The green card process has multiple routes, countless forms, and differing timelines.
In this blog, we cover everything you should know before you start.
There are Different Ways to Get a Green Card
There are several immigration categories: family-based, employment-based, diversity lottery, humanitarian (such as refugee or asylee adjustment), and special immigrant programs for certain groups like religious workers.
Each pathway has specific rules and numerical limits. Before you apply, be sure you understand exactly which category fits your situation.
Family-Based Petitions Are Most Common
Family ties are the biggest driver of U.S. green cards.
U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents can sponsor close family members, including spouses, children, parents, and siblings. But here’s the update: not all family categories are treated equally.
Immediate relatives, such as spouses, parents, and unmarried minor children of citizens, don’t face annual visa limits. However, everyone else falls under preference categories and must wait for their visa number to become available.
You start this process by filing Form I-130.
Most Employment-Based Green Cards Start with PERM
Most employer-sponsored cases begin with PERM Labor Certification. This is when the employer proves no qualified U.S. worker is available for the role. Then, they can file Form I-140.
However, some don’t need PERM at all, like EB-1 or EB-2 National Interest Waiver applicants.
The Department of Labor processes PERM, so the backlogs can affect how long your whole green card process takes.
The Visa Bulletin Tells You When to Apply
If your green card category has a numerical limit, your wait depends on your priority date.
That’s the date your petition, such as I-130 or I-140, or PERM was filed. You can’t move forward until your date becomes current in the Visa Bulletin, which the Department of State releases every month.
So, if you’re wondering, “When can I finally apply for my green card?” the Visa Bulletin has your answer.
There are Two Application Routes
There are two main ways to finish the green card process:
- Adjustment of Status through Form I-485, if you’re already in the U.S. and eligible.
- Consular Processing if you’re applying from abroad through a U.S. embassy or consulate.
Conditional Green Cards Are Also a Thing
If you obtained your green card through marriage, but your marriage was less than two years old at the time of approval, your card is conditional, and it is valid for just two years.
To keep your permanent status, you must file Form I-751 to remove conditions within 90 days before your card expires. Miss that window and you will fall out of status.
Country Backlogs Are Increasing
U.S. immigration law caps green cards per country. That means that if too many people from one country apply, backlogs will rise.
India, China, Mexico, and the Philippines often face the longest waits.
So, if you’re from any of these countries, even if your case is perfect, your priority date still needs to move forward on the Visa Bulletin before USCIS can act. Although lawmakers are discussing reform, those per-country caps are still in place.
Processing Times Are Never the Same
Your friend might receive their green card in 10 months, and yours could take 18.
That’s because USCIS processing times depend on your form type, service center, and case details.
Use the official USCIS Processing Time Tool to track your case.
Immigration Policies Keep Changing
The rules today might not be the same as next year.
New DHS programs, like the family-stability process announced in 2024, created new options for some long-term spouses, but court challenges soon followed.
So, before acting on any immigration news you see online, verify it on official sites like USCIS or DHS. What is valid one month ago might be paused the next.
Additional Things to Note
Fees and forms change often.
Always check the latest version before you file. USCIS updates fees frequently. Sending the wrong payment or form can get your entire packet rejected.
Medical exams are compulsory.
Most applicants need a Form I-693 medical exam by a USCIS-approved health practitioner. Make sure it’s signed and sealed correctly. USCIS rejects incomplete forms.
Background checks are part of the procedure.
Criminal history, immigration violations, or misrepresentation can make you inadmissible. Some bars have waivers; others don’t.
Concurrent filings are allowed.
Sometimes you can file your I-130 and I-485 together if a visa number is available. This also lets you apply for a work permit (EAD) and travel permission (Advance Parole) while your case is pending.
Appeal options exist.
If USCIS denies your petition, you might have appeal or motion options, but appeal windows are short- so don’t delay.
Got a Question About the Green Card Process? Ask FREE at ImmigrationQuestion.com
Before embarking on your green card process, take the time to understand your category, watch the Visa Bulletin, and ensure your filings are error-free.
Get up-to-date insights on every step of your journey by visiting ImmigrationQuestion.com and accessing our free resources. Here, you can ask your immigration questions free and get answers from licensed immigration attorneys.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the green card process take?
It depends on your category. Some family or employment cases take about a year, but if you’re from a country with backlogs, it can take several years. The Visa Bulletin is your best way to track progress.
What’s the fastest way to get a green card?
Usually, through marriage to a U.S. citizen. Immediate relatives don’t face annual visa caps, so their process is faster than most other categories.
Can I stay in the U.S. while waiting for my green card?
Yes, if you’re eligible for Adjustment of Status. This also lets you apply for work and travel permits while your case is pending.
What happens if I file the wrong form or pay the wrong fee?
USCIS will reject your application. Always use the newest form version and check the current fee schedule before you send anything.
Do I need a lawyer to apply for a green card?
It isn’t compulsory, but it helps. Immigration law is technical, and a small mistake can cost time and money. A licensed attorney on the ImmigrationQuestion.com network can guide you.
Can I work while waiting for my green card?
While waiting, you can request an Employment Authorization Document (EAD). Once approved, you can start working while your green card is still being processed.
What if my green card application gets denied?
You may be able to appeal or file a motion to reopen or reconsider. You must act fast because the deadlines are short. Also, speak with an immigration lawyer right away.
Where can I find info on the green card process?
Always go to official sources, such as USCIS, the Department of State, or the U.S. embassy websites. For timely updates and guides that break down immigration terms and procedures, check out ImmigrationQuestion.com.
