How to Obtain a Green Card in the U.S.? Know Your Legal Options to Live and Work Without Restrictions

Viktor A. De Maio
Aug 5, 2025
4 min read

✍️ Introduction

Hello, I’m Viktor De Maio, an immigration attorney, and in this article, I want to help you understand something fundamental for your future in the U.S.: the legal pathways to obtain permanent residency, also known as a Green Card. 🌱📄

Obtaining a Green Card can change your life and the lives of your family. There are multiple paths to achieve it, but not all apply to every case. Here, I explain the main options and what you should consider to move forward successfully.

"Young woman smiling proudly while holding her U.S. Green Card, symbolizing legal permanent residency and new opportunities in the United States." — Generated by AI

🟩 What is a Green Card?

The Green Card is the document that certifies you as a Lawful Permanent Resident (LPR) in the United States. This status allows you to live, work, and study without restrictions, as well as opens the door to U.S. citizenship in the future.

The Green Card or permanent resident card allows you to:

Live, work, and study legally in the U.S.
Access certain federal benefits
Apply for U.S. citizenship after a period of time (3 or 5 years)

🛤️ Main Paths to Obtain a Green Card

🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Family Petition

This is one of the most common ways. A U.S. citizen or permanent resident can petition for their immediate family members, such as:

Spouse
Unmarried children
Parents (if the petitioner is a citizen over 21 years old)
Siblings (only if you are a citizen)

2. 💼 Employment Offer

A U.S. employer can sponsor you for an immigrant visa. There are different categories:

EB-1 and EB-2: for individuals with extraordinary abilities or advanced degree professionals.
EB-3: for skilled workers, professionals, and other workers.

3. 🕊️ Asylum or Refugee Status

If you have been persecuted or fear persecution due to your nationality, religion, political opinions, race, or social group, you may qualify for asylum. If approved, you can apply for residency after one year.

4. 🎰 Visa Lottery (Diversity Visa)

Each year, the U.S. government holds a lottery for people from countries with low immigration rates. If your country qualifies and you apply correctly, you could obtain a Green Card without a sponsor.

5. 💸 Investment (EB-5 Visa)

If you can invest at least $800,000 USD in a business that creates jobs in the U.S., you may qualify for a Green Card through investment.

6. 🛡️ Special Petitions

These options protect vulnerable individuals, such as:

Victims of domestic violence (VAWA)
Victims of certain crimes who assist law enforcement (U Visa)
Abandoned or abused minors (SIJS)

🤔 What Should You Consider Before Starting Your Green Card Application?

Before starting your process, evaluate the following:

Do you have any immigration or criminal records?
Have you been in the U.S. without legal status?
Do you have multiple applications or open cases?
What country are you from, and how long have you been in the U.S.?

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Can I apply for more than one option at the same time?

✅ Yes. You can have more than one case open, such as a family petition and asylum, but it is crucial to avoid legal conflicts and have expert advice.

Can I apply if I entered without a visa?

✅ Yes, in certain cases such as marriage to a U.S. citizen, VAWA, U Visa, DACA, or SIJS. The key is to analyze your immigration history to find the best option.

How long does it take to get a Green Card?

⏱️ It depends on the category and your country of origin. It can take from 6 months up to more than 10 years.

What happens if I miss my immigration appointment?

⚠️ Missing an appointment can have serious consequences. Always notify in advance or seek legal assistance to reschedule.

Can I lose my Green Card?

⚠️ Yes. For example, if you commit certain crimes or stay outside the U.S. for long periods without special permission.

Does the Green Card give me access to government benefits?

🩺 Yes, you can access certain public benefits, but some programs are limited for new residents.

After how long with a Green Card can I apply for citizenship?

Generally after 5 years. If you are married to a U.S. citizen, you may apply after 3 years, meeting certain requirements.

💬 Conclusion

Every immigration story is unique. Choosing the wrong path or making a mistake can put you at risk of deportation or delay your process for years. That’s why having reliable legal guidance is essential.