How Long Does It Take for an Indian Citizen to Get a Green Card?
Obtaining a green card can be a lengthy and complex process, especially for applicants from countries with high demand like India. The time it takes can vary significantly based on the type of green card, the country of origin, and current processing times. This article aims to provide an overview of the typical processing time for green cards and the factors that can influence the duration.
General Processing Time for Green Cards
The processing time for a green card can range from a few months to several years. This can be influenced by a variety of factors including the type of green card, the country of origin, and the current processing times. For Indian applicants, the wait time can be particularly prolonged due to high demand. The U.S. Department of State (DOS) issues a monthly visa bulletin which provides a general idea of the wait times for different types of visas.
Green Card Types and Processing Duration
There are several types of green cards, each with its own specific requirements and processing times. Here's a breakdown of some common green card types and the typical time it takes to obtain one:
EB-1
The EB-1 category is for individuals of extraordinary ability, outstanding professors and researchers, and certain multinational executives and managers. If your priority date is current, the processing time might be a year or less. However, for Indians, the wait time can be significantly longer due to high demand.
EB-2
The EB-2 category is for individuals with advanced degrees or exceptional ability in the sciences, arts, or business. Currently, the wait time for Indian applicants is around 10-12 years based on the visa bulletin.
EB-3
The EB-3 category is for professionals with a bachelor's degree, skilled workers, and other workers. The wait time for EB-3 can be around 12-15 years, again due to high demand.
Factors Affecting Green Card Processing Time
Several factors can impact the processing time of a green card application. These include:
Country of Origin: High-demand countries like India may have longer wait times due to limited visa slots. Visa Bulletin: The visa bulletin issued by the U.S. Department of State provides a general idea of the wait times for each category. Prioritize Date: The priority date is a critical factor that determines when an applicant can apply for adjustment of status or visa processing. The priority date is based on the date your application was received, or in the case of employment-based green cards, the date of your job offer. Continuous Presence: Applicants must maintain continuous physical presence in the United States to remain in status and avoid jeopardizing their application for naturalization.Additional Considerations
Obtaining a green card is just the beginning. You'll need to wait an additional five years (or three years if you obtained your green card through marriage to a U.S. citizen) before you can apply for naturalization. The naturalization process itself can be another extensive endeavor, requiring significant time and preparation.
Real-World Examples
A real-world example can illustrate the variability of green card processing times. For instance, my sister applied for a green card after living in the USA for 10 years, while her brother-in-law obtained his green card after living in the USA for 15 years and became a U.S. citizen two years later. The average wait time for an Indian applicant can vary between 10-15 years, depending on the type of green card and visa bulletin updates.
Conclusion
The green card application process can be a long and demanding journey. While accurate information can be found on the USCIS website or from an immigration attorney, it's essential to understand the various factors that impact processing times. For Indian citizens, the wait can be particularly extensive, often stretching beyond a decade.