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Green Card

An immigrant visa for permanent legal residency (typically called a “green card”) allows a foreign national to live and work in the United States, usually indefinitely. People seeking immigrant visas usually are sponsored by an employer or a family member, but there are other avenues toward obtaining an immigrant visa. Below you fill find a wide range of information on immigrant visas, including overviews of employment- and family-based visas; investment/business visas; tips on how to maintain your green card; and much more. Download FindLaw's Guide to Applying for Your Green Card [PDF] for a one-stop overview of the permanent residence application process.
Learn About Green Card
  • Who May Obtain a Green Card?

    A U.S. permanent resident card, or “green card,” identifies the cardholder as a permanent resident of the U.S. Learn about the categories of those eligible for a green card and how to obtain one.

  • How to Keep Your Green Card

    Once you’ve obtained a green card you have to comply with a number of rules in order to keep it. This article provides information about the type of activities you should avoid, like leaving the country for long periods.

  • Petition for a Family or Employment Green Card

    An employer or family member can petition the government to obtain a green card on your behalf. Learn about the process for family and employment green cards, including the visa petition, priority, and more.

  • The Green Card Process: Do's and Don'ts

    A collection of tips to help make the green card application process go as smoothly as possible. Learn about the things you should do and the things you should avoid doing when obtaining a green card.

  • Can I Travel without a Green Card?

    Find answers to your questions about how a green card will affect your ability to travel. Learn about whether permanent residents and those awaiting a change in their immigration status may travel freely.

  • Green Card Marriage Interview FAQ's

    Commonly asked questions about green card marriage interviews. Find answers to your questions about the type of things covered in the interview, how to prepare for it, and the time frame for the green card process.

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