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US Green Card Holder Roadmap

How to become an US Green Card Holder, phase by phase: what you do in each one, how long it takes, and the proof that shows you're done.

6 phases1–14 years or longer17 resources

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The road, phase by phase

  1. Phase 1: Choosing an Eligibility Pathway

    2–6 weeks

    Researching the main routes (family sponsorship, employment-based, diversity visa lottery, asylum/refugee adjustment) and determining which one you actually qualify for. Usually involves a consultation with an immigration attorney and identifying a sponsor or petitioner. Ends with a chosen category and a named petitioner or self-petition plan.

    You're done when you can show

    A written attorney assessment or email confirming your eligibility category and petitioner.

    Resources

  2. Phase 2: Securing the Qualifying Petition

    6–24 months

    Gathering evidence and getting the underlying petition filed, such as an I-130 by a relative, PERM labor certification plus I-140 by an employer, or an I-140/I-360 self-petition. You assemble relationship proof, credentials, job offers or achievement evidence. Ends when USCIS approves the petition.

    You're done when you can show

    USCIS approval notice (Form I-797) for the I-130, I-140 or equivalent petition.

    Resources

  3. Phase 3: Waiting for Priority Date

    0–10+ years

    Monitoring the monthly Visa Bulletin until your priority date becomes current, while maintaining lawful status and keeping documents up to date. Immediate relatives of US citizens skip this phase. Ends when your date is current for filing.

    You're done when you can show

    Screenshot of the Visa Bulletin showing your category's date is current for your priority date.

    Resources

  4. Phase 4: Filing for Green Card

    1–3 months

    Submitting either Form I-485 adjustment of status inside the US or the DS-260 consular application abroad, with civil documents, affidavit of support, police records and fees. Attend the biometrics appointment and complete the required medical exam. Ends with a complete, accepted application.

    You're done when you can show

    I-485 receipt notice or NVC 'documentarily qualified' confirmation.

    Resources

  5. Phase 5: Passing the Interview

    4–18 months

    Preparing for and attending the USCIS or consular interview, answering questions on eligibility and admissibility, and responding to any requests for evidence. Ends with approval or visa issuance and entry to the US.

    You're done when you can show

    USCIS approval notice or immigrant visa stamp with a CBP entry stamp.

    Resources

  6. Phase 6: Receiving and Maintaining Residency

    1–3 months

    Receiving the physical permanent resident card, getting an unrestricted Social Security card, and making the US your primary residence while filing taxes as a resident. If conditional (marriage under 2 years or EB-5), you file to remove conditions within the 90-day window before expiry.

    You're done when you can show

    Photo of your 10-year green card (or I-751/I-829 approval if conditional).

    Resources

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