Persons who are interested in moving to the United States of America on a permanent basis should take this page very seriously as it contains insightful content about the US PR. Carefully read through the information provided below to learn more about how you can obtain a US Permanent Residence also known as a Green Card.
Covid19 pandemic has really affected the pace of the process of application, although applications are on going and processed, but then the process would take more time to be completed.
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The US Green Cards/Permanent Residence
You will always notice that every year, many foreign nationals do apply for permanent residence in the US. When the application begins, you will have to complete a US permanent residence application, this is to prove that the holder is not an illegal resident.
There are so many ways to obtain a US permanent residence, but the two most common ways are:
- Family Sponsorship, and
- Employment-Based Green Cards
Other ways of securing permanent residence in USA include:
- Diversity Visa Program
- Refugee or Asylum Status
1.) Family-Based Permanent Residence
With the Family based permanent residence, families offer sponsorship to family members, and these family members are either immediate or first preference relatives to a US Citizen. Uniting with your family is important as it is the perfect opportunity for a US citizen to petition for their spouse, children, parents, grandparents, and sometimes siblings.
2.) Employment-Based Permanent Residence
This method of getting Permanent Residence in US is simply the best option for person that wants to settle in the United States based on their work experience and skills. Under this method, there are 5 categories which are also referred to as EB visas.
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3.) Diversity Visa Program
Every year, about 50,000 immigrants are invited through the Diversity Visa program. This immigrant would then have the opportunity to begin a new life in the US, and so If you are lucky, you may be chosen to apply for a Permanent Residence through the Diversity Lottery.
4.) Refugee or Asylum Status
This is yet another key pathway to gaining entrance into US. This pathway is limited to those persons who are experiencing life-threatening circumstances in their home country. Meanwhile, when they’re granted asylum, they are allowed to apply for a green card after a year of residence in the US.
US Permanent Resistance Eligibility
There is no way you will be qualified for a permanent residence if you’re not eligible for the card. So, to qualify for a PR you must be eligible under one of the categories that allow immigrants to become Permanent Residents.
After you must have searched and found the best category that fits your situation, then proceed to get information on eligibility requirements and how to apply through that category. You will find below the eligible categories as you read further.
How to Apply for a US Permanent Residence/Green Card
Applying for a US Permanent Residence varies, though, the actions you’re required to take in the process will depend on your situation. Expect to be asked two questions during your application process to become a Permanent Resident.
Permanent Residence Processing Times
US permanent residence processing time actually takes more time compared to other visas. Based on USCIS, an application for permanent residence (Form I-485) will take around 6 to 33 months to process. That’s quite a lengthy time.
See Also: USA Visa Lottery Application Form & How to Apply Online
What Documents Are Required?
The various documents required depend on the category of permanent residence you are applying for. Let’s take for instance, if you want to apply through family means, you will need your family to present evidence of support, and If you choose to apply via Employment, then you will need your employment evidence. Feel free to contact an immigration consultant to give you assistance on organizing your required documents.
Renew Your US Permanent Residence
Your lost or expiring US Green Card can be renewed or replaced. You will be required to complete form 1-90 with the USCIS. Note that a normal US Residence permit lasts up to 10 years before expiring. For a conditional Green card, it expires after 2 years meanwhile if you have a conditional Green card you can extend it to that of 10 years.
