How Long Does it Take to Get a Green Card?
If you are not born in the USA, getting a green card can be a crucial step toward becoming a lawful permanent resident in the United States. For many immigrants, getting a green card opens the door to new opportunities and stability. However, understanding how long it takes to get a green card can be confusing, as various factors influence the timeline.
At Cheves Briceno, we help clients obtain green cards as part of our daily immigration practice. With offices in Braselton, Columbus, and Peachtree Corners, GA, we help clients navigate the complexities of the green card process, providing clarity and guidance. In this blog, we’ll explore what a green card is, the process for obtaining one, and the factors that can affect how long it takes.
What is a Green Card?
A green card is an official document issued by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) that grants foreign nationals lawful permanent residency. With a green card, individuals can live and work in the United States indefinitely, with the option to eventually apply for U.S. citizenship.
Under U.S. federal law, specifically the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA), various categories of individuals are eligible for green cards. These categories include family-sponsored immigrants, employment-based immigrants, refugees, and others. One of the most common ways people obtain a green card is through family sponsorship, such as a green card from marriage.
The Green Card Process
The process of applying for a green card can be lengthy and involves several stages. Here’s a general overview of the steps involved:
- Determine Eligibility: The first step is to determine if you qualify for a green card under any of the categories outlined by the INA. This may include a green card from marriage, employment-based sponsorship, or other eligibility categories.
- File an Immigrant Petition: Most green card applicants must have an immigrant petition filed on their behalf. For example, a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident spouse would file Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, to start the process of obtaining a green card from marriage.
- Adjustment of Status or Consular Processing: If the applicant is already in the U.S., they can file Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, to change their status to a lawful permanent resident. If the applicant is outside the U.S., they will undergo consular processing at a U.S. embassy or consulate in their home country.
- Biometrics and Interviews: The applicant will be required to attend a biometrics appointment to provide fingerprints, a photograph, and a signature. An interview with USCIS or at a consulate may also be required.
- Receive a Decision: Once all forms are submitted and interviews completed, USCIS will make a decision on the application. If approved, the individual will receive their green card.
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Factors that Influence How Long it Takes to Get a Green Card
Several factors can impact the time it takes to get a green card, and applicants should be prepared for possible delays:
- Category of Application: Some green card categories, such as family-sponsored green cards or employment-based green cards, have different processing times. A green card from marriage, for example, may take less time if the spouse is a U.S. citizen compared to a lawful permanent resident.
- USCIS Processing Times: Processing times vary depending on USCIS workload, the number of applications received, and backlogs. For instance, Form I-130 processing can take several months, while the wait for Form I-485 approval might extend to over a year in some cases.
- Country of Origin: Green card applicants from certain countries with high demand, such as India or Mexico, may face longer waiting periods due to per-country visa caps. This is less common for green card applications through marriage, as immediate relatives of U.S. citizens generally aren’t subject to these limits.
- Completeness and Accuracy of Application: Errors or omissions on your application can lead to delays or even denials. Incomplete forms, missing documents, or issues with financial sponsorship can all slow down the process.
- Background Checks and Waivers: If the applicant has a criminal record or prior immigration violations, they may need to apply for a waiver, which can significantly lengthen the green card timeline.
How Cheves Briceno Green Card Lawyers Can Help
At Cheves Briceno, we have helped hundreds of recipients get a green card, and as a firm with staff who were once from another country, we understand the stress and uncertainty that can come with waiting for a green card. Whether you’re applying for a green card from marriage or another eligibility category, our experienced immigration lawyers can guide you through the process and help you avoid costly delays.
If you have questions about your eligibility, need help with a pending application, or have encountered issues with a denial, our team is here to assist you. Don’t navigate the green card process alone—let us provide the expertise you need to secure your future in the United States.
Contact Cheves Briceno today to work with the best green card lawyers in Braselton, Columbus, and Peachtree Corners, GA. We’re dedicated to helping you achieve your green card goals efficiently and successfully.
