Getting a green card (permanent residence)
There are three realistic routes: a family member, an employer, or the diversity lottery. Waits range from months to well over a decade depending on the category and your country of birth.
There are three realistic routes: a family member, an employer, or the diversity lottery. Waits range from months to well over a decade depending on the category and your country of birth.
Key points to understand
Family-based, employment-based, and the annual Diversity Visa lottery
Family-based, employment-based, and the annual Diversity Visa lottery. In practice, this is one of the details newcomers most often ask about, so take a moment to understand how it applies to your situation before moving on.
Why per-country caps mean the wait depends on where you were born, not just your category
Why per-country caps mean the wait depends on where you were born, not just your category. In practice, this is one of the details newcomers most often ask about, so take a moment to understand how it applies to your situation before moving on.
The Visa Bulletin tells you where the queue actually is — learn to read it
The Visa Bulletin tells you where the queue actually is — learn to read it. In practice, this is one of the details newcomers most often ask about, so take a moment to understand how it applies to your situation before moving on.
Practical tips
- Prepare your documents and translations in advance — most delays come from missing paperwork.
- Always note the office name, address, and a contact number before you go.
- Ask the community on MyHAbroad if you’re unsure — chances are someone has already been through it.
Always verify with official sources before acting on the information above.
MyHAbroad is an independent app and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or representing any government or public authority. Content is general information only — not legal, tax, medical, or financial advice. Always confirm details with the official sources above before acting.