If you already have a green card, click here.

​

Whether you are seeking a green card, or you are trying to help a relative or friend, you must follow two steps below:

​

1. In order to bring someone to the U.S., they must have an immigrant visa. After getting a visa number, they will be able to apply for permanent residency; see step 2 below.

   • If you are having a family member sponsor you, use the I-130 (info).

     • The submission costs $535, paid with a money order, personal check, or cashier’s check.

   • If you are being sponsored by your place of work, use the I-140 (info).

     • The submission costs $700, paid with a money order, personal check, or cashier’s check.

​

1.  If you are already in the U.S. legally, you need to adjust your status to Legal Permanent Residency; use form I-485 (info).

   • The form costs $1,225, and there is no fee waiver. You can submit payment by money order, personal check, or cashier’s check. Please note: if you came to the U.S. as a refugee, there is no cost to submit the form.

   • You will have to go to a biometrics appointment, so that the USCIS can conduct a background check.

​

You will receive your decision back later--this may take a long time, and may require a subsequent interview. If you are approved, congratulations! You should receive your green card by mail shortly.

​

Once you have a green card, there will be a period of waiting until you are eligible to apply for citizenship. If you are curious about when you will be eligible, look here.