PERMANENT RESIDENT (GREEN CARD) STATUS

A lawful permanent resident is a foreign national who has been granted the privilege of permanently living and working in the United States. Unlike with nonimmigrants, once you become a lawful permanent resident (often called a “green card" holder), you are permitted to work in the United States for any employer you choose.

After permanent resident status is obtained, one may apply for U.S. citizenship after staying for a probationary period of five years (three years if one became a resident as a result of marriage to a U.S. citizen). Of course, there is no obligation to become a citizen. In fact, many immigrants never become U.S. citizens as they do not want to relinquish their foreign nationality as a result of obtaining U.S. citizenship.

THE THREE MOST COMMON WAYS TO PETITION FOR PERMANENT RESIDENCY (also known as immigrant status) are listed below:

FAMILY-BASED VISA SPONSORSHIP»

EMPLOYMENT-BASED VISA SPONSORSHIP»

DIVERSITY IMMIGRATION LOTTERY»

INVESTORS »

An attorney from our office will be happy to answer your questions regarding immigration to the United States. Contact our immigration lawyers to discuss your relative’s or your own situation.