How to Get a US Green Card and Citizenship: The Ultimate Guide

Whatever your personal views on the United States, love it or hate it, the ‘land of the free’ remains one of the world’s most popular destinations for those seeking opportunity, prosperity and protection. 

And for millions, the Green Card is the answer to achieving their American dream.

A century after the Immigration Act of 1924 first imposed limits on immigration, securing a Green Card remains highly competitive, with only 3% of applicants gaining approval.

Every green card hopeful must contend with tough eligibility requirements, and of course, the caps make overcoming the process even more difficult.

Although we’re known for railing against the frustrating constraints of the US tax system and its citizenship-based taxation model, for millions of people around the world, America remains as alluring as ever.

As of 2023, there are around 12.7 million US green card holders.

If you want to join their ranks, this article explores how you can get a Green Card in the US, what the requirements are, the documents you’ll need and the process involved.

The US Green Card: an Overview

For decades, the US Green Card has been a symbol of opportunity and freedom for millions of immigrants. But the Green Card wasn’t always what it is today. Its form and function have evolved significantly since its origins in the early 20th century.

The Immigration Act of 1924 required immigrants to obtain visas before entering the country and established quotas on their issue.  

Then, in 1950, the Internal Security Act introduced the concept of the green card, which earned the nickname due to its colour. This document served as official proof of lawful permanent resident status, granting immigrants the right to live and work in the United States indefinitely.

Later legislation abolished the origin quotas and established preferences based on family reunification and the skills of immigrants, significantly impacting green card allocations.

Today, a green card is officially titled ‘a United States permanent residence permit’. 

It qualifies you for specific rights and responsibilities, including the right to live and work in the US, with an obligation to file your income tax returns. It is also a necessary step if you want to become naturalised as a US citizen.

Green Card Benefits

Obtaining a US Green Card is a significant milestone for many immigrants seeking to establish a new life in the US. It comes with a host of benefits:

• Right to Live and Work in the US
• Employment Opportunities
• Pathway to Citizenship
• Eligibility for Naturalisation
• Access to Education and Benefits
• Reunification Opportunities
• Ease of Re-entry

For many, the Green Card represents not just legal status but also a significant step toward achieving the American dream.

The US has long been a beacon of opportunity for individuals from all walks of life.

For entrepreneurs and high-net-worth individuals, in particular, the appeal of the US is its robust economy – from technology hubs like Silicon Valley to the financial centres of New York.

How to Get a Green Card in the US

Officially titled the United States Permanent Residence Permit, the Green Card awards official immigration status in the United States. 

It qualifies you for specific rights and responsibilities, including the right to live and work in the US, with an obligation to file your income tax returns and is also a necessary step if you want to become naturalised as a US citizen.

Eligibility Requirements for Green Card Application

You can qualify for a Green Card as a foreign national in numerous ways, including family membership, employment, and special immigration status. 

Family Membership

You can become a Green Card holder if you are one of the following:

• Spouse of a US citizen
• Unmarried child under the age of 21 of a US citizen
• Parent of a US citizen who is at least 21 years old
• Unmarried son or daughter of a US citizen who is 21 years old or older
• Married son or daughter of a US citizen
• Brother or sister of a US citizen who is at least 21 years old
• Spouse of a lawful permanent resident
• Unmarried child under the age of 21 of a lawful permanent resident
• Unmarried son or daughter of a lawful permanent resident 21 years old or older
• Fiancé(e) of a US citizen (via a K-1 Visa)
• Child of a fiancé of a US citizen (via a K-2 Visa)
• Widow or widower of a US citizen who was married to your US citizen spouse at the time your spouse died
• Abused spouse of a US citizen or permanent resident
• Abused child (unmarried and under 21 years old) of a US citizen or permanent resident
• Abused parent of a US citizen.

Employment

You can apply for a Green Card and permanent resident status if you are one of the following:

• Immigrant worker
• A physician who consents to work full-time in clinical practice in a designated underserved area for a fixed period
• Immigrant investor.

Special Immigration

You qualify to become a Green Card holder and permanent resident status if you are a:

• Religious worker
• Juvenile who requires the protection of a juvenile court because you have been abused, abandoned, or neglected by a parent
• International broadcaster
• Retired employee of an eligible international organisation such as NATO or are an eligible family member of such an employee.
• Were born in the United States to a foreign diplomatic officer who was stationed in the US when you were born
• Were stationed in the United States as a foreign diplomat or high-ranking official and could not return home.

If you have lived continuously in the US since before Jan. 1, 1972, you may also be eligible to apply for a Green Card.

General Green Card Application Process

The path you must follow to apply for a Green Card will vary depending on whether you are in or outside the United States. 

However, here is the general application process for most applicants:

• Someone must file an immigrant petition for you (often referred to as sponsoring or petitioning for you)
• After the United States Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) approves the immigrant petition and a visa becomes available in your category, you file either a Green Card application with USCIS or a visa application with the US Department of State
• You attend a biometrics appointment to supply fingerprints, photos and a signature
• You are summoned for an interview
• You receive a decision on your application.

The 8-Step Naturalisation Process

Now you’ve got a Green Card and lawful permanent resident status, what next? US citizenship, perhaps? 

If you’re starting to think that way, you’re not alone. Each year, over 750,000 Green Card holders with permanent residence apply for US naturalisation-based citizenship.

There is a defined process in place to determine if you are eligible for citizenship. 

1. Determine if you’re eligible to become a US citizen

You are eligible for US citizenship if you:

• Have had a Green Card for at least five years, or at least three years if you’re filing as the spouse of a US citizen
• Are of good moral character
• Have never deserted from the US Armed Forces
• Have never been exempt or discharged from the US Armed Forces for being an alien
• Are willing to perform military or civilian service
• Pledge support to the US Constitution
• Are prepared to take an oath of allegiance to the United States.

2. Fill in naturalisation application form N-400

If you are eligible, then you’ll need to fill in application form N-400. 

You can access this form online. 

All citizenship applications must include the following supporting documents:

• Photocopy of both sides of your Green Card
• A check or money order for the application fee and the biometric services fee (credit card payments are allowed, too)
• If you live outside the US, two identical colour photographs, with your name and Alien Registration Number (A-Number) written lightly in pencil on the back of each photo.

It costs US$760 to file your application by paper or US$710 to file online. 

3. Submit your completed N-400 and pay the fees

The USCIS will send you a receipt notice, and you can follow the progress of your citizenship application online. 

4. Attend a biometrics appointment, if required

Soon after, the USCIS will send an appointment notice that includes the biometrics appointment date, time and location.

5. Interview with USCIS

Next, the USCIS will set up an interview with you to complete the naturalisation process. Remember to bring the appointment notice with you.

6. Receive notification of a decision from the USCIS

After this, you’ll need to wait for the outcome. You’ll receive one of the following notifications about your application.

• Granted, if you have proved that you’re eligible for naturalisation

• Continued, if you’re required to supply additional proof, fail to provide the USCIS with the correct documents or fail the English and/or civics test the first time

• Denied, if your application demonstrates that you’re not eligible for naturalisation.

7. Take the Oath of Allegiance to the United States

You may be able to take part in a naturalisation ceremony on the same day as your interview.

You become a US citizen when you take the Oath of Allegiance at a naturalisation ceremony. At this event, you must return your Green Card.

8. Fulfill Citizenship Responsibilities

• Supporting and defending the Constitution
• Staying abreast of the issues affecting your community
• Taking part in the democratic process
• Respecting and obeying federal, state, and local laws
• Respecting the rights, beliefs, and opinions of others
• Contributing to your local community
• Paying income and other taxes honestly and promptly to federal, state, and local authorities
• Serving on a jury when called upon
• Defending the country if the need should arise.

Pros of a US Green Card

Starting with the pros, our breakdown of the pros and cons of holding a US Green Card will help you make an informed decision about pursuing permanent residence.

Right to Live and Work in the US: The top benefit of a Green Card is that it grants you the legal right to live anywhere in the United States.

Pathway to Citizenship: After a certain period (typically five years or three years if married to a US citizen), Green Card holders can apply for US citizenship, gaining the right to vote and access federal benefits.

Reunification Opportunities: Green Card holders can sponsor close family members (spouses and unmarried children) for their own Green Cards.

Dual Citizenship: Dual citizenship (or dual nationality) allows a person to simultaneously be a citizen of the United States and another country. US law does not require you to select one citizenship over another.

Cons of Holding a US Green Card

In terms of the cons, this is what you need to keep in mind:

Tax Obligations: As we frequently discuss at Nomad Capitalist, Green Card holders and US citizens are subject to US taxation on their worldwide income, which can significantly complicate financial planning and tax filing.

Residence Requirements: To maintain a Green Card, you must reside in the US for the majority of the year. Extended absences can jeopardise your permanent resident status.

Complexity and Expense: Obtaining a Green Card can be a lengthy and costly process, involving extensive paperwork, legal fees and possible waiting periods.

Alternatives to US Citizenship

The EU offers numerous residence and citizenship programs. Some are better suited to particular groups of people, while the benefits and features of another program might better suit others.

Some alternatives worth considering:

Portugal: This golden visa option has been massively popular, particularly with Americans. It offers a high quality of living and the ability to apply for citizenship in just five years. Learn more about Portugal’s Golden Visa program. where you’re treated best.

Greece: An individual can obtain residence in Greece by investing €250,000 directly into real estate. Learn more about Greece’s Golden Visa program.

US Green Card and Citizenship: FAQs

Is US Residence and Citizenship Worth Your While?

As you can see, becoming a US citizen requires perseverance, but there are certainly some benefits.

However, if the USCIS closes the door on your application, this could be followed by other countries’ immigration departments slamming the door in your face too.

With ever-increasing regulation and taxes, the US is a shadow of its former glory. The more successful you become, the more money you’ll lose in US taxes.

In fact, many are renouncing their US citizenship. They are fed up with paying high taxes and not being able to escape the long arm of the IRS, wherever they live in the world.

It’s up to you to decide if getting a Green Card and, eventually, US citizenship suits your needs.

We believe there are better options available. 

Are you looking for a new home with new freedoms and the chance of a new life? 

At Nomad Capitalist, we help entrepreneurs and investors move offshore, legally reduce their taxes and access a world of new opportunities overseas.

Talk to us today to learn more and we’ll help you go where you’re treated best.