A green card is your proof of legal permanent residency in the U.S. Green cards can be obtained in several different ways:
- Through sponsorship of a family member who is a U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident
- Through employment sponsorship
- By being a refugee or asylee
- The Diversity Immigrant Visa Program (known as the “green card lottery”)
- By meeting specific family situations
- By having preferred jobs and skills
- Coming from countries or areas designated for special attention