US PR/Green Card for Indians: Check Process, Documents Required & More

The United States is a dream destination for many Indians looking to settle abroad. Becoming a US permanent resident through a Green Card is the first step toward achieving this goal. A Green Card grants individuals the legal right to live and work in the U.S. permanently. In this blog, we will explore the different ways Indians can apply for a US Green Card, including eligibility criteria, the application process, required documents, and more.

What Is a US Green Card?

A U.S. Green Card, officially known as a Permanent Resident Card, allows foreign nationals to reside and work permanently in the United States. The Green Card is issued by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). It provides a pathway to U.S. citizenship and offers several benefits, such as access to government benefits, easier travel, and the ability to sponsor family members.

Different Ways to Get a US Green Card for Indians

There are multiple pathways for Indians to obtain a Green Card in the U.S. Some of the most common methods include:

1. Green Card Through Family Sponsorship

Indians with close family members who are U.S. citizens or Green Card holders may be eligible for permanent residency. This category includes:

• Immediate relatives of U.S. citizens (spouse, parents, and unmarried children under 21)
• Family preference categories (siblings, married children, and relatives of Green Card holders)

2. Green Card Through Employment

Many Indians migrate to the U.S. for work opportunities. There are several employment-based Green Card categories, including:

• EB-1: Priority workers (outstanding professors, researchers, executives, or individuals with extraordinary abilities)
• EB-2: Professionals with advanced degrees or exceptional abilities
• EB-3: Skilled workers, professionals, and other workers
• EB-4: Special immigrants, including religious workers and translators
• EB-5: Green Card Through Investment, which requires significant financial investment in a U.S. business

3. Green Card Through Investment (EB-5 Program)

The Green Card through investment program (EB-5) allows foreign investors, including Indians, to obtain a Green Card by investing at least $800,000 in a U.S. commercial enterprise that creates jobs for American workers. The investment must be made in a Targeted Employment Area (TEA) to qualify for the lower threshold. Investors and their immediate families (spouse and children under 21) can obtain Green Cards through this program.

4. Green Card Through Diversity Visa Lottery

Although India is not currently eligible for the Diversity Visa (DV) Lottery due to high immigration rates, individuals from certain regions may qualify if their spouse is from an eligible country.

5. Green Card Through Refugee or Asylum Status

Indians granted asylum or refugee status in the U.S. can apply for a Green Card after one year of residing in the country.

How to Apply for a US Green Card

The application process for a US Green Card for Indians varies based on the eligibility category. However, the general steps include:

Step 1: Determine Eligibility

Before applying, identify the appropriate Green Card category based on family ties, employment, investment, or other qualifying factors.

Step 2: File the Appropriate Petition

Depending on the category, an applicant or their sponsor (employer or family member) must file an immigration petition with USCIS:

• Form I-130: For family-based Green Cards
• Form I-140: For employment-based Green Cards
• Form I-526: For investment-based Green Cards (EB-5)

Step 3: Wait for Visa Availability

Green Cards are subject to annual limits. Applicants from India often face long waiting periods due to high demand, particularly in employment-based and family-based categories.

Step 4: File Form I-485 or Consular Processing

Once a visa becomes available, applicants can proceed with either:

• Adjustment of Status (Form I-485): If already in the U.S., they can apply for a Green Card without leaving the country.
• Consular Processing: If outside the U.S., they must attend an interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate.

Step 5: Biometrics and Interview

Applicants must provide fingerprints, photographs, and a signature. USCIS may also schedule an interview to verify eligibility.

Step 6: Receive the Green Card

If approved, the applicant will receive their U.S. Green Card, granting them US permanent resident status.

Documents Required for a US Green Card

The specific documents required depend on the type of Green Card application. However, common documents include:

• Valid passport
• Birth certificate
• Marriage certificate (if applicable)
• Proof of sponsor’s U.S. citizenship or Green Card status
• Proof of employment (for job-based applications)
• Investment proof (for EB-5 applicants)
• Medical examination report (Form I-693)
• Affidavit of Support (Form I-864) for family-sponsored applications
• Police clearance certificate (if required)

Processing Time for a US Green Card

The processing time for a US Green Card for Indians varies depending on the category and country quota. Some common wait times include:

• Family-sponsored Green Cards: Can take anywhere from 1 to 20 years, depending on the relationship type
• Employment-based Green Cards: EB-1 can take 1-3 years, while EB-2 and EB-3 may take several years due to backlog
• EB-5 Investor Green Card: Typically takes 2-3 years

Costs Involved in Applying for a US Green Card

The total cost for applying for a US Green Card depends on the category. Here are some estimated costs:

• Form I-130 (Family-based): $535
• Form I-140 (Employment-based): $700
• Form I-526 (Investor-based): $3,675
• Form I-485 (Adjustment of Status): $1,140 + $85 (biometrics)
• Consular Processing Fees: Varies based on the embassy and category

Benefits of a US Green Card

Holding a US Green Card offers several advantages:

• Legal permanent residency in the U.S.
• Ability to work for any employer
• Access to social security benefits
• Easier travel and re-entry to the U.S.
• Eligibility for U.S. citizenship after five years
• Sponsorship opportunities for family members

Final Thoughts

Securing a US Green Card for Indians is a complex but rewarding process. Whether through family, employment, investment, or other means, understanding the Green Card USA requirements is crucial. If you are considering applying, ensure you follow the right steps, prepare the necessary documents, and consult an immigration expert if needed. By doing so, you can successfully navigate the immigration process and achieve your goal of becoming a US permanent resident.

If you’re interested in learning more about how to apply for a US Green Card, visit the official USCIS website or seek professional legal assistance for guidance.