Types Of U.S. Green Cards: Exploring The Options

When it comes to researching the different options for green cards, it can be a confusing process. Many U.S. green card types are available depending on a person’s circumstances, such as family relationships, employment, refugee status, or winning a diversity lottery. With so many options, it is easy to feel overwhelmed and unsure which choice is right for you.

This blog will give you an overview of the different types of U.S. green cards so you can make an informed decision. Keep reading to learn more! 

Benefits Of Obtaining a Green Card 

Obtaining a green card in the U.S. is crucial to becoming a permanent resident and unlocking many opportunities and benefits unavailable without it. With a green card, individuals can: 

• Live in the U.S. indefinitely, 
• Work legally in any state they choose, 
• Travel freely outside the country (for more than six months) for business or leisure, 
• Petition for close family members to join them in the U.S., 
• Apply for citizenship after a certain period, and more. 

Green Card Categories in The U.S. To Choose From 

The green card also protects from deportation and access to federal benefits such as Social Security, Medicaid, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), public education grants and loans, and many others. Let’s take a closer look at your options. 

Family-Based Green Cards 

Family-based green cards are permanent resident visas issued to family members of U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents. Several types of family-based green cards exist, including immediate relative and preference categories. Close relatives include spouses, parents, or unmarried children under 21 of a U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident; no annual limit applies to issuing these visas.

Employment-Based Green Cards

Employment-based green cards are permanent residence cards that allows foreign nationals to live and work in the United States continuously. These permits typically grant those with specific specialized skills or talents and those who have been offered positions by U.S.-based employers. 

Diversity Visa Lottery 

The Diversity Visa Lottery, or “DV Lottery” for short, is a United States government program that provides visas to immigrants from countries with low rates of immigration to the U.S. The program, administered by the Department of State (DOS), awards immigrant visas yearly. 

Refugee and Asylee Green Cards

Refugee and asylee green cards, more formally known as lawful permanent resident (LPR) status, are a form of immigration relief that allow individuals who meet specific eligibility criteria to reside permanently in the United States. Refugees are foreign nationals outside the United States who fear persecution due to their race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group and cannot remain in their home country. 

Special Category or Other Green Cards 

The main difference between these two categories is that Special Categories are for individuals granted permission to enter the U.S. based on a particular eligibility category. In contrast, other Green Cards refer to those who have obtained their green card through other means.

Experienced Immigration Lawyers Can Support You 

The Presti Law Firm has extensive experience in the field of immigration law and can provide you with personalized advice about your specific immigration needs. You shouldn’t have to feel confused with the legal process. 

We understand the complexities of U.S. immigration laws, regulations, procedures, and paperwork requirements. We use this knowledge to help our clients navigate the complex process of obtaining a visa or other legal status to remain in the United States.

The Presti Law Firm is here to help you with the immigration process.. We understand that the immigration process can be overwhelming, so we strive to make it as easy for you as possible. Our friendly, proactive approach ensures that your case will always receive the attention it deserves.