How Long Does It Take to Get a Green Card?

Obtaining a green card is a major milestone for families seeking to live permanently in the United States. It offers security, the ability to work, and a path to citizenship. However, one of the most common questions people ask is: how long does it take to get a green card?

The answer varies greatly depending on the type of green card you’re applying for and other factors. Here’s more about the various timelines and factors involved in the green card process to give you a clearer understanding.

What Factors Affect Processing Time?

The processing time for a green card isn’t one-size-fits-all. A number of factors play a role in how long the process takes, such as the country of origin and type of application.

In addition, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) backlog levels can slow down processing, as well as security clearances, especially if there are any discrepancies in an applicant’s history.

What Are the Different Types of Green Cards?

The time it takes to get a green card can differ based on the category under which you’re applying. Each type has its own process and timeline. The most common types of green cards are:

• Family-Based Green Cards for individuals with family members who are U.S. citizens or permanent residents.
• Employment-Based Green Cards for workers sponsored by a U.S. employer.
• Diversity Lottery Green Cards issued through a random selection process to individuals from countries with historically low immigration rates to the U.S.

Processing Times for Family-Based Green Cards

Family-based green cards can be divided into two main categories: immediate relatives and preference relatives.

1. Immediate Relatives: These are spouses, unmarried children under 21, and parents of U.S. citizens. The wait time for this category is usually the shortest, often taking 6 to 12 months.
2. Preference Relatives: These include more distant family members like adult children and siblings of U.S. citizens or permanent residents. The timeline for these applications can stretch from several months to over a decade, depending on the applicant’s country of origin and visa availability.

Additionally, whether the sponsor is a U.S. citizen or a green card holder can significantly affect how fast the application is processed.

Employment-Based Green Card Timelines

Employment-based green cards also follow a preference system, which includes categories such as:

• EB-1: For priority workers like multinational executives or individuals with extraordinary ability. These green cards typically have a faster processing time, usually eight months to 2 years.
• EB-2: For individuals with advanced degrees or exceptional ability. This process can take 18 months or longer, depending on the applicant’s country and labor certification.
• EB-3: For skilled workers and professionals. The timeline for this category is longer, often one to three years, with even more delays for applicants from countries like India and China.

In many cases, employment-based applicants must first complete the permanent labor certification process, which can take a year or more on its own.

Diversity Visa Timeline

For those lucky enough to be selected for the diversity visa program, results are typically announced in early May each year. After selection, winners must submit a green card application within a specific timeframe.

The lottery still requires going through standard background checks and interviews. From selection to receiving the green card, the process usually takes one to two years.

How to Speed Up the Green Card Process

To help expedite the green card process, you should hire an experienced immigration attorney who can ensure that your application is properly prepared and submitted.

Additionally, you should respond promptly to any requests for additional information or documentation from USCIS. In some cases, it may be possible to explore alternative green card options, such as seeking a temporary work visa while waiting for a family-based or employment-based green card.

Common Delays in the Green Card Process

There are several reasons your green card process may take longer than expected:

• USCIS may request additional documentation, which can slow down the process if not responded to promptly.
• Mistakes in filling out forms can lead to delays, as corrections or resubmissions may be required.
• If an applicant’s background check raises concerns, additional time may be needed to resolve the issues.

Being aware of these potential delays can help applicants stay on top of the process and avoid unnecessary setbacks.

How to Check Your Green Card Application Status

To stay informed about where your green card application stands, you can check the USCIS website using your receipt number to track your case status. Checking your status regularly ensures you stay updated and can respond quickly to any requests from USCIS.

Maintaining Status During the Green Card Process

During the green card application process you must maintain valid immigration status. This may involve extending or changing your current visa or status, such as a temporary work visa or student visa. Failure to maintain valid status can jeopardize the green card application and potentially lead to deportation or other adverse consequences.

Need Help Getting a Green Card? Call American Immigration Law Group

Navigating the green card process on your own can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. The experienced immigration attorneys at American Immigration Law Group are here to help guide you every step of the way, ensuring that your application is completed correctly and submitted on time.

Contact us today or call 314-416-8000 to schedule a consultation with a green card lawyer and take the first step toward securing your family’s future in the United States.