A Green Card, also known as a Permanent Resident Card, allows individuals to live and work permanently in the United States. For UK citizens interested in moving to the US, obtaining a Green Card can be a complex and time-consuming process. In this article, we will guide you through the various steps involved in applying for a Green Card as a UK citizen.
Step 1: Determine your eligibility
The first step in obtaining a Green Card is determining your eligibility. There are several ways that UK citizens can qualify for a Green Card:
Family sponsorship: If you have a close family member who is a US citizen or Green Card holder, they may be able to sponsor you for a Green Card.
Employment-based immigration: If you have a job offer from a US employer, you may be able to obtain a Green Card through employment-based immigration.
Investment: If you are willing to invest a significant amount of money in the US, you may be able to obtain a Green Card through the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program.
Diversity visa lottery: The US government runs an annual Diversity Visa Lottery, which awards Green Cards to individuals from countries with historically low rates of immigration to the US.
Refugee or Asylum status: If you have been granted refugee or asylum status in the US, you may be able to apply for a Green Card after one year.
It is important to note that each of these options has specific eligibility criteria and requirements, so it is essential to research thoroughly before beginning the application process.
Step 2: File a petition or application
Once you have determined your eligibility for a Green Card, the next step is to file a petition or application with the appropriate US government agency. The specific agency you will need to apply to depends on the type of Green Card you are applying for.
Family sponsorship:
If you are being sponsored by a family member, they will need to file an I-130 Petition for Alien Relative with the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
Employment-based immigration:
If you are obtaining a Green Card through employment-based immigration, your employer will need to file an I-140 Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker with the USCIS.
Investment:
If you are applying for a Green Card through the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program, you will need to file an I-526 Immigrant Petition by Alien Entrepreneur with the USCIS.
Diversity visa lottery:
If you are applying for a Green Card through the Diversity Visa Lottery, you will need to submit an application during the annual registration period. The application process is entirely online and free of charge.
Refugee or Asylum status:
If you have been granted refugee or asylum status in the US, you may be able to apply for a Green Card after one year by filing an I-485 Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status with the USCIS.
Step 3: Attend a biometrics appointment
After submitting your petition or application, you will need to attend a biometrics appointment at a designated USCIS Application Support Center. At this appointment, you will have your fingerprints, photograph, and signature taken.
Step 4: Attend an interview
Depending on the type of Green Card you are applying for, you may also be required to attend an interview. The purpose of the interview is to verify the information provided in your petition or application, as well as to ensure that you meet all eligibility criteria.
Family sponsorship:
If you are being sponsored by a family member, you may be required to attend an interview with a USCIS officer.
Employment-based immigration:
If you are obtaining a Green Card through employment-based immigration, you may be required to attend an interview with a USCIS officer.
Investment:
If you are applying for a Green Card through the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program, you may be required to attend an interview with a USCIS officer.
Diversity visa lottery:
If you are selected in the Diversity Visa Lottery, you will need to attend an interview at a US embassy or consulate in your home country.
Refugee or Asylum status:
If you have been granted refugee or asylum status in the US, you may be required to attend an interview with a USCIS officer.
Step 5: Receive your Green Card
If your petition or application is approved, you will receive your Green Card by mail. The Green Card is valid for ten years and can be renewed indefinitely as long as you continue to meet all eligibility criteria.
Conclusion
Obtaining a Green Card as a UK citizen can be a complex and time-consuming process. It is important to determine your eligibility and research thoroughly before beginning the application process. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can increase your chances of success and begin your new life as a permanent resident of the United States.
