Types Of Green Cards

Different Types of Green Cards

There are several pathways to obtaining a green card in the U.S. These include family-based immigration, employment-based immigration, refugee and asylum status, and more. Let’s take a closer look:

1. Family-Based Green Cards

Family members of U.S. citizens and permanent residents can apply for a green card. The two main types are:

• Immediate Relatives:
  • Spouses of U.S. citizens
  • Unmarried children under 21
  • Parents (if the U.S. citizen is 21 or older)
• Family Preference:
  • Unmarried children 21 and older
  • Married children of U.S. citizens
  • Siblings of U.S. citizens (if the citizen is 21 or older)
  • Spouses and unmarried children of green card holders

Example: A U.S. citizen can sponsor their spouse for a green card. This process is quicker since there’s no limit to the number of visas available for immediate relatives.

2. Employment-Based Green Cards

If you have a job offer in the U.S., you may qualify for a green card through your employer. Categories include:

• Extraordinary ability workers (in fields like science, arts, or business)
• Outstanding professors and researchers
• Multinational managers or executives
• Skilled workers (e.g., nurses, engineers)
• Investors (for those investing a significant amount in the U.S.)

Example: A software engineer with a job offer in the U.S. could apply for an employment-based green card. This requires a petition from the employer.

3. Refugee and Asylum Seekers

If you are a refugee or asylee, you can apply for a green card after living in the U.S. for one year.

Example: A refugee who fled their home country due to war or persecution and has been in the U.S. for 12 months can apply for a green card.

4. Green Cards for Victims of Human Trafficking or Crime

Victims of human trafficking or certain crimes can apply for a green card if they hold a T or U visa.

Example: A victim of human trafficking who holds a T visa can apply for permanent residency after meeting certain criteria.

5. Special Immigrant Visas

Certain people, such as foreign nationals who worked for the U.S. government in Iraq or Afghanistan, can apply for a green card through a special immigrant visa.

Example: An Afghan translator who worked with the U.S. military could qualify for a special immigrant visa.

Benefits of Having a Green Card

• Pathway to Citizenship: After 3-5 years, green card holders can apply for U.S. citizenship.
• Family Reunification: Green card holders can sponsor certain family members to join them in the U.S.
• Legal Protection: Green card holders are protected by U.S. laws and have the right to work and live freely in the U.S.
• Eligibility for Benefits: Green card holders can apply for social security benefits, education assistance, and more.