How to get a Green Card

Knowing how to get a Green Card in the United States and how much a first-time Green Card costs is one of the most common questions, because there isn’t a single path for everyone: it depends on your category, your immigration history, and whether you are inside or outside the U.S. In general terms, to obtain it you must:

• Apply under one of the eligibility categories recognized by U.S. immigration law;
• Meet the specific requirements for that category; and
• File the application with the required supporting documents with USCIS (if you are in the U.S.) or through a U.S. consulate/embassy (if you are abroad).

In addition, a “Gold Card” was announced as a residency initiative tied to an economic contribution. Its implementation and requirements may change, and it does not automatically replace the traditional paths (family, employment, asylum/refugee-based). If you see specific figures, timelines, or “fixed requirements,” always verify the information through official sources before taking action or providing personal data or money.

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In this guide you will find clear, updated information for 2026 about eligibility paths, costs and processing times, plus practical tips to avoid common mistakes (which often cause delays, Requests for Evidence, or denials).

What is it, how to get a Green Card, and what does it allow you to do in the United States?

A Green Card is the document that proves a foreign national is a lawful permanent resident of the United States. To obtain one, you typically must:

1. Apply under an eligibility category (family, employment, asylum/refugee-based, the Diversity Visa Lottery, or other options);
2. Meet the requirements and avoid grounds of inadmissibility; and
3. File with USCIS if you are in the U.S., or use consular processing if you are outside the country.

Key rights a Green Card provides

• Live and work legally in the U.S.
• Sponsor certain family members (depending on your case and visa availability).
• Access certain federal benefits if you meet the eligibility rules and required timeframes.
• Travel outside the U.S. (with caution: long absences can affect your status).

Limitations of a Green Card

• It does not give you the right to vote.
• Extended absences may put your status at risk.
• Fraud or serious crimes may lead to revocation.
• It is not “citizenship”: you still have obligations (taxes, primary residence, and more).

Those are the essentials; each right and limitation has exceptions and additional rules that should be reviewed based on your specific situation.

If you want a clear guide on how to get a Green Card while avoiding common mistakes, continue with the eligibility categories and the step-by-step overview below.

Eligibility categories to get a Green Card (updated for 2026)

There are several ways to become a lawful permanent resident in the United States. Each option applies to different situations and has its own requirements. Some of the most common include:

1. Family petition

The most common path to lawful permanent residence is through a family-based petition filed by a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident.

Requirements and timelines depend on the relationship and the sponsor’s immigration status. In broad terms:

• Immediate relatives of U.S. citizens: spouses, unmarried children under 21, and parents of U.S. citizens who are 21 or older. These are not subject to annual numerical caps, but they still require eligibility review, document verification, and often an interview.
• Family preference categories: for example, certain adult children, married children, or siblings (depending on the case). These are subject to quotas and can involve waiting lists and a priority date.
• The process usually begins with Form I-130 filed with USCIS by the sponsoring family member.

Practical tip: in family cases, the biggest delays often come from incomplete evidence (civil documents, translations, proof of a bona fide relationship/marriage, addresses, and dates). A “clean” filing can help avoid Requests for Evidence (RFEs) and unnecessary delays.

2. Employment-based

Immigrant workers may pursue a Green Card through different employment-based categories, each with specific requirements:

• EB-1: for individuals with extraordinary ability, outstanding professors/researchers, and certain multinational executives or managers.
• EB-2: for advanced-degree professionals or individuals with exceptional ability. This can include a National Interest Waiver (NIW) when eligible.
• EB-3: for skilled workers, professionals, and certain other workers (non-temporary/non-seasonal).
• EB-4: for special immigrants (which may include, in certain cases, Special Immigrant Juveniles and other subcategories).
• EB-5: for investors who meet the minimum investment rules and job-creation requirements.

Practical tip: in employment cases, a common mistake is relying on what “sounds right” instead of what the category actually requires (for example, weak EB-1 evidence or an underdeveloped NIW strategy). Choosing the right path early can prevent months of delay—or a denial.

Gold Card (residency through an economic contribution)

The Gold Card has been presented as a fast-track option tied to an economic contribution, but as with new initiatives, there may be changes to eligibility, steps, fees, and processing times.

If someone promises approval “in weeks” or asks for money outside official channels, that is a red flag. Before moving forward, confirm the program’s current status and procedures, and compare it with established alternatives that may apply to your case.

3. Refugees and asylees

Another path to a Green Card is through refugee or asylee status. People granted this protection may apply for lawful permanent residence after one year of being admitted as a refugee or granted asylum (depending on the case), as long as they meet the applicable requirements and forms.

• Baseline requirement: you must have maintained the qualifying status for at least one year (without losing it).
• Application: typically filed on Form I-485 to adjust to lawful permanent resident status.

4. Humanitarian programs

There are humanitarian options that may allow certain victims of abuse, violence, or qualifying crimes to seek a Green Card. These paths are designed to protect the person and provide a lawful solution when strict requirements are met:

• VAWA: for certain relatives of U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents who suffered abuse or extreme cruelty, including self-petitions.
• U visa: for victims of qualifying crimes in the U.S. who cooperate with law enforcement when required.
• T visa: for victims of human trafficking who meet eligibility requirements.
• SIJ (Special Immigrant Juvenile Status): for unmarried individuals under 21 in the U.S. who suffered abuse, abandonment, or neglect (requires a state court order and additional requirements).

5. Diversity Visa Lottery (Diversity Visa Program)

The Diversity Visa (DV) Lottery is a program established by law that allocates about 50,000 immigrant visas each year to individuals from countries with historically low rates of immigration to the United States.

The process includes:

• Registration: free online entry during the official window.
• Selection: random draw, subject to regional and country caps.
• Final stage: selected entrants must meet requirements and complete consular processing.

Important update for 2026: while the DV Lottery exists by law, on December 18, 2025 a pause was reported, which may affect visa issuance and case progress (interviews/approvals) depending on timing and the consulate.

This pause does not necessarily mean the program was legally eliminated, but it can affect how it operates in practice. Before paying any fees or making decisions, verify the current status through official sources. Remember: entry is free and no one can guarantee selection.

6. Other special categories

There are also special situations that may lead to a Green Card, for example:

• Registry: for people who have continuously resided in the United States since before January 1, 1972.
• Special laws for certain countries: including programs such as the Cuban Adjustment Act and other country-specific provisions, depending on the case.
• Cancellation of removal: a complete guide in our blog if you are already in proceedings before an immigration judge.

Differences between adjustment of status and consular processing

Choosing correctly between adjustment of status and consular processing is a key part of how to get a Green Card more safely—and often with fewer risks.

There are two main ways to apply for permanent residence, depending on where the applicant is located:

• Adjustment of status (inside the U.S.) is filed on Form I-485. In many cases, it allows you to remain in the U.S. while the application is pending, if you qualify.
• Consular processing (outside the U.S.) is completed using Form DS-260 (NVC + U.S. consulate/embassy). It is often required when the applicant is abroad or cannot adjust status in the U.S.

Factors to consider when choosing

Before deciding between adjustment of status and consular processing, it’s important to evaluate:

• Where you are today: if you are in the U.S. in valid status, adjustment may be an option (depending on the category).
• How you entered: entry without inspection, prior immigration violations, or certain inadmissibility issues may require consular processing or waivers.
• Risk of leaving the country: some people should not depart without legal guidance, because they may trigger bars or be unable to return.
• Visa availability and processing times: vary by category, country, and USCIS/consular workloads.

Practical example:

• Laura entered with an F-1 student visa and married a U.S. citizen. If she maintains status and meets the requirements, she may use adjustment of status without leaving the country.
• Andrés lives in Peru and has an approved I-130 filed by his U.S. citizen spouse. Because he is outside the U.S., he must follow consular processing using the DS-260 through his consulate.

Documents needed to apply for a Green Card

To obtain lawful permanent residence, each applicant must submit the forms required for their category and include supporting documents.

A key part of how to get a Green Card is properly gathering the right forms and evidence to prove eligibility, identity, immigration history, and—when applicable—family or employment relationships. Below is a summary of common filings:

Form	Who is it for?	Note
I-130	Family petitions	Foundation of many family cases
I-140	Employment (EB-2/EB-3)	May require PERM
I-360	VAWA, R visas, SIJ	Self-petition may be possible
I-526	EB-5 investors	Job-creation requirements
I-485 / DS-260	Adjustment / Consular	Depends on location
I-693	Medical exam	Authorized civil surgeon

Common additional evidence: passport or birth certificate, immigration history (I-94, prior visas), proof of a bona fide marriage when applicable (joint accounts, lease, insurance, photos, sworn statements), and the medical exam on Form I-693.

Special cases

• Refugees and asylees: typically include proof of status and that they meet the one-year requirement.
• VAWA: evidence of abuse or extreme cruelty (depending on the case: reports, therapy records, declarations, and more).
• Diversity Visa Lottery: consular processing documentation and official confirmations.
• SIJ: review the SIJS requirements to understand the documentation and steps that apply.

General steps to apply for a Green Card

1. File the immigrant petition

The first step is to formally start the immigration process:

• It is usually filed by a sponsor (a family member or an employer).
• In certain cases, you may self-petition (for example, VAWA or specific employment categories).

2. Wait for petition approval

After the petition is filed, USCIS reviews the form and evidence:

• If approved, USCIS issues a Notice of Action (Form I-797).
• If the category is subject to annual limits, you must wait until your priority date becomes current in the Visa Bulletin before moving forward.

3. File the application for lawful permanent residence

With an approved petition and—when required—a visa available, you formally apply for the Green Card:

• Form I-485 if you are in the U.S. (adjustment of status).
• Form DS-260 if you are outside the U.S. (consular processing).

4. Biometrics appointment

USCIS typically schedules a biometrics appointment to collect:

• Fingerprints, photo, and signature.
• Security and background checks.

5. Interview

Many cases require an interview (with USCIS or at a consulate):

• The officer verifies information and evidence.
• You may be asked questions about the relationship, immigration history, or employment (depending on the case).

6. Final decision

After completing the steps, a final decision is issued:

• If adjustment is approved, your Green Card is mailed to you.
• If it was consular processing, you enter the U.S. with an immigrant visa and then USCIS mails the card to your U.S. address.
• If denied, USCIS explains the reasons and potential options (depending on the case: motions, refiling, or other strategies).

Practical example: a U.S. citizen’s sibling in the F4 category, after an approved I-130, must wait for the priority date to move forward in the Visa Bulletin. The final stage cannot be filed until a visa number is available for that category and country.

Tracking Green Card delivery

After approval, USCIS or the consulate handles issuance and delivery of the Green Card or immigrant visa. Tracking helps reduce the risk of lost mail or avoidable delays.

Ways to monitor your case and delivery

• USCIS online account: lets you see case updates and, when available, a tracking number.
• USPS Informed Delivery: sends alerts about upcoming mail deliveries.

Note: if the system shows “delivered” but you did not receive the card, contact your local USPS office first and then notify USCIS to request a re-mailing under the proper procedure.

Address updates

Keep your address updated throughout the process to avoid returns or lost mail.

• USCIS: file AR-11 or use the online change-of-address tool.
• USPS: update your address and/or set up mail forwarding.

Special situations to understand how to get a Green Card

When you don’t fit the traditional paths, there may be exceptions and forms of relief that can open options—but only if strict requirements are met:

• Tourist visa (B-1/B-2): does not grant residence by itself; some people may adjust through marriage or another eligible category.
• Entry without inspection / unlawful presence: often requires consular processing and/or waivers, unless an exception applies (for example, VAWA).
• TPS: does not directly grant a Green Card, but it may support other options depending on the case.
• Humanitarian parole: may allow later steps if the requirements are met.

How much does a first-time Green Card cost in 2026?

To understand how much a first-time Green Card costs, it helps to look at the process by the most common scenario, because required forms, filing fees, and related expenses can vary significantly.

Common scenario	Estimated USCIS fees	Other common costs	Estimated total
Marriage to a U.S. citizen (adjustment of status)	$2,065 – $2,115	Medical exam, translations	$2,300 – $3,000
Marriage to a lawful permanent resident	$1,065 – $1,115	Medical exam, consular processing	$2,000 – $3,500
Family petition through a consulate	$1,200 – $1,400	Immigrant fee, translations	$2,000 – $3,000
Employment-based Green Card (EB-2 / EB-3)	$1,200 – $1,600	PERM, exams, attorney fees	$3,000 – $6,000+
VAWA, asylum, or SIJ	$0 – $1,440	Medical exam	$300 – $1,800

Cost depends on your category and the forms you need. Below are current reference amounts (always verify the official fee schedule before paying):

Main filing fees

• Form I-485 (adjustment of status): $1,440 for most applicants (biometrics included).
• Form I-130 (family petition): $625 online or $675 by mail.
• Form I-140 (employment petition): $715 (an additional Asylum Program fee may apply depending on the employer).
• USCIS Immigrant Fee: $235 (consular processing cases).

Common additional costs

• Medical exam (Form I-693): $200–$500.
• Form I-765 (work permit): $470 online / $520 by mail (when applicable).
• Form I-131 (travel document): $630 (when applicable).
• Certified translations: $20–$50 per page.

Always confirm current amounts on the USCIS official fee schedule, since fees can change.

How long does it take to get a Green Card approved?

Processing times vary by category, country, and workload. As a general reference for 2026:

• Adjustment of status: ~8–14 months when a visa is available and there are no RFEs.
• Consular processing: ~12–24 months (after petition approval).
• Quota-limited categories: may take several years depending on the priority date.

Factors that cause delays

• Incomplete filings or inconsistencies.
• Requests for Evidence (RFEs).
• Consular delays or extended background checks.

Denials and how to appeal a Green Card application

Common reasons

• Medical inadmissibility.
• Serious criminal history.
• Fraud or misrepresentation.
• Insufficient evidence.

Beyond legal grounds, there are common mistakes that trigger RFEs—or even a denial—even when the person otherwise qualifies.

• Incomplete or inconsistent documentation.
• Weak relationship evidence (especially in recent marriages).
• Errors in immigration history.
• Failing to respond to an RFE on time.
• Leaving the U.S. without legal guidance.

Depending on the reason, a denial may allow a motion to reopen, a motion to reconsider, or refiling with a corrected and stronger case.

What to do after a denial

A denial does not always mean the road ends. Depending on the reason, possible options can include:

• Motion to reopen: submit new evidence that was not evaluated originally.
• Motion to reconsider: argue that there was a legal or factual error in the decision.
• Refile: when the most efficient path is to fix the issues and submit a stronger application.

Renewal, replacement, and maintaining your Green Card

Renewal

• Typical validity: 10 years. Renew using Form I-90 before it expires.
• Conditional residence (2 years): remove conditions using Form I-751 or Form I-829, depending on the case.

Replacement

• Loss, theft, incorrect information, or non-receipt.

Maintaining your status

• Live primarily in the U.S. (long absences require caution).
• File taxes as a resident.
• Maintain good moral character.

Frequently asked questions about how to get a Green Card

Is a lawful permanent resident the same as a U.S. citizen?

No. Lawful permanent residents can live and work in the U.S., but they cannot vote or hold certain public offices.

Can I lose my Green Card if I live outside the U.S.?

Yes. Extended absences (especially more than 12 months without permission) can lead to a finding of abandonment of status.

In short: understanding how to get a Green Card means choosing the right category, preparing a strong case, and knowing how much a first-time Green Card costs based on your specific situation.

• There is no one-size-fits-all path.
• Costs and timelines vary depending on the strategy.
• Small errors can cause delays or denials.
• Legal guidance can reduce risk and help the process move faster.

Conclusion: how to get a Green Card with legal help

Getting a Green Card requires choosing the right path and submitting a well-prepared application. Common mistakes can lead to avoidable delays or denials.

At Lluis Law, our immigration lawyers in Los Angeles can guide you from start to finish to maximize your chances of success.

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Contact us for a confidential evaluation and make informed decisions about your immigration future.