How do you obtain a green card?

There are several different ways. You usually begin by getting a visa by the USCIS in the USA or at a USA embassy or consulate in your home country. The fastest way to obtain a Permanent Resident alien visa (green card) is through marriage to a US citizen or, more specifically, through a relative (a parent, spouse, or sibling over 21 years old who is a US citizen or a permanent resident alien who owns a green card). There are many different kinds of visas including employment, fiance/ee, and tourist (although tourist visas usually will never lead to a green card).

2 broad categories of Green Cards are as follows:

• Employment-based Immigration which includes the EB1, EB2, and EB3 categories
• Family-based or marriage-based immigration

The applicable process depends on your current citizenship and family heritage. For the most up-to-date information contact your current home country's US Embassy.
Determine if you are eligible for permanent residence. Review the eligibility requirements needed before applying for your green card. Adjusting your status to a permanent resident is the process used by immigrants to get a green card while in the United States. Find out more about the process.