Why is there a green card backlog?
There is a green card backlog because the number of green cards offered is not enough when you look at how many immigrants wish to obtain permanent residency. There are way too many immigrants, and not all of them have the chance to get a green card at that time, so they become stuck in the backlog.
What does it mean when Uscis approves your case?
For most people, this generally means that you entered the United States with valid documentation and made face to face contact with a U.S. immigration officer and that officer acknowledged your entry to the United States. If you entered with a valid visa, but that visa has since expired, you still had a lawful entry.
How long does it take to get the green card after the priority date becomes current?
HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO GET A GREEN CARD? After filing Form I-485, Application to Adjust Status, and related forms, your I-485 processing time can take anywhere from 8 to 14 months. The basis of your adjustment of status (e.g. family, employment, asylum, etc.) will be a significant factor. This is an approximation.
How many people are stuck in green card backlog?
It is the more than 1.2 million people waiting in line for employment-based green cards. Most individuals who are stuck in the work-based green card backlog are Indian nationals—the majority of whom work in the information technology sector—currently living and working in the United States.
What happens after Green Card is approved?
We issue a Permanent Resident Card (Green Card) to all permanent residents as proof that they are authorized to live and work in the United States. If you are a permanent resident age 18 or older, you are required to have a valid Green Card in your possession at all times.
What is next step after receiving Green Card?
Once you have received your immigrant visa, you must enter the United States within the visa validity period to obtain an alien registration receipt or “green” card (Form I-151 or I-551) that will allow you to live and work in the United States. You will receive your visa and a sealed packet from the courier service.
How many applications are pending for green card?
As Figure 1 shows, the petition pending backlog was 3.2 million in 2020, while there were 5.3 million with approved petitions who were wait‐listed due to insufficient cap space plus nearly half a million pending adjustment applications for applicants in the United States.