If you want to come into the United States, you usually need a visa for legal entry. You can renew a visa after being in the country for several years. However, if you want to stay in the United States of America permanently, you need a green card or permanent resident card.
Someone who entered the country on a visa can adjust their status to become a permanent resident. Following the law and complying with immigration rules can help someone obtain a green card. Do you have to already live in the United States if you want to become a permanent resident and get a green card?
Sometimes, family members can get green cards while living abroad
Different circumstances have different immigration laws that apply. Someone who enters the country as a student or worker with a visa can adjust their status and become a permanent resident while already in the country. Your rights depend on the preference level assigned to your employment visa.
Someone who wants to pursue family-based immigration could get a green card while living in another country. Spouses, parents and children of both permanent residents and citizens can potentially apply for a green card while still living in another country. They then enter the country without the uncertainty that comes with only having a visa. When they move to the United States, they will know that they can stay indefinitely.
Learning about how to adjust your status or qualify for a green card can help you and the people you love enter or stay in the United States.