Family-Based Green Cards

Family-based green cards are for relatives of U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents. These are the main categories:

  • Immediate Relatives: Includes spouses, unmarried children under 21, and parents of U.S. citizens.
    1. File Form I-130 to prove the family relationship.
    2. Once approved, if the relative is in the U.S., file Form I-485 to adjust status. If abroad, go through consular processing.
  • Other Family Members: Includes siblings of U.S. citizens and unmarried adult children of permanent residents.
    1. File Form I-130 and monitor the Visa Bulletin for current priority dates.
    2. Once eligible, file Form I-485 or complete consular processing abroad.

Investment-Based Green Cards (EB-5)

The EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program provides a pathway to a green card for individuals who invest in U.S. businesses that create jobs. Key steps include:

  • Invest a minimum of $1 million in a U.S. business, or $500,000 if in a targeted employment area (TEA).
  • The investment must create or preserve at least 10 full-time jobs for U.S. workers.
  • Submit Form I-526 to petition for the green card.
  • After approval, file Form I-485 to adjust status or go through consular processing if abroad.

Employment-Based Green Cards

Employment-based green cards are for skilled workers, professionals, and others with job offers or exceptional abilities. Key categories include:

  • EB-1: For individuals with extraordinary abilities, professors, researchers, or multinational executives.
    1. Prepare evidence of your qualifications, such as awards or leadership roles.
    2. File Form I-140.
    3. After approval, file Form I-485 or pursue consular processing.
  • EB-2: For individuals with advanced degrees or exceptional abilities.
    1. Obtain a labor certification unless you qualify for a National Interest Waiver.
    2. File Form I-140 with supporting documents.
    3. File Form I-485 after approval or complete consular processing abroad.
  • EB-3: For skilled workers and professionals.
    1. Secure a labor certification from your employer.
    2. Submit Form I-140 and await approval.
    3. File Form I-485 or follow consular procedures.

Diversity Visa Lottery

The Diversity Visa (DV) Lottery program is an annual initiative for individuals from countries with low immigration rates to the U.S. The process involves:

Asylum & Refugee Status

  • Asylum: If you were granted asylum in the U.S., you can apply for a green card after one year.
    1. File Form I-485 to adjust status.
  • Refugees: If you are a refugee, you can apply for a green card after one year of being in the U.S.
    1. File Form I-485 to adjust status.