Independent · Updated 2026 · Official sources cited
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US · 🛂 PR / Immigration Visa

United States: Green Card (Permanent Residence)

Permanent residence via employment, family sponsorship, the Diversity Visa lottery or investment (EB-5).

Visa fee: From USD 1,440 (varies by category) Processing time: Months to years depending on category and country of birth Validity: 10-year card, renewable; permanent status
Quick answer

The United States Green Card (Permanent Residence) is for pr / immigration visitors — Costs From USD 1,440 (varies by category), takes Months to years depending on category and country of birth.

Visa fee From USD 1,440 (varies by category)
Processing time Months to years depending on category and country of birth
Validity 10-year card, renewable; permanent status

Last reviewed August 2026 · figures indicative, verify with the official source.

Overview

A Green Card grants permanent residence in the U.S. The main routes are family sponsorship, employment (EB-1 to EB-3), the Diversity Visa lottery, and investment (EB-5). Most employment routes require a labor certification (PERM) and an approved I-140 petition.

Eligibility

  • Family: sponsored by a U.S. citizen or permanent-resident relative
  • Employment: a qualifying job offer + labor certification (EB-2/EB-3) or extraordinary ability (EB-1)
  • Investment: EB-5 investment of USD 800,000+ creating jobs
  • Diversity: selection in the annual DV lottery

Required documents

  • Approved petition (I-130 family / I-140 employment)
  • Priority date current on the Visa Bulletin
  • Form I-485 (adjustment) or immigrant visa (DS-260) abroad
  • Medical exam and biometrics

How to apply

  1. Sponsor files the petition (I-130 or I-140)
  2. Wait for your priority date to become current
  3. File I-485 (in the U.S.) or process an immigrant visa (abroad)
  4. Attend biometrics/interview and receive your Green Card

Work rights & conditions

Unrestricted right to live and work anywhere in the U.S.; path to citizenship after 5 years.
Verify

Please verify before applying. Fees, processing times and rules change frequently and can vary by nationality. Always confirm the latest requirements on the official government source. Official source: www.uscis.gov.

Frequently asked questions

How much does the United States pr / immigration visa cost?

The Green Card (Permanent Residence) costs From USD 1,440 (varies by category). Fees are indicative and can change — always confirm the current amount on the official source.

How long does the United States pr / immigration visa take to process?

Typical processing time is Months to years depending on category and country of birth. Times vary by nationality, season and how complete your application is.

How long can I stay on the United States pr / immigration visa?

This visa generally allows a stay of 10-year card, renewable; permanent status.

Can I work on the United States pr / immigration visa?

Unrestricted right to live and work anywhere in the U.S.; path to citizenship after 5 years.

Who is eligible for the United States pr / immigration visa?

Family: sponsored by a U.S. citizen or permanent-resident relative. Employment: a qualifying job offer + labor certification (EB-2/EB-3) or extraordinary ability (EB-1). Investment: EB-5 investment of USD 800,000+ creating jobs. Diversity: selection in the annual DV lottery.

Where do I apply for the United States pr / immigration visa?

Applications are made through the official government portal. VisaViews links directly to the official source on this page so you always start in the right place.

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