Immigrant Visas Overview > Permanent Residence "Green Cards"

As opposed to non-immigrant visas that are temporary and expire after a defined time period, a Green Card (really they are blue and pink) confers on its holder the right to live and work in the United States on a permanent basis. There are three basic avenues to obtain a Green Card.

• Through employment with a firm doing business in the US
• Close family ties to a US citizen or permanent resident
• Being selected in the Diversity Lottery system

The process to obtain a Green Card can be time consuming and complex. 

For more specific information please click the appropriate link:

• Employment-based
• Family-based
• Diversity Lottery