.S. Extended absences (over 6 months) may raise questions about your residency.
2. File U.S. income taxes every year as a resident.
3. Report address changes to USCIS within 10 days using Form AR-11.
4. Avoid criminal activities that may lead to deportation.
5. Renew your Green Card every 10 years (Form I-90).

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10. Path to U.S. Citizenship

Once you hold a Green Card, you can apply for U.S. citizenship through naturalization after:

• 5 years of continuous residence (or 3 years if married to a U.S. citizen).
• Demonstrating good moral character.
• Passing the English and civics tests.

Becoming a U.S. citizen provides additional benefits, including the right to vote, hold a U.S. passport, and enjoy full protection under U.S. law.

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11. Tips to Increase Your Approval Chances

1. Submit a complete and accurate application. Errors or missing documents can cause delays.
2. Prepare for your interview. Be honest and confident; review your application before attending.
3. Keep copies of all documents. Always retain proof of submissions and receipts.
4. Consult an immigration attorney if your case involves complications or prior visa issues.
5. Monitor case status online at https://egov.uscis.gov.

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12. Green Card Renewal and Replacement

If your Green Card is lost, stolen, or expired, you can apply for a replacement using Form I-90 online or by mail.

Processing Time: 6–12 months
Renewal Fee: $540 (including biometrics)

You will receive a receipt notice that can serve as temporary proof of your status while waiting for a new card.

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13. Green Card Scams to Avoid

Unfortunately, many fake agencies promise guaranteed Green Cards. Always be cautious.

Warning Signs of Fraud:

• Promises of guaranteed approval.
• Requests for payment outside USCIS channels.
• Fake emails or websites using “.com” instead of “.gov.”

Tip: Always apply through official government websites like www.uscis.gov or consult licensed attorneys only.

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14. Benefits of Having a U.S. Green Card

• Permanent right to live and work in the U.S.
• Access to Social Security and Medicare.
• Freedom to start a business or invest in property.
• Easier travel in and out of the country.
• Ability to sponsor immediate family members.
• Pathway to full U.S. citizenship.

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Conclusion

Obtaining a Green Card in the United States in 2025 requires patience, preparation, and accuracy. Whether you apply through family, employment, investment, or the Diversity Visa program, understanding the process is the key to success.

Always file your application through official U.S. government platforms, maintain transparency, and follow immigration laws carefully. With the right approach and proper documentation, your goal of becoming a permanent resident of the United States can become a reality.