This article was last updated and fact checked on January 28, 2023 by Mani Karthik.
If you are looking to learn more about green cards, then you have come to the right place. This article will provide you with all the information you need to know about green cards, including what they are and how to obtain one.
The process of getting a green card can be long and complex, but it is possible to navigate with the right information. This step-by-step guide will help you understand the process and what you need to do to get a green card and learn everything about it.
In this article...
What is a green card?
A green card is an identification card that proves that a person is a legal permanent resident of the United States. The card allows the holder to live and work in the United States, and to bring family members who are also legal permanent residents.
How to get a green card?
In order to obtain a green card, one must be sponsored by a family member or employer who is a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident, and who files a petition on the individual’s behalf. The individual must also undergo an interview with a representative from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
Once the green card has been issued, it is valid for a period of five years. If the individual is ever removed from the United States, the green card will also be canceled.
How long does it take to get a green card?
The average processing time for a green card is about 10-13 months. The green card process and steps are mentioned below.
How to get a green card: A step-by-step guide
If you want to become a permanent resident of the United States, you will need to obtain a green card. First, you will need to determine if you are eligible for a green card.
1. Determine which category of Green Card you are eligible for.
There are three categories of green cards: immigrant, family-based, and employment-based.
Review the requirements for the category of Green Card you are eligible for.
2. Determine if you are a citizen of the United States.
If you are not a citizen of the United States, you will need to become a citizen before you can apply for a green card.
If you are a citizen of the United States, you will need to provide proof of your citizenship. This can be done by providing a copy of your US birth certificate, US passport, or US naturalization certificate.
3. Complete the necessary paperwork.
You will need to complete Form I-485, Application for a Green Card, and provide evidence of your eligibility. If you are not a citizen of the United States, you will need to become a citizen before you can apply for a green card.
4. Verify your eligibility for a green card.
You will need to provide proof of your identity, residence, and lawful immigration status. This can be done by providing a copy of your passport, visa, or another official document.
5. Complete the green card application form.
You will need to provide your name, date of birth, citizenship status, and other required information.
6. Submit your application to the appropriate US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) office.
You will need to provide copies of all required documentation.
What other kinds of green cards are there?
There are a few other types of green cards that are available for people who do not fit into the traditional categories. These include the investor green card, the religious worker green card, and the national interest waiver green card.
Investor Green Card.
An investor green card is a type of visa that allows an individual to live and work in the United States as a foreign national. This visa is available to individuals who invest a minimum amount of money in a new commercial enterprise in the United States.
Religious worker Green Card.
The religious worker green card is a United States Permanent Resident Card that allows certain religious workers to live and work permanently in the United States.
National interest waiver green card.
A national interest waiver is a type of waiver that is available to certain immigrants who are seeking to live and work in the United States. This waiver allows the immigrant to bypass the usual requirements for a green card, such as having a job offer or being sponsored by a family member. instead, the immigrant must demonstrate that their presence in the United States is in the national interest.
Green Card through Family.
A Green Card through family means that an individual has a close relative who is a U.S. citizen or permanent resident and who sponsors them for a Green Card.
Green Card through Employment.
A Green Card through employment is a process by which an employer-sponsored foreign national worker may obtain lawful permanent residence in the United States. The employer must first file a petition with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) on behalf of the employee. If the petition is approved, the employee may then apply for a Green Card.
Green Card as a Special Immigrant.
A Green Card as a Special Immigrant is a permanent residency card that is given to certain immigrants who meet specific criteria. This includes immigrants who have been employed by the U.S. government in an overseas capacity, religious workers, and Afghan and Iraqi translators.
Green Card through Refugee or Asylee Status.
If you are a refugee or asylee, you may be eligible for a Green Card. To get a Green Card through refugee or asylee status, you must:
- Be registered with the U.S. government as a refugee or asylee;
- Meet the requirements for refugee or asylee status, including having been persecuted in your home country;
- Not have committed a crime that would make you ineligible for refugee or asylee status.
Green Card for Human Trafficking and Crime Victims.
The Green Card for Human Trafficking and Crime Victims is a special immigrant status that allows certain victims of human trafficking and other crimes to live and work in the United States. To be eligible, victims must cooperate with law enforcement in the investigation or prosecution of the crime.
Green Card for Victims of Abuse.
A Green Card for Victims of Abuse is a permanent residency card that allows victims of abuse to live and work in the United States. To be eligible, victims must have suffered physical or sexual abuse that meets the definition of a crime of violence under U.S.
Can green card holders vote?
Yes, green card holders are able to vote in the United States.
Can my children get a green card if I have a green card?
If you are a lawful permanent resident of the United States, your children may be eligible to receive a green card as well. This is based on your family relationship to the child, and your status as a lawful permanent resident.
Can you go to Canada with a green card?
Yes, you can go to Canada with a green card.
How much does a green card cost?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the cost of a green card can vary depending on the individual’s circumstances. However, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website provides a Fee Calculator tool that can give you an estimate of the fees you may need to pay.
What does a green card look like?
A green card looks like a credit card. It has the holder’s name, photograph, and other information on the front, and the back is blank.
Here is a sample specimen of a Green Card.
Do green card holders have to immigrate?
No, green card holders are not required to immigrate. Green card holders are permanent residents of the United States and are free to live and work in the country indefinitely.
What is a green card interview like?
A green card interview is an interview conducted by a United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) officer to determine an immigrant’s eligibility for a green card. During the interview, the officer will ask the immigrants questions about their application and background.
The interview for a green card will vary depending on the country of origin and the specific circumstances of the applicant, but some common questions that may be asked include:
- Have you ever been arrested or imprisoned?
- Have you ever used false documents to get into the United States?
- Have you ever refused to answer a question during an immigration interview?
How to prepare for your green card interview
To prepare for your green card interview, you should gather all of the required documentation, including your passport, birth certificate, and proof of employment. You should also review the questions that are typically asked during green card interviews so that you can be prepared to answer them.
Do green card holders get unemployment benefits?
There is no easy answer when it comes to whether or not green card holders are eligible for unemployment benefits. While some may say that they are not, there are actually a number of factors that come into play. For example, if a green card holder has been working in the United States for a significant amount of time, they may very well be eligible for unemployment benefits.
However, if they have only worked here for a short period of time, they may not be eligible.
Do I need to change social security card after green card?
If you have a green card and want to change your name, you will need to get a new social security card. The process is relatively simple and can be done by mail or in person.
Can I stay more than 6 months outside us with green card?
You can stay outside the United States for up to 6 months without jeopardizing your green card status.
How long does a green card last?
A green card is issued to an immigrant who becomes a permanent resident of the United States. As a permanent resident, the immigrant has the right to live and work in the United States. A green card will usually last for 10 years, but it can be extended if the immigrant meets certain requirements.
Can you be unemployed on green card?
It is possible to be unemployed on a green card, but it is not recommended. If an individual is unemployed, they may have difficulty maintaining their status and could eventually be deported.
Is a green card holder a US citizen?
A green card holder is a permanent resident of the United States. Green card holders are granted certain rights, including the right to live and work in the United States permanently. However, green card holders are not US citizens.
Do green card holders get social security?
Yes, green card holders are eligible for social security benefits.
Do green card holders need visa for Mexico?
No, green card holders do not need a visa to enter Mexico.
Are green card holders eligible for Medicare?
Yes, green card holders are eligible for Medicare.
How much do you need to invest in us to get a green card?
If you are interested in obtaining a green card through investment, you will need to invest a minimum of $500,000. This investment can be in the form of cash, property, or a business venture.