The desire to move to the USA, work and live there is becoming a great desire for people living in many countries of the world. Obtaining a Green Card (Permanent Resident Card) is one of the most effective ways to live and work in the USA for a long time. Obtaining a Green Card is a very important step for those who want to build a new life in the USA and live there. It is very important to follow this process carefully, provide correct information and apply only through official channels. Do not forget about the DV Lottery, which is the most profitable among the various immigration programs of the USA. Do not forget to contact official sources to find answers to all your questions about obtaining a Green Card. In this blog post, we will explain in detail what a Green Card is, how to obtain it and the important points you should pay attention to during the application process.
What is a Green Card?
A Green Card (officially a Permanent Resident Card) is a document that grants permanent residency in the United States. Green Card holders can legally live, work, and study in the United States. Having a Green Card allows them to obtain legal status in the United States, integrate into American society, and benefit from many social and economic benefits.
It does not mean that the Green Card holder becomes a US citizen, but it provides them with the right to permanent residence in the United States. After meeting certain conditions for obtaining citizenship, Green Card holders can apply to become US citizens. Green Card holders have the following rights:
- The right to work freely in the United States
- Access to the social security system
- The opportunity to live in the city or state of their choice in the United States
- Favourable tax payments, etc.
How to Get a Green Card?
There are several different ways to get a Green Card. The most common ways are:
- Diversity Visa (DV) Lottery
- Family sponsorship
- Work sponsorship
- Change of status after studying in the US
The Diversity Visa (DV)
Lottery is a program organized by the US government and in which millions of people participate every year. The goal is to create conditions for people from different countries around the world to gain permanent residence in the United States. Among those who apply for the DV Lottery, selections are made solely on the basis of a quota based on the country of application, regardless of other criteria such as education, work and family ties.
DV Lottery Application Requirements
Several basic requirements must be met to apply for the DV Lottery:
- Country Requirement: The applicant's country of origin or origin must be eligible for the DV Lottery. The US government sets a quota each year and only people from those countries can apply.
- Education and Experience: To apply for the DV Lottery, a minimum of high school education (or equivalent) or work experience in a specific field within the last 5 years is required.
- Age: The applicant must be at least 18 years of age.
- Photo Requirements: It is important to submit a properly taken and sized photo with the application form. The quality of the photo plays an important role in whether the application is accepted or not.
How to Apply for the DV Lottery?
To apply for the DV Lottery, you need to start the registration process by visiting the official website of the US Department of State (dvprogram.state.gov). Registration is a simple process, but it is only necessary to register on the official website to apply. Registered individuals can view the results after 6 months. If they are selected, they will move on to the next stage and become eligible to receive a Green Card.
Advantages of the DV Lottery
- Opportunities for the Lucky Selected: Since it is lottery-based, there is a chance to get a Green Card without any special education or professional experience.
- Applying with Family Members: The spouse and children up to the age of 21 of the person who receives the Green Card can also get a Green Card.
- Simplicity of the Application Process: The DV Lottery application process is relatively simple and does not require higher education or work experience to apply.
Disadvantages of the DV Lottery
- Low Chances: Since this lottery is a large competition, very few people are selected. Millions of applications are received every year, but only thousands are selected.
- Application Confusion: Since there are so many applicants, some errors and confusion can occur. Also, incorrect photos or information can cause the application to be rejected.
Family Sponsorship
One of the most common ways to obtain a Green Card in the United States is through family sponsorship. Individuals who are U.S. citizens or permanent residents (Green Card holders) can apply for a Green Card for their immediate family members. Family sponsorship is regulated by relevant laws and is carried out based on certain procedures.
Family Sponsorship Requirements
The following requirements apply to obtain a Green Card through family sponsorship:
- Citizenship or Green Card Holder: The family sponsor must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident (Green Card holder).
- Family Members: Green Card sponsorship is only available to immediate family members. These members may include spouses, children (under 18 years of age), parents, and sometimes siblings.
- Financial Requirements: The sponsor must confirm that he or she will financially support the applicant. This is an important requirement for the approval of the Green Card application.
Getting a Green Card through Family Sponsorship
To get a Green Card through family sponsorship, you need to follow these steps:
- Filling Form I-130: The family sponsor needs to fill out Form I-130 to start the Green Card application. This form is submitted by the sponsor in the US to prove that the applicant is a family member.
- Consular Interview: After the application is accepted, a consular interview will be held regarding the applicant. Relevant documents and information must be submitted at this stage.
- Green Card Presentation: After the interview and document verification are successfully completed, the Green Card is presented and the relevant person gains permanent residence in the US.
Advantages of Family Sponsorship
- Simple and Advantageous: Family sponsorship is faster than other ways to get a Green Card and does not require additional education or work experience when applying.
- Opportunity for All Family Members: If a person receives a Green Card, their spouse and children can also benefit from this process.
Disadvantages of Family Sponsorship
- Number of Family Members: In some cases, only certain family members can obtain a Green Card, for example, US citizens can only sponsor their spouses and children.
- Follow-up Procedures: The family sponsorship process can take longer in some cases and the bureaucratic procedures can be complicated.
Job Sponsorship
Job sponsorship is another way to obtain a Green Card and generally involves an employer hiring a permanent employee in the United States. Through job sponsorship, an employer applies for a Green Card for individuals who are specialized in a specific field. This process can be somewhat complicated and time-consuming, as the employer is required to meet certain requirements.
Job Sponsorship Requirements
- Employer Sponsorship: An employer in the United States must hire an individual with experience and skills in a specific field. The employer must provide the appropriate documentation to file the individual’s Green Card application.
- Qualifications and Experience: The individual sponsored by the employer must have a specific qualification and experience. This must be relevant to the field being applied for and the employer’s needs.
Job Sponsorship Procedure
- Job Offer and Certification: The employer applies by making a job offer and proving that there is a shortage in certain job fields.
- Form I-140: The employer files a Form I-140 with the employer to recruit the person.
- Consular Procedures and Interview: After the application procedures are completed, the employee is called for a consular interview.
Advantages of Employment Sponsorship
- Opportunities for Individuals with Special Skills: This path is easier and faster for individuals with special skills and experience.
- Opportunities that do not require high experience: High qualifications and experience play a key role during the employment sponsorship process.
Disadvantages of Employment Sponsorship
- Processing Time: Employment sponsorship applications can sometimes take a long time and require a complex document process.
- Employer Sponsorship: An applicant can only apply with the approval of an employer.
Change of Status After Studying in the USA
International students studying in the USA can obtain a Green Card by changing their status after studying by fulfilling certain conditions. This process is based on the education and experience the student has gained in the USA. Individuals who have studied in certain fields can obtain a Green Card to live permanently in the USA by finding a job in these fields.
Change of Status After Studying Procedure
- OPT (Optional Practical Training): Individuals who have studied in the USA have the right to work during and after their studies with the OPT program. This program allows them to work in the USA in the field they studied for a certain period of time.
- H-1B Visa: The most commonly used type of visa after studying is the H-1B. This visa is issued to professional workers to work in the USA. Individuals who have worked in the USA for a certain period of time with an H-1B visa can apply for a Green Card.
Advantages of Change of Status After Studying
- Education and Qualification Improvement: Individuals who have studied in the USA can get a job in their field after completing their studies.
- Living Opportunities: The ability to find a job and obtain a Green Card after graduation gives students the chance to build a new life.
Disadvantages of Post-Graduation Status Change
- Difficulties and Time-Consuming Processes: Post-graduation status change can be a complex and time-consuming process.
- Limited Qualifications: There may be restrictions on this process in some fields.
DV Lottery Application Procedure
To apply for the DV Lottery, you must first register on the official website of the US Department of State (dvprogram.state.gov). You can follow the steps below to follow the application process:
- Login to the Registration Site: The most reliable source is the official website of the State Department. Here you can find information about the registration period and restrictions.
- Fill out the Application Form: The application form is simple and easy to use, but it is very important not to provide any false information. This form requires personal information, education and work history.
- Photo Requirements: The format and dimensions of the photo required in the form are very important. The photo must be taken correctly and meet the technical requirements.
- Submit the Form: After filling out the form, submit it on the official website and you will receive confirmation.
- Checking Application Results: You can check the relevant results in November every year. If you are selected, instructions will be provided for the next steps.
Tips for a Successful Application
To make your Green Card application successful, pay attention to the following important points:
- Complete and Accurate Information: Enter all your information correctly and in detail. Any inaccuracy may lead to the rejection of your application.
- Photo Requirements: Pay special attention to the size and quality of the photo when applying for a Green Card. This plays an important role in the acceptance of your application.
- Protection from Fraudulent Sites: There are many fraudulent sites on the Internet. Apply only from the official State Department website and do not pay application fees to any third party.
- Expert Assistance: If you want help during your Green Card application, you can get support from lawyers or experts who have experience in this field.
What Happens If You Win?
If you are selected for the DV Lottery, you should make sure that you proceed to the following processes in the next stage:
- DS-260 Form: If your application is selected, you will be asked to fill out the DS-260 form by the US Department of State.
- Interview Process: A Green Card interview will be held at a US consulate. During this interview, you will need to present your documents and answer relevant questions.
- Medical Examination: A medical examination is required to live in the US. This examination, conducted by health care providers, is aimed at preventing certain diseases.
- Departure Procedure: After receiving a Green Card, you must move to the US within a certain period of time to move and start living there.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Is there a minimum age to obtain a Green Card?
There is no age limit for applying for a Green Card, but it is recommended that the applicant be of legal age (18 years or older).
2. Do family members also receive a Green Card?
Yes, family members (spouse and children) of the person who is selected as the Green Card holder can also benefit from this process.
3. How long is a Green Card issued?
The Green Card is generally issued for a period of 10 years and can be renewed upon expiration.
4. Will my Green Card be revoked if I do not go to the United States?
If Green Card holders do not live in the United States for a long time, their Green Card may be revoked. Continuous residence in the United States is essential for maintaining a Green Card.
5. Is it possible to obtain dual citizenship?
Yes, a person holding a Green Card in the United States can also retain the citizenship of their home country. The United States accepts dual citizenship.
Visa Support
You can click here to place your order. For more information, you can contact 010/50/55-3000135.
