How do I Apply for a Green Card?

For those who want to know how to apply for a Green Card the best advice would be to get started on the application process right away. The process can take a little time so it’s best not to wait more than a day or two at the most. It may be unwise to wait even that long.

A Green Card, as it is commonly known, is officially a Permanent Resident Card. Individuals who want to show permanent residence in the United States and work there for the long run need this document. In recent years there has been a lot of discussion about illegal immigrants and issues related to coming to the United States from another country. A Green Card can eliminate the problems and questions associated with this issue.

How to Apply

Instructions from the Web site for the agency that issues the cards advises individuals that there are several ways to apply. Some people can qualify for a Green Card based on their employment status. Others qualify because a blood relative is already a legal resident of the U.S.

Some application processes move through the system more quickly than others so it is important to understand which is best for your situation. People who seek a Green Card through employment must first possess a valid work visa (ask about H-1B Visa when applying for this). The hiring company or employer must sponsor the applicant.

What Comes With Green Card?

Not only do holders of this card have the right to live permanently in the U.S. and have the right to work in this country, they may also travel outside the United States for a specified length of time. Green Card holders will also have the opportunity to apply for citizenship in the U.S. after possessing the card for several years.

Green Card holders also have the chance to assist other family members in their efforts to get a card. This applies to a spouse and children under the age of 21 who are not married.

Get the Instructions

Perhaps the best way to get all the information you need to apply for a Green Card is to visit www.usimmigrationsupport.org/greencard.html. The cost of the process is clearly stated on this site as $49.95. A detailed instruction booklet called the Green Card Application Guide is available from the agency.

This guide includes instructions on how to get a card:
• Through employment
• Through adoption
• Through marriage
• Through a relative
• Special conditions such as refugee or asylum applications
Instructions are included on how to enter the Green Card lottery and how the conditional and permanent cards differ. It is important to read this guide carefully or have someone help you with the information. You will be able to learn which personal documents are necessary to complete the application process.

Applications can be completed online when the process is started through the Green Card lottery. To repeat: Start the process immediately.