If you are dreaming of evolving a permanent resident in the US? You’re not alone. Thousands of immigrants are eager to obtain their green cards and secure their futures. However, the process can be daunting.
This guide aims to simplify the green card application process, especially for those applying through family relationships. How long to get green card? Read on to find out about the different timelines associated with various types of green card applications and what you can expect each step of the way.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Green Card?
Getting a green card can take different payments of time depending on a few factors. This includes the type of application you are submitting and the current processing times set by USCIS. For instance, a marriage green card or spousal visa can take 13.5 to 40 months.
Regardless of your confidence in qualifying for a family-based green card, it’s natural to be eager to complete the process. Unfortunately, these green cards are not issued overnight.
The exact timeline depends on several considerations, including:
- Your family relationship basis for eligibility
- Whether your relatives hold U.S. citizenship or legal permanent residence
- Your country of origin
- Where you are applying for the green card
- Whether USCIS requires additional evidence to process your case
Read on to learn more about family-based green card applications’ different scenarios and timelines.
Factors Influencing Green Card Processing Times
There are several factors can influence how long you will wait for your green card. These include:
- Type of Family Relationship: Different family relationships mean different processing times.
- Relative’s Status: Whether your relative is a U.S. citizen or a green card holder also affects the timeline.
- Geographical Location: Your location and where you apply can speed up or slow down the process.
- USCIS Requests for Evidence: If USCIS needs more information, it can extend the timeline.
Understanding these factors can help you better prepare for the waiting period.
Green Card Application Steps
Regardless of the relationship between the sponsor and the beneficiary, getting a family-based green card involves the following steps:
- File Form I-130 (“Application for Alien Relative” ): This proves the family relationship.
- File Form I-485 (“Petition for Adjustment of Status” ): This is applicable if the beneficiary is in the United States.
- File Form DS-260 (“Immigrant Visa Application” ): This is applicable if the beneficiary is outside the United States.
The main thing that affects how long does it take to process green card is the wait time between filing the family relationship form and actually applying for it.
Timelines for Family-Based Green Cards
Spouses of U.S. Citizens
- Living in the United States: Getting a marriage-based green card takes 10 to 23 months. Spouses can file their I-130 and I-485 concurrently.
- Living Outside the United States: Getting a spousal visa takes an average of 13.5 to 15 months.
Spouses of Green Card Holders
If you’re married to a green card holder, you’ll need to wait for a green card to become available after your sponsor files Form I-130. The entire process usually takes around three years, but it can take slightly longer for Mexico, China, India, and the Philippines citizens.
- Living in the United States: Expect to wait about 29 to 40 months.
- Living Outside the United States: The wait is about 29 to 40 months.
Widows of U.S. Citizens
Widows and widowers can apply for a green card within 2 years of their spouse’s death using Form I-360. The timeline is similar to that for spouses of U.S. citizens.
Parents of U.S. Citizens
There’s no cap on green cards for parents of U.S. citizens, so they can typically get one within 1-2 years of applying.
Minor Children of U.S. Citizens
Like spouses and parents, there is no limit on the number of green cards for minor children of U.S. citizens. They can typically get a green card within 1-2 years.
Minor Children of Green Card Holders
These children must wait for a green card to become available, similar to spouses of green card holders. Generally, the process takes around three years, but it can take longer for certain countries.
Unmarried Adult Children of U.S. Citizens
The wait can be pretty long, especially for folks from Mexico.
- General Timeline: 7-8 years
- For Citizens of the Philippines: 10+ years
- For Citizens of Mexico: 20+ years
Unmarried Adult Children of Green Card Holders
- General Timeline: 8-9 years
- For Citizens of the Philippines: 10+ years
- For Citizens of Mexico: 20+ years
Married Adult Children of U.S. Citizens
- General Timeline: 13-14 years
- For Citizens of the Philippines and Mexico: 22+ years
Siblings of U.S. Citizens
- General Timeline: 14-16 years
- For Citizens of India: 16+ years
- For Citizens of Mexico: 20+ years
- For Citizens of the Philippines: 24+ years
Conclusion
We hope this article helps you answer “How long does the green card process take?”. If you have any further questions, consult with an experienced immigration attorney.
They can provide personalized guidance and assistance throughout the green card application process. Remember to stay patient and follow USCIS guidelines for a smooth and successful journey toward obtaining your family-based green card.