How to obtain permanent residency with a Green Card

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Do you want to obtain permanent residency with a Green Card, but don't know where to start? The Green Card is a document that gives you the freedom to live and work in the United States legally and permanently.

If you are interested in learning how to get a Green Card, we recommend that you continue reading this article. Here you will find detailed information on how to start the application process, learning about the steps and procedures that may vary depending on your particular situation.

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What is a Green Card?

The Green Card, also known as the Permanent Resident Card, is a legal identification document intended for foreigners living in the United States. With this document, individuals who do not have American citizenship can legally reside and work in the country.

This card contains information such as your name, personal details and photo, serving as proof of your immigration status as a lawful permanent resident (LPR). The Green Card is usually granted through a relative or employer.

The Green Card is valid for 10 years for permanent residents. However, if you are a conditional resident, the validity will be only 2 years. In addition, the card can be revoked if the person commits a crime.

Who can apply for a Green Card?

There are several ways to become a permanent resident of the United States, depending on the category under which you apply:

By a family member who is a US citizen or lawful permanent resident (LPR)

A U.S. citizen can apply for permanent residence for his/her parents, spouse, unmarried children, adult siblings, and also for his/her fiancé(e). This category also includes widows and widowers of U.S. citizens.

Similarly, Green Card holders can apply for permanent residency for their spouse and unmarried children. However, relatives such as cousins, uncles, aunts, and grandparents cannot apply.

For work

This modality benefits certain foreign workers, doctors and investors with work visas ranging from EB-1 to EB-3, depending on their qualifications.

Green Card Lottery

One of the most popular ways to obtain a Green Card is through the Diversity Visa Lottery. Every year, the United States offers citizens from countries with low immigration rates the opportunity to obtain a Green Card.

The list of countries eligible to participate in the lottery is reviewed annually, and some countries may be included or excluded each year.

Special immigrant

This category applies to religious workers, special immigrant minors, Afghan or Iraqi translators who have worked for the U.S. government, journalists, and members of international organizations.

By refugee or asylum seeker

If you entered the U.S. as a refugee or asylum seeker, you can apply for a Green Card one year after receiving permanent resident status.

Victim of abuse or crime

People who have been victims of specific crimes, who have suffered physical or mental abuse and have a nonimmigrant visa can apply for permanent residence.

By investment

If you have capital, you can opt for a Green Card through investment. This is an opportunity to reside in the United States and open your business, without having to wait long periods.

When opting for a Green Card as an investor, you do not need to:

How to get a Green Card: 7 main requirements

To obtain permanent residency in the United States, known as a Green Card, you must meet seven fundamental requirements:

  1. Being Eligible in an Immigration Category
    There are several categories of immigrants who may qualify for a Green Card. It is important to determine which category you fall into.
  2. Have an Application Approved
    Most people need to have an approved petition, either from an employer, a family member, or through the Immigrant Investment Program, before they can proceed with their application.
  3. Fill out the Application Form
    The form required for the application varies according to the immigration category the applicant falls into. It is essential to follow the correct instructions for filling it out.
  4. Pass a Medical Exam
    Applicants must complete a full medical examination and submit the results with their application.
  5. Have no criminal record
    The applicant is required to prove that he or she has no criminal record, which is a strict criterion for obtaining permanent residency.
  6. Prove Financial Self-Sufficiency
    It is necessary to demonstrate that the candidate has the financial means to support himself in the United States, without depending on government resources for his support.
  7. Attend a USCIS Interview
    The candidate will undergo an interview with a United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) officer, where their application will be reviewed and other questions may be asked to clarify details of the process.

Following these requirements carefully is essential to increase your chances of successfully obtaining permanent residency.

Documentation required to obtain a green card

Below, we list the requirements you must meet to obtain a Green Card and secure your residency in the United States. See the details:

These requirements are essential to maintaining permanent resident status in the United States.

How to get a Green Card or Permanent Residence Card

Here are the main steps to get a Green Card in the United States:

  1. Eligibility Check
    It is possible to apply for a Green Card based on kinship, employment, asylum, investment, visa lottery, among other categories.
  2. Request
    Once you have confirmed your eligibility, you must apply to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The process can be started directly on the official website: www.uscis.gov
  3. Interview and Exams
    If your application is accepted, you will be scheduled for an interview with an immigration officer who will review all the information you have provided. You will also undergo a medical examination and criminal background check.
  4. Approval
    If approved, you will receive your Green Card, confirming your permanent resident status.

How much does it cost to get a green card?

The process of obtaining a Green Card through family ties involves some costs. For those residing in the United States, the approximate cost is US$1,560, while for those residing abroad, the cost is around US$1,200.

It is important to remember that these values do not include the costs of the mandatory medical examination, which may vary depending on the professional or health institution chosen to perform the procedure.