Becoming a lawful permanent resident commonly known as a green card holder is one of the most important milestones in your U.S. immigration journey. A green card gives you the right to live, work, and build your future in the United States permanently.
At Ranchod Law Group, we help clients across California and nationwide understand their green card options, prepare strong applications, and avoid costly mistakes. In this guide, we explain how to apply for a green card, who qualifies, and what to expect during the process.
WHAT IS A GREEN CARD?
A green card (Form I-551) is proof of lawful permanent residency in the United States. It allows you to live and work indefinitely and eventually apply for U.S. citizenship through naturalization.
Green cards can be obtained through various categories, including family relationships, employment, humanitarian programs, or special immigration laws.
PATHWAYS TO A GREEN CARD
1. Family-Based Green Card
If you are a spouse, child, or parent of a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, you may qualify for a family-based green card. Immediate relatives of U.S. citizens—such as spouses and parents—generally receive faster processing.
2. Employment-Based Green Card
Professionals with specialized skills or advanced degrees may qualify through employer sponsorship. Common categories include:
- EB-1: Extraordinary ability or multinational executives.
- EB-2: Professionals with advanced degrees or National Interest Waivers.
- EB-3: Skilled or professional workers.
3. Humanitarian Green Cards
Individuals granted asylum, refugee status, or relief under VAWA (Violence Against Women Act) or U Visa/T Visa programs may qualify for permanent residency.
4. Diversity Visa (DV) Lottery
Each year, up to 55,000 visas are granted through the Diversity Visa program to individuals from countries with historically low immigration rates to the U.S.
5. Special Immigration Categories
Some individuals qualify under programs such as 245(i), which allows certain undocumented immigrants to apply for a green card if they were beneficiaries of petitions filed before April 30, 2001.
HOW TO APPLY FOR A GREEN CARD
The application process depends on whether you are inside or outside the United States.
If you are in the U.S.:
You can apply through adjustment of status by filing Form I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status).
If you are outside the U.S.:
You must apply through consular processing at a U.S. embassy or consulate in your home country.
You will also need:
- Proof of eligibility (family relationship, employment offer, etc.).
- Medical examination by a USCIS-approved physician.
- Affidavit of Support (Form I-864) from your sponsor.
- Government filing fees and biometrics.
HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE?
Processing times vary by category and location. Some family-based petitions take less than a year, while others may take several years due to visa backlogs. Employment-based and humanitarian green cards also differ in processing timelines.
Our attorneys at Ranchod Law Group monitor your case closely, respond to USCIS requests, and ensure no delays occur due to missing documentation.
COMMON REASONS FOR DENIAL
- Missing or incorrect forms.
- Insufficient evidence of relationship or employment.
- Immigration violations or prior unlawful presence.
- Criminal history or inadmissibility issues.
We help clients address potential obstacles before filing—whether through waivers, legal arguments, or additional documentation—to give every case the highest chance of success.
LIFE AFTER GETTING YOUR GREEN CARD
Once approved, you can live and work anywhere in the United States. You’ll also have access to public benefits, education opportunities, and the ability to travel abroad more freely.
After five years (or three years if married to a U.S. citizen), you can apply for citizenship through naturalization.
WHY CHOOSE RANCHOD LAW GROUP
At Ranchod Law Group, we believe your immigration journey deserves personal attention and professional excellence. Whether you’re applying for a family-based, employment-based, or humanitarian green card, we guide you from start to finish with clarity and compassion.
Our mission is simple: to help you and your loved ones achieve stability, opportunity, and peace of mind in the United States.
CONCLUSION
Applying for a green card is a life-changing step,and with the right legal guidance, it can be a smooth and successful process.
If you’re ready to start your green card journey, contact Ranchod Law Group today. Our experienced immigration attorneys will help you understand your options, prepare your application, and achieve your goal of permanent residency.