Who Qualifies For a US Green Card?
The United States offers many opportunities for people to come and live, work, and study in the country. A US green card, also known as a permanent resident card, allows non-US citizens to live and work in the United States permanently. In this article, we will discuss who qualifies for a US green card and the various ways to obtain one.
Family-Based Green Cards:
One of the most common ways to obtain a green card is through family sponsorship. US citizens and permanent residents may petition for certain family members to immigrate to the US and obtain a green card. Immediate relatives of US citizens, including spouses, children, and parents, are not subject to numerical limitations and can generally obtain a green card quickly. Other family members, such as adult children and siblings, are subject to annual quotas and may experience longer wait times.
Employment-Based Green Cards:
Individuals with certain job skills may be eligible for employment-based green cards. There are five employment-based preference categories, with the first category being reserved for individuals with extraordinary abilities in science, art, education, business, or athletics. The second category is for professionals holding advanced degrees and individuals with exceptional ability in their field. The third category is for skilled workers, professionals, and other workers. The fourth category is for certain special immigrants, including religious workers and retired employees of international organizations. The fifth category is for individuals who invest a substantial amount of money in a US business that creates jobs.
Refugees and Asylees:
Refugees and asylees are individuals who are fleeing persecution or the threat of persecution in their home country. Refugees must be referred to the US by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees or another designated entity, while asylees are individuals who are already in the US and apply for protection. Both refugees and asylees may apply for a green card one year after being granted refugee or asylee status.
Diversity Lottery:
The Diversity Visa Program, also known as the green card lottery, is a program that grants 50,000 green cards each year to individuals from countries with historically low rates of immigration to the US. The lottery is open to individuals who have at least a high school education or its equivalent, or who have two years of work experience in a qualifying occupation.
Obtaining a US green card is a lengthy and complex process, but for many individuals, it is the first step toward achieving the American dream. Whether through family sponsorship, employment-based sponsorship, refugee or asylee status, or the diversity lottery, there are many paths to obtaining a green card and becoming a permanent resident of the United States.
