Permanent residency in the United States, commonly known as the Green Card, is a document coveted by many foreigners who wish to settle permanently in the country. However, obtaining it is not a simple process and requires compliance with a series of requirements established by the U.S. immigration authorities.

One of the key aspects to obtain the Green Card is to comply with the requirement of continuous residence in U.S. territory. According to the current regulations you need the following: 

• Live in the U.S. continuously for at least five years.
• Not have been out of the country on a trip for more than six months. However, this period is reduced to three years for those who have married a U.S. citizen.
• They must also demonstrate good moral character during their stay. This includes not having committed serious crimes or been involved in illegal activities.
• Applicants must demonstrate that they will not be a financial burden to the Government and that they earn sufficient resources to subsist without being dependent on others. In addition to the above, knowledge of the U.S. language and culture must be demonstrated.
• Those between the ages of 18 and 65 must pass a civics test and an English language test to demonstrate proficiency in both areas.

Special cases in which there is a shorter wait to apply for permanent residence

In certain situations, the waiting period to apply for permanent residence may be shorter. For example, in family-based petitions, unmarried children under the age of 21 of a U.S. citizen are eligible immediately, without requiring a prior period of residency. This rule also applies to parents of U.S. citizens, as long as the child is at least 21 years old.

The residency period varies on a case-by-case basis. For example, individuals with asylee or refugee status must wait at least one year after obtaining such status to apply for a Green Card. Likewise, it applies to those covered by the Registration Act, who must have resided in the country since before January 1, 1972 to be eligible.

How to apply for permanent residence in the United States?

The application process for permanent residency includes completing Form I-485, also known as the Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjustment of Status. Once this form is filed, applicants must undergo an interview with an immigration officer and a biometric examination, which includes fingerprinting and photographs.

Upon completion of all steps and if the application is approved by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), the applicant will receive his or her Green Card, which will grant permanent resident status in the United States.

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