The US visa system is known for its complexity, slowness, and inefficiency. These issues have only compounded as demand for green cards soars to new heights and backlogs reach eye-watering levels.
A green card is the most effective ticket to a new life in America. It is a permanent, all-inclusive residence permit that allows you to live, work, and study with most of the same rights as US citizens.
Marriage to a US citizen is one of the common routes to a green card. But you might be wondering how to get a green card in the USA without marriage. Here’s what you need to know.
How to Get a Green Card in the USA Without Marriage with Other Family
Marriage is not the only way to get a green card through family ties. If you have a blood relative who is a US citizen or a lawful permanent resident, you may qualify. However, restrictions apply.
If you are a child of a US citizen and you are under the age of 21, or the parent of a citizen and you are over the age of 21, you quality. If you are a sibling of a US citizen or a widow/widower of a US citizen, you also qualify for a green card.
Employment and Investment
If you have no blood ties to the United States, you can apply directly to USCIS for an investor or employment-related green card.
As an investor, capital requirements are very high. You will usually need to invest at least $800,000 in a specific industry, and your investment must create at least ten new, full-time positions for American workers.
As an employee, there are several tiers of candidates in order of preference. Top of the list are those deemed to have “exceptional abilities” in the arts, sciences, business, or athletics. Highly skilled and educated workers make up the remaining tiers.
What If You’re About to Be Deported?
Let’s say you are already in the US, and your legal residency is expiring or has already expired.
If you are about to be deported, you may still have options for staying in the country and beginning your path toward getting a green card. You should contact an immigration lawyer who specializes in the cancellation of removal for non-permanent residents.
They will walk you through your options and, if needed, deal with ICE to halt deportation proceedings and begin to normalize your status. If you meet the criteria to remain, you may be successful. For legal assistance in New York, consider reaching out to immigration lawyers New York.
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Stay On Top of the Politics That Affect You
The question of how to get a green card in the USA without marriage is multifaceted. It may depend on your familial ties, your abilities, or your income. One thing that is certain is that these requirements change, often depending on the politics of the day.
To stay on top of the politics in America that affect you, we’ve got you covered. Our Politics pages offer you the insight and breaking news you need to stay on top of the developments that impact you directly.
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