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How to Get a Green Card

Federal & State Law Editorial TeamLast reviewed: 2025-12-08

A green card grants lawful permanent resident (LPR) status, allowing you to live and work permanently in the United States.

Main pathways:

  • Family-based — A U.S. citizen or permanent resident family member sponsors you. Categories include immediate relatives (spouse, parents, unmarried children under 21) and family preference categories.
  • Employment-based — Sponsored by a U.S. employer. Categories include priority workers (EB-1), professionals with advanced degrees (EB-2), skilled and unskilled workers (EB-3), and investors (EB-5, requiring a $1.05M+ investment).
  • Diversity Visa Lottery — 50,000 green cards annually for people from countries with low immigration rates. Random selection.
  • Refugee/Asylee — After one year of refugee or asylee status, you can apply for a green card.
  • Special programs — Violence Against Women Act (VAWA), Special Immigrant Juvenile Status (SIJS), U visa (crime victims), T visa (trafficking victims).

    • General process:

  • A petition is filed (I-130 for family, I-140 for employment).
  • Wait for a visa number to become available (wait times vary dramatically).
  • File for adjustment of status (I-485, if in the U.S.) or consular processing (if abroad).
  • Attend a biometrics appointment and interview.
  • Receive the green card.

    • Wait times. Immediate relatives of U.S. citizens have no wait. Other categories face backlogs ranging from months to 20+ years depending on country and category.

    Conditions. Green card holders must maintain continuous residence, file U.S. taxes, and register for Selective Service (males 18-25).

    This is legal information, not legal advice.

    When to Talk to a Lawyer
    • You are beginning the green card application process
    • Your petition was denied and you want to appeal
    • You have prior immigration violations that may affect eligibility
    Related Statutes & Laws
    • Immigration and Nationality Act (INA)
    • 8 U.S.C. § 1151 et seq.
    Related Guides

    This is legal information, not legal advice. Laws vary by jurisdiction and change frequently. Always verify current law with official sources and consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction for advice on your specific situation.