Main Pathways to a U.S. Green Card (Lawful Permanent Residence)
There are several primary ways to become a Lawful Permanent Resident of the United States, commonly known as obtaining a Green Card. These pathways fall into four main categories:
🟦 1. Family-Based Green Cards
For individuals with close family ties to U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents.
- Immediate Relatives of U.S. Citizens:
- Spouses
- Unmarried children under 21
- Parents of adult U.S. citizens (21 or older)
- Other Eligible Relatives:
- Unmarried sons and daughters (21+) of U.S. citizens
- Married children of U.S. citizens
- Siblings of U.S. citizens
- Spouses and unmarried children of Green Card holders (LPRs)
🟩 2. Employment-Based Green Cards
For foreign nationals based on their job skills, qualifications, or job offers in the U.S.
- Priority Workers (EB-1):
- Individuals with extraordinary ability
- Outstanding professors or researchers
- Multinational managers and executives
- Professionals with Advanced Degrees or Exceptional Ability (EB-2):
- May include National Interest Waiver (NIW) cases
- Skilled Workers, Professionals, and Other Workers (EB-3)
- Special Immigrants (EB-4):
- Certain religious workers
- Specific international organization employees
- Other special categories
- Investors (EB-5):
- Immigrant investors creating U.S. jobs through qualifying business investments
🟨 3. Diversity Visa Lottery (DV Lottery)
For nationals of countries with historically low rates of immigration to the U.S.
Selected applicants are chosen randomly each year in the Diversity Immigrant Visa Program.
🟥 4. Humanitarian-Based Green Cards
For individuals seeking protection or refuge in the U.S. due to harm or fear of persecution.
- Asylees and Refugees
- Victims of trafficking (T visas)
- Victims of crime (U visas)
- Certain individuals under humanitarian programs
🔍 Need Help Determining Your Best Path?
Each Green Card category has specific eligibility requirements and application processes. An immigration attorney can help determine the most appropriate strategy based on your personal situation.
I can assist you with your application for a Greencard, and fully inform you if and how you might qualify for this very important immigration benefit. DO NOT go it alone! CONTACT ME TODAY!
Last Revision: March 2025.