Application方法

Detailed explanation of Application方法 based on official information from USCIS・国務省. Social Insurance (Five Insurances & One Fund)

Published: January 12, 2026

Green Card Application: A Comprehensive Guide

1. Overview

A Green Card (officially known as a Permanent Resident Card) is the primary document proving an individual's lawful permanent resident status in the United States. It grants the holder the right to live and work permanently in the U.S., with a path to eventual U.S. citizenship. The Green Card application process is a fundamental component of U.S. immigration, allowing individuals to establish permanent roots, access most employment opportunities, and enjoy many of the rights and responsibilities of U.S. citizens, with some exceptions like voting in federal elections.

2. Applicable Objects & Scenarios

The Green Card application process applies to foreign nationals seeking to become lawful permanent residents of the United States. Common scenarios include:

  • Family Sponsorship: For immediate relatives (spouses, unmarried children under 21, parents) of U.S. citizens, or other family members (married children, siblings) subject to visa availability.
  • Employment Sponsorship: For individuals offered permanent employment in the U.S., including priority workers, professionals, skilled/unskilled workers, and special immigrants.
  • Refugee or Asylee Status: Individuals granted refugee or asylum status in the U.S. are eligible to apply for a Green Card one year after their admission or grant of status.
  • Diversity Visa Lottery: Winners of the annual Diversity Immigrant Visa Program.
  • Other Special Categories: Including victims of abuse/crime (VAWA, U visa), long-term residents, and investors (EB-5).

3. Core Conclusions

  • The process is complex and varies significantly depending on the category under which you are applying (family, employment, etc.).
  • Processing times can be lengthy, often taking several months to years, and are influenced by application category, country of chargeability, and USCIS caseloads.
  • Most applications require a sponsoring petitioner (a family member or employer) who must meet specific eligibility and financial requirements.
  • All applicants must be admissible to the United States, meaning they must pass background checks, medical examinations, and not fall under grounds of inadmissibility.
  • Maintaining lawful status during the application process is critical, though some categories have provisions for adjustment of status even if current status has expired.

4. Procedures & Steps

The exact steps differ by category, but a general framework for a family or employment-based application where the beneficiary is in the U.S. (Adjustment of Status) includes:

Step 1: Preparation

  • Determine Eligibility: Identify the correct Green Card category (e.g., IR-1, F2A, EB-2).
  • Petitioner Action: The U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident family member, or the U.S. employer, must typically file a petition first.
    • For family: Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative.
    • For employment: Form I-140, Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker (filed by employer).
  • Wait for Visa Availability: For categories with annual limits, you must wait until a visa number is available (your "priority date" is current), as indicated on the Department of State's Visa Bulletin.

Step 2: Application & Submission

  • File the Green Card Application: Once a visa is available (or concurrently if allowed), the applicant files Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status.
  • Submit Supporting Documents: This includes government-issued ID, birth certificate, passport, immigration history, Form I-94, court/criminal records (if applicable), medical examination Form I-693 (sealed), and proof of the qualifying relationship or job offer.
  • Submit Fees: Pay the required, non-refundable filing fees. Please verify the exact fee amounts with official sources as they are subject to change.
  • Biometrics Appointment: After filing, USCIS will schedule an appointment to collect fingerprints, photograph, and signature.

Step 3: Review & Confirmation

  • Interview: Most applicants will be scheduled for an in-person interview at a USCIS field office. Both the petitioner and applicant (beneficiary) may need to attend.
  • Decision: USCIS will adjudicate the application. Possible outcomes are approval, a Request for Evidence (RFE), or denial.
  • Receipt of Green Card: Upon approval, the applicant will receive their Permanent Resident Card by mail.

(Note: For consular processing, where the applicant is outside the U.S., the process involves the National Visa Center and a U.S. Embassy/Consulate interview after the I-130/I-140 is approved.)

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How long does it take to get a Green Card? A: Processing times vary dramatically based on category, country, and service center. It can range from under a year for immediate relatives of U.S. citizens to many years for categories with high demand and low annual limits.

Q2: Can I work or travel while my Green Card application is pending? A: Yes, but you must apply for authorization. File Form I-765 for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) and Form I-131 for Advance Parole (travel document). Travel without advance parole may abandon your application.

Q3: What is the difference between a Green Card and U.S. citizenship? A: Green Card holders are permanent residents but remain citizens of another country. They cannot vote in federal elections or hold certain government jobs. Citizenship (naturalization) grants full rights and responsibilities, including a U.S. passport and voting rights.

Q4: Do I need a lawyer to apply for a Green Card? A: It is not legally required, but the process is complex. An experienced immigration attorney can help navigate eligibility, paperwork, and potential issues, which is highly recommended for complicated cases.

Q5: What happens if my Green Card application is denied? A: You will receive a notice explaining the reasons for denial. You may have the option to appeal the decision (Form I-290B) or, in some cases, file a motion to reopen or reconsider.

Q6: How do I check my application status? A: Use the receipt number from your USCIS filing notices to check your case status online at the USCIS Case Status Online tracker.

6. Risks & Compliance

  • Accuracy is Critical: Providing false information or omitting material facts on immigration forms is fraud, which can lead to permanent denial, deportation, and a permanent bar from the U.S.
  • Maintain Status: If you are in the U.S., it is imperative to maintain your nonimmigrant status (if applicable) until you file Form I-485, unless you are in a category that is exempt from this requirement.
  • Beware of Scams: Only use information from official government websites (.gov). Do not pay anyone who promises guaranteed approval or expedited processing outside of official USCIS channels.
  • Consult Professionals: This guide provides general information. Immigration law is complex and changes. For personal legal advice, consult a qualified immigration attorney or an accredited representative.

7. References & Sources

8. Related Topics

  • U.S. Citizenship and Naturalization
  • Employment Authorization Document (EAD)
  • Advance Parole Travel Document
  • Conditional Permanent Residence (Removing Conditions)
  • Reentry Permit for Permanent Residents
  • Affidavit of Support (Form I-864)
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