As a foreign national, there are several ways through which you can become a U.S. green card holder and lawfully live and work permanently. This article will show you how to get a green card in the USA without marriage.
Categories of Green Card Eligibility
Broadly speaking, green card eligibility can be categorized into three different groups:
1. Family-based green cards for spouses, parents, siblings, and dependent children of U.S. citizens and permanent residents.
2. Employment-based green cards.
3. Special immigrant green card.
Employment-Based Green Card
The marriage-based green card is one of the most popular routes to becoming a U.S. permanent resident. However, since not all immigrant visa applicants have marriage ties to U.S. citizens or permanent residents, foreign nationals with the right skill sets, competence, special abilities, and outstanding academic qualifications are given a chance to live and work permanently in the U.S. using several different methods, starting with employment-based immigrant visas.
Each year, tens of thousands of employment-based green cards are issued to foreign nationals. Typically, employment-based green cards are given to foreign nationals who have job offers from a U.S. employer. Most of these green cards are sponsored by employers or prospective employers. Both foreign nationals who are already in the U.S. or are outside the U.S. may file for an employment-based visa if they are already working for an employer or they have received a job offer from a prospective employer.
Company Transfer Green Card
The U.S. immigration system allows foreign employees to transfer to their company’s U.S. office and live in the country. So, for example, if you are employed by a multinational corporation in Vietnam and you are offered a job in Los Angeles at the same company, you may be eligible to work and live in the U.S.
A company transfer visa is also known as an L-1 visa. The employee must have worked for a subsidiary, parent, affiliate, or branch office of the U.S. company outside of the U.S. for at least one year out of the last three years.
The L-1 visa has two subcategories: L-1A for executives and managers, and L-1B for workers with specialized knowledge. After a period of time, L-1 visa holders may apply for a green card and become permanent residents without having to leave the U.S. This makes the L-1 visa a popular choice for professionals looking to move to the U.S. permanently.
Special Immigrant Green Card
If you don’t meet the eligibility requirements for a marriage-based or employment-based green card, The United States offers a unique immigration category known as the Special Immigrant Green Card. You may be qualified to apply as a special immigrant. This is another route to getting a green card in the USA without marriage.
To qualify for a Special Immigrant Green Card, you must meet certain criteria. One of the most common qualifications is being a religious worker. This includes ministers, religious broadcasters, and other individuals who are involved in some capacity with a religious organization.
The process of applying for a Special Immigrant Green Card involves several steps, including submitting an application, undergoing a background check, and attending an interview. It’s important to note that the process can be complex and time-consuming, so it’s recommended to seek legal advice to ensure you meet all the requirements and follow the correct procedures.
Conclusion
There are several options to get a green card in the U.S. without marriage. These include self-petition and employment-based green cards. Other types of green cards are investment-based, special immigrant, family-based, and Diversity Visa (DV) lottery green cards. In unique situations, green cards are issued to diplomats, refugees/asylees, victims of a crime, and long-term unofficial residents.
By understanding these different pathways, you can find the best route for you to obtain a green card in the USA without marriage. Always consult with an immigration attorney to understand your options and navigate the complex immigration process.
FAQs
What are the categories of green card eligibility?
There are three broad categories: Family-based, Employment-based, and Special Immigrant green cards.
Can I get a green card in the USA without marriage?
Yes, there are several ways to get a green card without marriage, such as through employment, company transfer, or as a special immigrant.
What is an Employment-Based Green Card?
Employment-Based Green Cards are issued to foreign nationals who have job offers from a U.S. employer. Most of these green cards are sponsored by employers or prospective employers.
What is a Company Transfer Green Card?
Also known as an L-1 visa, this allows foreign employees of multinational corporations to transfer to their company’s U.S. office and live in the country.
What is a Special Immigrant Green Card?
This is a unique immigration category for individuals who don’t meet the eligibility requirements for a marriage-based or employment-based green card. One common qualification is being a religious worker.
