Before beginning your immigration journey, it’s important to clearly define your goals and intentions in the United States. Determine whether you plan to stay temporarily or permanently, then review the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) criteria for each visa category that may apply to your situation.
Speaking with an immigration attorney at Green Card Link is highly recommended. By evaluating your background, goals, and eligibility, the immigration attorneys at Green Card Link can help ensure you select the correct visa category and avoid wasting valuable time and money on applications that do not fit your qualifications.
The United States remains one of the most sought-after destinations for immigrants around the world. This comprehensive guide explains the key pathways to move to the U.S., including different types of immigration programs, eligibility requirements, and options to help you choose the best route toward your American dream.
Immigrant vs. Nonimmigrant Visas
There are two main ways to enter the United States — through an immigrant visa or a nonimmigrant visa.
Immigrant Visa:
An immigrant visa provides lawful permanent residency—commonly known as a green card. With a green card, you gain the freedom to work for any employer in the U.S., live indefinitely in the country, and eventually apply for U.S. citizenship after meeting the naturalization requirements.
Nonimmigrant Visa:
A nonimmigrant visa allows you to come to the U.S. temporarily for a specific purpose such as work, study, tourism, or marriage. While these visas can often be renewed, they do not grant permanent residency or a direct path to citizenship.
The U.S. Immigration Process: Step-by-Step
Although every visa type has its own rules, most immigration journeys follow a similar process:
- Choose the appropriate visa category
- Review and meet all eligibility requirements
- Pay the necessary application fees
- Submit your visa application
- Wait for processing and a decision from USCIS or the U.S. consulate
- Once approved, prepare to move to the United States
Major Types of U.S. Immigration Pathways
There are several options for immigrating to the United States, depending on your background, goals, and connections. The primary pathways include family-based, employment-based, humanitarian, and diversity-based immigration. Below is an overview of the most common routes.
Family-Based Green Cards
A family-based green card allows individuals to become lawful permanent residents through a qualifying relationship with a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident (LPR). Eligible relationships typically include spouses, parents, children, and siblings. The U.S. citizen or LPR acts as the petitioner, sponsoring their family member’s immigration.
While there are annual limits on family-based visas by country, immediate relatives (such as spouses, unmarried children under 21, and parents of U.S. citizens) are not subject to those limits.
Examples of Family-Based Visa Categories Include:
- IR-1 and CR-1: Spouse of a U.S. citizen
- IR-2: Unmarried child (under 21) of a U.S. citizen
- IR-3: Orphan adopted abroad by a U.S. citizen
- IR-4: Orphan to be adopted in the United States by a U.S. citizen
- IR-5: Parent of a U.S. citizen (aged 21 or older)
The immigration attorneys at Green Card Link can guide you through each stage of the family-based petition, ensuring all required documentation and timelines are met for the smoothest possible process
Employment-Based Green Cards
Employment-based green cards are available to foreign nationals who wish to live and work permanently in the United States. These visas often favor professionals with specialized skills that contribute to U.S. innovation, such as scientists, engineers, researchers, educators, and healthcare specialists.
Typically, an employer must sponsor the applicant by offering a job and, in many cases, proving that no qualified U.S. worker is available for the role. However, certain visa categories—like the National Interest Waiver (NIW)—allow individuals to self-petition if their work benefits the United States significantly.
Main Employment-Based Green Card Categories Include:
- EB-1: Priority workers such as individuals with extraordinary ability, outstanding professors and researchers, and multinational executives or managers
- EB-2: Professionals with advanced degrees or exceptional ability in science, business, or the arts
- EB-3: Skilled workers, professionals, and other workers
- EB-4: Special immigrants, including religious workers, broadcasters, and certain international employees
- EB-5: Immigrant investors who invest in a U.S. business creating at least 10 full-time jobs
While the process can be complex, the immigration attorneys at Green Card Link can help you navigate the PERM labor certification, visa petition, and adjustment of status or consular processing steps efficiently.
Temporary Work and Specialty Visas
If your goal is to work in the U.S. for a limited time, several nonimmigrant work visas allow temporary employment without permanent residency. Common examples include:
- H-1B Visa: For professionals in specialty occupations requiring a bachelor’s degree or higher
- L-1 Visa: For intracompany transferees relocating from a foreign branch to a U.S. office
- E-3 Visa: For Australian professionals in specialty fields
- TN Visa: For Canadian and Mexican professionals under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA, formerly NAFTA)
- O Visa: For individuals with extraordinary ability in the arts, sciences, education, business, or athletics
- P Visa: For athletes, entertainers, and performing artists
- R Visa: For religious workers employed by nonprofit religious organizations
The immigration attorneys at Green Card Link can assess your qualifications, employer documentation, and timeline to recommend the visa that best aligns with your career goals and long-term immigration plans.
Humanitarian Green Cards and Diversity Visas: Pathways to U.S. Permanent Residency
A humanitarian-based green card, also known as a special immigrant green card, offers a pathway to permanent residency or temporary protected status for individuals fleeing persecution or experiencing severe hardship in their home country or within the United States. These programs are designed to protect vulnerable individuals such as refugees, victims of human trafficking, and those granted asylum or humanitarian parole.
To qualify for a humanitarian green card, applicants must meet specific eligibility standards established by U.S. immigration law. Typically, this includes proving a well-founded fear of persecution based on religion, nationality, race, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group. Because the process involves extensive documentation and legal complexity, guidance from an immigration attorney at Green Card Link can be invaluable in ensuring your petition is accurate and well-supported.
The humanitarian immigration system aims to give safety, stability, and opportunity to individuals who have suffered persecution or extreme hardship, helping them build a new life in the United States.
Types of Humanitarian-Based Green Cards
T Visa – Available to victims of severe human trafficking who assist law enforcement in investigating or prosecuting the traffickers.
U Visa – Granted to individuals residing in the U.S. who have suffered substantial physical or emotional abuse and are assisting law enforcement agencies in their investigations.
VAWA Green Card – Offered to victims of domestic violence or abuse committed by a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident spouse or parent, allowing them to seek protection and independence.
Diversity Visa Lottery (DV Program)
Every year, the U.S. government conducts the Diversity Visa Lottery Program, which randomly selects up to 55,000 qualified applicants from countries with historically low immigration rates to the United States. This initiative promotes cultural and demographic diversity within the U.S. immigrant population.
To be eligible for a Diversity Green Card, applicants must:
- Be a native of an eligible country;
- Possess a high school diploma or equivalent; or
- Have at least two years of work experience in a qualifying occupation; and
- Pass all required background and security checks.
Because the application window is limited and the process is highly competitive, the immigration attorneys at Green Card Link can help ensure your eligibility and prepare a strong, error-free application.
General U.S. Immigration Requirements
The requirements for U.S. immigration vary based on the visa type. However, most visa applicants must generally meet the following criteria:
- Valid Passport – Must be valid for at least six months beyond the intended stay in the U.S.
- Nonimmigrant Intent – For temporary visas, applicants must prove they do not intend to stay permanently.
- Petition Requirement – Certain visas require a sponsor or petitioner who is a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident.
- Consular Interview – Most applicants must attend an interview at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate.
- Financial Stability – Applicants must demonstrate sufficient funds to support themselves during their stay.
- English Proficiency – Some visas require proof of English language ability.
- Medical Examination – A health exam may be required to confirm the applicant is free of infectious diseases.
- Clean Criminal Record – Applicants must have no criminal history or involvement in terrorist activities.
At Green Card Link, its immigration attorneys ensure that all required evidence, forms, and supporting documents are complete and properly prepared before submission to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
Cost of U.S. Immigration
The cost of immigrating to the United States typically ranges from $1,200 to $8,000, depending on your visa type and personal situation. Expenses may include government filing fees, processing charges, and legal assistance fees. Costs also differ based on whether you are applying through family, employment, student, or humanitarian programs.
Applicants may also need to prove financial capability by submitting bank statements, employment offers, or proof of investment if applying under a business or investment category. Those pursuing residency by investment should also budget for business setup and operational expenses.
Below is a sample estimate of common U.S. immigration form fees:
Form or Service | Fee |
I-129F: Petition for Alien Fiancé(e) | $675 |
I-130: Petition for Alien Relative | $625 |
I-485: Green Card Application | $1,440 |
I-864: Affidavit of Support | $120 |
State Department Consular Processing | $325 |
USCIS Immigrant Fee | $220 |
EAD (I-765): Employment Authorization Document | $260 (with I-485) / $470 (standalone) |
Applying for a U.S. Visa
The process of applying for a U.S. green card depends on where you are currently located.
If you are already in the United States, you may apply for permanent residency without leaving the country through a process known as Adjustment of Status (AOS).
If you are outside the United States, your green card application is handled through consular processing at a U.S. embassy or consulate in your home country. You’ll remain abroad while your case is reviewed and approved before traveling to the United States.
Understanding the difference between these two pathways is essential to avoid delays and ensure your application is properly handled. Regardless of whether you apply through family-based or employment-based immigration, the U.S. green card process generally includes these five steps:
- Petition Filing – Your U.S. sponsor submits a petition to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
- USCIS Review – USCIS evaluates and, if eligible, approves the petition.
- Green Card Application – You file your official green card application.
- Interview – You attend an in-person interview with immigration officers.
- Final Decision – You receive a decision and, if approved, your green card or immigrant visa.
If applying from within the United States, USCIS will process your application and schedule a biometrics appointment. Applicants abroad will complete their biometrics at a U.S. consulate during the consular interview.
Once approved, your green card will either be mailed directly to you or issued after you enter the United States using an immigrant visa. Upon arrival, your physical green card will be mailed to your U.S. address.
U.S. Immigration Processing Times
Processing times for U.S. immigration vary based on visa category, country of origin, and USCIS workload. In general, the process can range from three months to more than four years depending on your specific situation.
- Family-based petitions: Typically take 8–30 months depending on the backlog and the applicant’s country.
- Employment-based visas (e.g., H-1B): Usually processed within 4–9 months.
- Diversity Visa Lottery: Approximately 8 months from selection to notification.
- Asylum cases: Can range from 4 months to several years depending on court availability.
These timelines are averages; your personal processing time may differ. It is essential to plan ahead and stay updated on the status of your case.
Living in the United States as an Immigrant
Becoming a U.S. permanent resident opens the door to countless opportunities. Immigrants often find life in the United States to be enriching both personally and professionally.
Key Benefits of Moving to the U.S.
Cultural Diversity
The United States is one of the most diverse nations in the world. Immigrants from all backgrounds bring unique traditions, cuisines, and languages—creating a vibrant, multicultural society. You’re likely to find communities from your home country, making your transition easier and more welcoming.
World-Class Education
The U.S. is home to many of the world’s top universities and research institutions. Immigrants and their families can access outstanding educational opportunities that lead to better career prospects and higher earning potential. Many schools offer scholarships and financial aid to qualified students.
Pathway to Citizenship
Green card holders can live and work in the United States indefinitely, travel freely, and eventually apply for U.S. citizenship. This provides lasting stability, legal protection, and the ability to vote and participate fully in civic life.
Employment Opportunities
The U.S. job market is dynamic and diverse, offering competitive salaries, professional growth, and benefits across industries. From technology to healthcare, engineering to finance, qualified immigrants can find career advancement and financial success.
Frequently Asked Questions About U.S. Immigration
How can I live legally in the United States?
There are several ways to live legally in the U.S., including obtaining a green card through family or employer sponsorship, winning the Diversity Visa Lottery, or entering on a temporary work, study, or investor visa.
Is the U.S. a good country to live in?
The United States is known for its high standard of living, robust economy, and access to world-class education and healthcare. Its multicultural environment and economic opportunities make it one of the most desirable countries for immigrants worldwide.
What is the easiest way to immigrate to the U.S.?
If you have family members who are U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents, family-based immigration is often the most straightforward route. If not, employment-based immigration allows skilled workers to come to the U.S. with employer sponsorship.
How much does it cost to immigrate to the U.S.?
Costs can range between $1,200 and $8,000, depending on the visa type, filing fees, and whether you hire an immigration attorney. Working with an experienced immigration attorney at Green Card Link ensures your case is filed correctly, potentially saving you time and costly mistakes.
Can I move to the U.S. without a job?
Yes. You may qualify through a family-based green card or student visa. A relative who is a U.S. citizen or permanent resident can sponsor you, or you can apply to study at an accredited U.S. institution. The process can be complex, so consulting with an immigration attorney at Green Card Link is highly recommended.
How do I choose an immigration attorney?
Select an attorney with strong experience handling your specific visa category. Check credentials, client testimonials, and professional affiliations. The immigration attorneys at Green Card Link are trusted professionals who provide personalized legal guidance for all types of visa and green card applications.
How Green Card Link Can Help
At Green Card Link, our experienced immigration attorneys guide individuals and families through every step of the visa or green card process. Whether you’re applying from within the U.S. or abroad, we’ll help you determine the most effective immigration strategy, prepare your documentation, and represent your best interests before USCIS or the U.S. consulate.