The United States has various green card eligibility categories for all those interested in getting a green card or sponsoring a loved one.
Learn all about the eligibility of the listed categories on the USCIS website and how to apply for you and your loved ones. Begin your green card journey today!
A green card, also known as a permanent resident card, allows individuals to live and work permanently in The United States. The first step to getting your green card is filing an I-485 Form with the USCIS before submitting all the paperwork and paying the required fees. It is essential to be aware of the various green card eligibility categories. Depending on your eligibility, you may begin your application process and process to do the same for your family members - if they are eligible to apply too.
Categories
Green Card through Family
Immediate relatives of US citizens fall under this category, such as spouses, unmarried children under the age of 21, and parents of US citizens who are at least 21 years of age. Moreover, family-based preference categories also include unmarried and married sons or daughters of US citizens who are 21 years old or older and brothers and sisters of US citizens who are at least 21 years of age. Family members of lawful permanent residents are also eligible. So are fiancé(e) and their children. If you are a widow or widower who was married to a US citizen before they died, you also qualify for the above category. Victims of abuse, such as abused spouses, abused children, and abused parents of US citizens, can also apply.
Green Card through Employment
Applying as an immigrant worker is a means to attaining a green card through employment. There are three preferences (1) if you have extraordinary abilities in the sciences, arts, education, business, or athletics, or more (2) if you're a member of a profession that requires an advanced degree (3) a skilled worker occupying a job that requires minimum 2 years training, a professional, an unskilled worker occupying a job that requires less than 2 years training or experience. Physicians agreeing to work full-time in clinical practice also qualify. Finally, immigrant investors who invest at least $1,050,000 and create at least 10 full-time work positions for qualified employees.
Green Card as a Special Immigrant
Religious workers, special immigrant juveniles, and Afghanistan or Iraq nationals are eligible. International broadcasters also fall into this category. Employees of international organizations and their family members can also apply, as well as NATO-6 employees and their family members.
Green Card through Refugee and Asylee Status
Refugees and Asylum seekers who were granted asylum status or admitted as refugees at least one year ago are eligible.
Green Card for Human Trafficking and Crime Victims
Human trafficking and crime victims, if they meet certain criteria and have a specific visa, are eligible to apply.
Green Card for Victims of Abuse
Abused spouses and children of US citizens can apply for a green card too. However, there are particular requirements that determine their eligibility.
Green Card through Other Categories
The list of ‘Other Categories’ is extensive and can be accessed here, but it more or less includes Liberian nationals, those selected by the Department of State for the diversity visa lottery, and those born in the US to a foreign diplomat.
Green Card through Registry
If you have resided in the US since 01/01/1972, then you also may be permitted to register for a green card.
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