What does an immigrant need to live in the US?

To immigrate to the United States means to relocate permanently by obtaining a green card (officially known as an “immigrant visa” or “lawful permanent residence”). A green card allows unrestricted employment and can be renewed indefinitely. It also provides a pathway to U.S. citizenship.

How long can you stay in the US as an immigrant?

six months
The quick answer to the question of how long a visitor can lawfully stay in the United States for most people is six months. To be more precise, once an admission is determined to be “fair and reasonable,” the default position is that the visitor is granted a six month time period to stay.

How can I live in the US legally?

Generally, the following requirements must be met to be eligible:

1. You must be at least 18 years of age at the time that you apply (Application for Naturalization)
2. You must have lived in the USA for at least five years as a permanent resident (Green Card holder) or for 3 years if married to and living with a US citizen.

How long can you stay in the US without a visa?

90 days
Overview. The Visa Waiver Program (VWP) enables most citizens or nationals of participating countries* to travel to the United States for tourism or business for stays of 90 days or less without obtaining a visa.

What’s the difference between Green Card and citizenship?

U.S. citizenship is the highest status someone can attain under U.S. immigration law. It means a truly permanent right to live in the United States. Citizens are not subject to the grounds of deportability that affect green card holders.

How is immigration process?

Essential Steps to Get an Immigrant Visa

1. In most cases, someone must sponsor you or file an immigrant petition for you.
2. Wait until the petition is approved and a visa is available in your category. Then apply for an immigrant visa.
3. Get a medical examination.
4. Go to an interview.
5. Wait for a decision on your application.

What are the legal requirements to legalize an illegal immigrant?

If you are residing–because of illegal crossing or an expired visa–in the United States as an illegal immigrant, you must obtain legalization thru your family (if permanent residents or American citizens), your place of employment, the United States military, thru marriage or from an educational endeavor.

When does an intending immigrant become a lawful permanent resident?

An intending immigrant becomes a lawful permanent resident once the immigrant visa and accompanying paperwork is reviewed and endorsed by a CBP Officer. For specific information regarding immigrant visa classifications and requirements, refer to the USCIS website or the Department of State website.

What are the basic principles of immigration law?

Immigration law in the United States has been built upon the following principles: the reunification of families, admitting immigrants with skills that are valuable to the U.S. economy, protecting refugees, and promoting diversity. This fact sheet provides basic information about how the U.S. legal immigration system is designed and functions.

How many people can immigrate to the United States each year?

The Immigration and Naturalization Act (INA), the body of law governing current immigration policy, provides for an annual worldwide limit of 675,000 permanent immigrants, with certain exceptions for close family members. Lawful permanent residency allows a foreign national to work and live lawfully and permanently in the United States.