The Green Card Test determines whether you qualify for residency status for tax purposes. You will also need to take a medical exam and submit your results. This test is performed by a USCIS-approved civil surgeon or military physician. The Green Card Test is an Immigration Test that determines whether or not you are a lawful permanent resident of the United States You are a Lawful Permanent Resident (LPR) if you have received a green card, and you haven’t had your immigrant status revoked or abandoned in writing by the USCIS. If you have a green card, your residency starting date is the first day of the calendar year that you became an LPR.
How to Qualify for a Green Card?
Green cards are a popular way to live and work in the United States. They give foreigners permanent resident status, which means they can move to the country and live here indefinitely. They can also apply to become US citizens after 3 or 5 years. To qualify for a Green Card, you must meet certain requirements:
- First, you must have a family member who is willing to sponsor your application forms.
- The person must be a US citizen or permanent resident, and they need to be financially capable of supporting you for the first few months after you get your green card.
- Then, you must undergo a medical exam with an authorized doctor. This medical exam will help the doctor determine if you have any health conditions that may make getting a green card difficult.
- Your physician will examine you, listen to your heart and lungs, and ask about any medications or other health issues you have. They will also check your vaccination history and drug use record.
- Depending on your age and health, you may need a tuberculosis test. This requires a blood test called an interferon-gamma release assay (IGRA).
- If the results of this test are positive, you will be required to have a chest X-ray. This is required of all green card applicants aged 15 and older.
- If you have had a tuberculosis infection in the past, you will need to show proof that it has been cured or is under control. You will also need to show that you have a regular doctor who can sign a letter stating that your illness is under control and being treated.
- If you have a mental illness associated with violence or other threats of harm, you may be denied a Green Card. This includes drug abuse and alcohol, too.
What is the Fastest Way to Get a Green Card?
Some green cards are more readily available than others, but most require time, patience, and a lot of legwork. There are also yearly caps on certain family-based immigration categories, meaning some applicants will only be processed one year after applying.
- The fastest way to get a green card is through the annual Green Card Lottery. Those who qualify for this visa are often given priority status and can get their green cards within a matter of months.
- Another option is employer-sponsored green cards, which are available through various business visas. These are typically issued to people who have a job offer from an employer in the United States.
- Individuals who are not reliant on a job offer can also self-petition for an EB-2 green card through a national interest waiver. This route is especially appealing for professionals with a special skill or ability that is in demand and has substantial merit to the U.S.
- Finally, the EB-3 pathway is also a fast and efficient method for getting a green card through employment. However, this path is more competitive than the EB-2 route and has a yearly cap of 55,000.
Regardless of your green card route, it is vital to stay on top of the latest immigration news and understand the implications of USCIS decisions. Boundless can help you save 30+ hours of work, create an immigration plan, and keep you on track until you achieve your goal.
