- People migrate to the US for better economic opportunities, educational opportunities, and overall quality of life.
- There are two main paths to becoming a permanent resident of the United States – through family or employment sponsorship.
- Three primary criteria must be met – admission into the US legally, valid reasons for staying, and no criminal history.
- To apply for permanent residency, one must determine eligibility, choose a pathway, submit an application, and wait for approval/denial.
Are you looking to make the United States your permanent home? Becoming a permanent resident in the US can be complex and intimidating. But it can be an achievable goal with the proper guidance and preparation. This guide will walk you through the steps of getting permanent residency in the US so that you can take the first step toward living your American Dream.
Why do people like to Migrate to the US?
Every year, millions of people from around the world make the decision to migrate to the United States. There are many reasons why they choose this path, and while some may be more obvious than others, there is no denying that life in the US is attractive to many.
One of the most common reasons for migrating to America is that it offers more excellent opportunities than many other countries. People from developing countries or regions with few job prospects may choose to move to the US for better economic opportunities. This can include everything from access to better jobs and more competitive wages, as well as access to better housing options, educational opportunities, and overall quality of life.
For many immigrants, moving to the US also means finding stability in their lives that might otherwise have been lacking back home. Countries with a history of political or civil unrest can be difficult places to live, making moving elsewhere an attractive option.
Obtaining US Residency
It’s important to note that obtaining US residency can vary depending on your background and current situation. Generally speaking, there are two main paths to becoming a permanent resident of the United States: through family or employment sponsorship.
Determine Your Eligibility
The first step is determining whether you are eligible for permanent residency in the US. The requirements vary depending on your specific situation and what country you are from, but generally speaking, three primary criteria must be met to become a permanent resident: You must have been legally admitted into the US, have a valid reason for staying, and have no criminal history.
Choose a Pathway
Once you’ve determined that you’re eligible for permanent residence, it’s time to decide which pathway is best for you—family-based immigration, employment-based immigration, diversity visa lottery, or other special categories such as refugee status or asylum seekers.
Each one has its own requirements and processes that must be followed to apply successfully. It’s important to research beforehand to know what documentation is needed and how long it might take before your application is approved or denied.
Apply for Advance Parole
If you’re already in the US and applying for permanent residency, you may be required to apply for advance parole before processing your application. This document grants permission for you to travel outside of the United States while waiting for your permanent residence status to be finalized. This step is not required for all applicants, but knowing if you need to take it is essential to avoid delays or complications in your application process.
Submit Your Application
Once you’ve selected a pathway and gathered all the necessary documents, it’s time to submit your application for permanent residency. Depending on which route you take—family-based or employment-based—there may be additional forms that need to be filled out in addition to submitting your primary application package. It’s essential to double-check all paperwork before submitting it, as any mistakes could delay or even deny your application status.
Wait For Approval/Denial
Once your application has been submitted, all left to do is wait for approval or denial of your request for permanent residence in the US. This process usually takes several months but can take up to a year, depending on where you are applying, if any changes are made during processing, etc. During this time, it’s essential not to leave the country without approval as this could lead to denial of entry should you try and return later on down the line!
Start a Life in the US!
Becoming a permanent resident of the United States isn’t easy, but with dedication and perseverance, it’s achievable! By following these four steps outlined above – determining eligibility, choosing a pathway, submitting an application, and waiting for approval/denial – anyone can get started on their journey towards attaining their American Dream! So don’t wait any longer – start taking these steps today!
