How Long Does It Really Take to Get a Green Card?

Baking AI
Nov 5
3 min read

Updated: Nov 6

The time it takes to get a Green Card in the United States depends on your immigration category, country of origin, and the backlog at U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Each applicant’s path is different. Some receive approval in months, while others wait several years.

This guide explains how long it usually takes, the steps involved, and what can delay or speed up your case.

Typical Green Card Processing Times

Processing time depends on whether you apply from inside or outside the United States.

1. Adjustment of Status (inside the U.S.) If you are already in the U.S. on a visa, you can file Form I-485 to adjust status. The process usually takes 8 to 14 months from the time USCIS receives your application.

2. Consular Processing (outside the U.S.) If you apply through a U.S. consulate abroad, expect 12 to 30 months, depending on the consulate’s workload and your case type.

Green Card Categories and Timeframes

Immediate Relatives of U.S. Citizens Spouses, parents, and unmarried children under 21 of U.S. citizens have the shortest wait. There is no annual visa cap, so most cases are approved within 8 to 12 months. Learn more about Spouse & Fiancé(e) Visas (IR/CR-1, K-1, K-3) and Parents, Children & Siblings.

Family Preference Categories These include siblings and adult children of U.S. citizens or Green Card holders. The wait can stretch from 2 to over 15 years, depending on visa limits and your country of chargeability.

Employment-Based Green Cards Processing can take 1 to 3 years, depending on the employer’s sponsorship and Department of Labor certification.

Humanitarian Programs Those applying under humanitarian categories like Asylum, U Visa, T Visa, VAWA, or SIJ often face longer timelines due to background checks and case reviews.

Marriage-Based Green Cards If you are married to a U.S. citizen, you can usually expect approval in 10 to 18 months. Those married to Green Card holders may wait longer due to annual visa limits.

Removing Conditions on Residence If you received a conditional Green Card through marriage, you must file to remove conditions after two years. Learn more about Removing Conditions on Residence (I-751).

Factors That Affect Processing Time

Incomplete applications cause delays.
Requests for Evidence (RFEs) extend timelines.
Backlogs in visa categories for high-demand countries (India, China, Mexico, Philippines).
Background checks and security clearances.
USCIS office workload varies by region.

How to Track Your Green Card Application

You can check your case status anytime on the USCIS website using your receipt number. Regularly reviewing updates helps you stay aware of potential RFEs or requests for interviews.

Ways to Avoid Delays

Double-check all forms before submission.
Include all required documents and translation if applicable.
Attend scheduled biometrics and interviews promptly.
Respond to USCIS notices within the deadline.
Consult an immigration attorney if your case seems delayed or complicated.

After You Receive Your Green Card

Once approved, you become a lawful permanent resident. You can live and work freely in the U.S. and later apply for U.S. Citizenship & Naturalization after meeting residency requirements.