How to obtain a green card and what visas are required for foreigners in the USA?

Immigration to America

America is one of the leading countries in the world in terms of the number of immigrants. According to reports from the international migration portal, by 2019, there were about 50.7 million foreigners in the United States, which accounts for 15.4% of the total population of the country. This figure continues to rise over time: in 2018, it was 44.8 million, as reported by the Pew Research Center.

Main immigrant countries

The main source of immigration to America is Mexico. In 2018, Mexicans made up about 11.2 million of all immigrants, which is equivalent to 25% of the total number of migrants. In second and third place on this list are China and India, each accounting for 6% of the total number of immigrants. Other countries with significant numbers of migrants include the Philippines with 4% and El Salvador with 3%.

Ethnic composition

When it comes to the racial composition, there are currently more immigrants from Asia living in the U.S. than from Latin America. Projections indicate that by 2055, Asian immigrants will become the largest group among foreigners on American soil.

Popular states among immigrants

Most migrants (45%) prefer to live in just three states:

• California (24% of all immigrants)
• Texas (11%)
• Florida (10%)

Among the cities most attractive to immigrants, New York stands out, followed by Los Angeles and Miami.

Visa regime for entry into the USA

As for the visa regime, citizens of certain countries have the option of entering the USA without a visa. However, for citizens of Russia, Ukraine, Belarus, and Kazakhstan, this program does not apply, and they need to apply for a visa for their trip.

Types of visas for entry

To enter the United States, a visa is required, which can be either an immigrant or a non-immigrant visa. Non-immigrant visas are intended for temporary stays and are divided into various categories depending on the purpose of the visit. The most common types of visas are as follows:

• Visa for business and tourist visits (B1/B2)
• Student visas (F, M)
• Visas for work (H, L, O, P, Q, R)
• Visas for exchange program participants (J)
• Transit visas and crew member visas (C1/D)
• Visa for journalists and media workers (I)
• Visas for domestic workers (B1, A3, G5)

Documents for obtaining a visa

A complete list of visa types can be found on the official website of the U.S. Department of State. For each visa category, a specific set of documents must be prepared; however, in most cases, it will be necessary to confirm the purpose of the trip, as well as provide evidence of ties to the home country and a history of previous trips, such as old passports, income documents, and property ownership. Additional requirements depend on the basis on which the visa application is submitted.

Obtaining a student visa

To obtain a student visa, it is necessary to have an accredited Form I-20, which is issued by the educational institution, as well as a document confirming the payment of the relevant fee. Additionally, a copy of the employer's visa must be provided, and if the employee is a U.S. citizen, their passport and employment contract for the duration of the trip must be submitted.

A complete list of document requirements for various types of visas can be found on the official website of the American Embassy in Russia. If you have questions about real estate, immigration, or investments, you can subscribe to a specialized channel on Telegram.

Steps to obtain a non-immigrant visa

Obtaining a non-immigrant visa involves a series of mandatory steps:

• Payment of the consular fee;
• Filling out online forms (DS-160 form);
• Appointment for an interview at the US consulate or embassy.

It is recommended to bring a printed invitation to the interview, confirmation of the submission of the DS-160 form, photographs sized 5 × 5 cm (it is important to consider all photo requirements), a valid foreign passport, as well as all previously issued passports to the meeting with the consul. In case your application is successfully processed, your passport with the visa will be sent to the address provided when scheduling the interview.

Immigration visa and green card

An immigration visa is an opportunity to obtain a green card, which allows foreigners to become permanent residents of the United States. The green card is the only document that grants the right to legally reside in the U.S. for an extended period.

This document will grant foreigners almost the same rights as American citizens, with the exception of the ability to participate in elections. There are several main ways to apply for a green card. The most common options include:

• Preparation of a standard set of documents justifying your request;
• Participating in a lottery is a matter of luck.

Immigration through family ties

Immigration through family connections includes immediate family relationships, such as spouses, parents, and unmarried children (under 21 years old) of U.S. citizens. Additionally, this category also includes other family relationships, such as:

• Brothers and sisters, citizens;
• Spouses and minor children of permanent residents.

The main step in the process of obtaining a family immigration visa is submitting the I-130 petition, where it is necessary to confirm the existence of family relationships. It is also important to pay attention to the information about the required documents for the interview, which is available on the website of the U.S. Embassy in Russia.

Professional and investment visas

Professional and investment visas can be divided into several subcategories, each with its own characteristics. Let's take a look at the most well-known ones:

• The application process for such visas requires applicants to demonstrate their professional qualifications.
• Confirmation of intentions to invest in the U.S. economy is required.

Visas of this type often impose stricter requirements on potential immigrants, as the process of obtaining them can be quite complex and multi-step. It is important to remember that different visa categories have their own unique conditions and requirements; therefore, it would be wise to thoroughly research them before starting the application process.

Types of visas to the USA

There are many categories of visas, among which EB-1, EB-5, and E-2 stand out, each designed for specific groups of individuals, such as outstanding professionals, investors, and entrepreneurs. Let's take a closer look at each of these visas.

EB-1 visa

The EB-1 visa is designed for individuals with extraordinary abilities in their field. This can include talented scientists, qualified educators, or executives working in large international corporations. There are strict requirements for employers in this visa category, including the necessity of having stable business connections in the U.S., such as branches or subsidiaries. Companies must have been actively operating in the U.S. for at least one year.

• The candidate must have at least one year of work experience in a foreign company that is part of a parent or subsidiary structure.
• An immigrant must hold a managerial position in the USA.
• The EB-1 visa can be obtained by changing your current visa status in the U.S. or by applying at the consulate in your home country.
• The employer is required to submit an I-140 petition to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services along with a letter confirming employment.

EB-5 visa

Now let's turn our attention to the EB-5 visa, which is designed for foreign investors. This category of visas provides the opportunity to invest in both new and existing business projects in the U.S., including investments in regional centers. To obtain an EB-5 visa, it is necessary to create at least ten jobs for qualified workers.

• If the project is located in areas with high unemployment or in rural areas, the minimum investment amount is900 thousand US dollars.
• For other businesses, this threshold starts at1.8 million dollars.
• In the event of a successful business completion, the invested funds can be returned throughfive to seven years.
• The investor takes on the risks associated with running a business.
• Visa applicants must not have any criminal offenses, and their financial sources must be legal.

Annually allocated10 thousand visasAs part of the EB-5 program, including family members of investors. Those interested in this visa should carefully review the list of required documents for interviews on the official website of the U.S. embassy.

E-2 visa

The E-2 visa is designed for the long-term stay of foreign investors and entrepreneurs who do not plan to spend their entire lives in the United States but wish to conduct business in the country. The main requirement for obtaining this visa is the intention to return to one's home country after completing their business activities.

• The amount of investment required to obtain an E-2 visa is not fixed.
• Based on the practical experience of lawyers, the minimum amount often amounts to around100 thousand dollars.
• This visa is perfect for those who intend to start a new venture or expand an existing business in the USA.

Conclusion

Each of the listed types of visas has its specific conditions and requirements, and the choice of the appropriate option should be made considering the individual circumstances and goals of the applicant.

Investment and visa opportunities

Investment funds should be directed towards companies that demonstrate stability and high efficiency. The visa renewal process should occur every two years and can continue throughout the duration of the business operation. It is important to understand that obtaining a green card based on this visa is not possible, regardless of how long the investor has been in the U.S. However, if the company shows positive results, this can serve as a basis for transitioning to the EB-5 immigration visa. It should also be noted that the E-2 visa is not available to Russian citizens, which is a significant limitation.

Ways to immigrate to the USA

There are many ways to immigrate to the United States. For example:

• The E-2 temporary visa, designed for investors and entrepreneurs, allows for residency approval in just 4 months, provided that investments start from100,000 US dollars.
• The EB-1 visa, designed for highly skilled professionals, entrepreneurs, and managers, offers the opportunity to obtain a green card for8 monthswith minimal investments starting from5,000 dollars.
• The long-term O-1 visa for individuals with extraordinary talents is considered for about3 months, also with minimal investments starting from5,000 dollars.

Immigration programs

The EB-5 immigration program offers a pathway to obtaining permanent residency through investments, with a processing time that takes31 monthsThe minimum investment amount in this case is900,000 US dollarsThe EB-2 visa is available for qualified specialists, allowing them to obtain permanent residency.one monthand requires minimal investments starting from5,000 dollars.

Additional visas and lotteries

It is also worth mentioning the L-1 visa, intended for entrepreneurs and highly skilled workers; it can be obtained for2 monthswith a similar starting capital. In addition, citizens have the opportunity to participate in the annual international green card lottery, which takes place at no cost.

• During this lottery, selections are made randomly.50,000 participantsfor obtaining permanent resident status.

Requirements for participating in the lottery

To participate in the lottery, you must meet two main requirements:

• To be a citizen of one of the countries allowed to participate (usually countries with low levels of immigration to the US), while citizens of Brazil, Canada, Colombia, Mexico, and several other countries cannot test their chances.
• To have a high school diploma or two years of verified work experience in a highly qualified specialty in the lastfive years.

There are no other restrictions, such as age or professional requirements, and there is no need to know English.

The process of obtaining a green card

However, winning the lottery does not guarantee obtaining a green card. Winners must:

• To go through an interview at the US consulate.
• Provide documents confirming their health status (not being carriers of serious infectious and mental illnesses).
• Provide evidence of no criminal record.

It is important to remember that the only official resource for checking lottery results is the website of the U.S. Department of State. You can also check the status of your applications on this site (notification of winnings is not sent). It is also recommended to review the list of documents that will need to be provided at the interview on the website of the U.S. Embassy in Russia.

Visa for a fiancée or fiancé

The fiancé(e) visa (K-1) is usually considered a non-immigrant visa, but it is also significant in this context as it is intended for obtaining permanent resident status in the future. To successfully navigate this process, it is essential to follow the prescribed requirements and established rules.

The process of immigration through marriage in the USA

The immigration process to the United States based on marital relationships includes several clearly defined stages, the last of which is obtaining the status of a legal permanent resident. Over time, this status allows for the application for U.S. citizenship.

It is important to emphasize that individuals who enter into a sham marriage are at high risk of deportation, and the consequences of such fraud can include a prison sentence of up to five years anda fine of up to 250 thousand dollarsYou can find detailed information about marriage-related visas in the official sources prepared by the U.S. government.

It is also important to note that up-to-date information about the required documents for the interview is available in a special section on the website of the U.S. Embassy in Russia.

Return to permanent resident status

As for returning to permanent resident status (SB-1 visa), this visa is available to those who were permanent residents of the United States but, for various reasons, were unable to enter the country for more than one year (or two years if they have a re-entry permit).

The applicant is required to provide evidence that at the time of departure, he held the status of a permanent resident and intended to return, but was unable to do so due to circumstances beyond his control. The process of restoring the green card involves two interviews at the consulate:

• If the documents provided are satisfactory to the consul during the first interview, the applicant is allowed to proceed to the second immigration interview.

The process of applying for an immigration visa

To apply for an immigration visa, the interested party must have a sponsor, who can be either a close relative (a citizen or permanent resident of the USA) or a potential employer in the United States.

The sponsor initiates the process by submitting a petition toU.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)The application forms are available on the official website of this service, for example, these could be forms for petitions for relatives of foreign citizens or requests for work permits.

After the petition is reviewed and approved, the applicant's documents are forwarded toNational Visa Center (NVC)for further processing. Registration of lottery participants ends at the Consular Center located in the state of Kentucky.

In the case of a positive decision, the foreign citizen receives an invitation to participate in the final interview at the embassy.

Visa benefits when purchasing real estate

When it comes to the visa benefits associated with purchasing real estate, it is important to note that the mere act of acquiring property in the U.S. does not automatically grant rights or privileges for obtaining a tourist or immigration visa.

Nevertheless, such investments can play a positive role in the process of obtaining a business visa, as they highlight a serious interest in the economy and business climate of the United States.

These steps and financial investments can significantly increase the chances of successfully obtaining a visa, but they are not presented as a guaranteed outcome. Emigration through marriage or other means requires careful preparation and a deep understanding of all related nuances.

EB-5 investment visa

Obtaining an EB-5 visa for investments requires significant financial contributions, with a minimum amount of900 thousand dollarsAdditionally, it is necessary to create at leastten workstationsThis is usually achieved through the development of a successful business. An example of such a business could be commercial real estate, such as a hotel, where at least ten people are employed.

Real estate in the USA

The American real estate market offers a variety of attractive listings. For example, a house with a total area is for sale in Miami.460 square metersfor3,218,446 eurosThis spacious property features six bedrooms and six bathrooms and is managed by the well-known company Square Estates LLC.

You can also find a great option in this city —apartments with an area of 185 square metersat the price2,712,690 euroswhere three bedrooms and two bathrooms are located.

Assistance with purchasing real estate

If you are interested in purchasing real estate in sunny Miami, I would be happy to assist you with this task. I am ready to answer all your questions regarding these properties or the overall market conditions. My experience covers both new and secondary apartments, so you can count on professionalism in every interaction.

Other real estate options

• Townhouse in Miami: with an area of 400 square meters, is for sale for2,988,557 eurosincludes five bedrooms and four bathrooms.
• Apartments with an area of 120 square metersThe cost is643,229 eurosIt includes three bedrooms and two bathrooms.
• Apartment in Miami: 220 square meters for1,646,005 eurosIt includes four bedrooms and three bathrooms.
• An apartment measuring 115 square meters: offered for528,745 eurosIt has three bedrooms and two bathrooms.

Final words

I am Dmitry Baranov, your reliable real estate agent, always available by phone.+1.305.302.9776My work encompasses both new and secondary properties, allowing me to offer a variety of services for my clients' comfort. I strive to make the buying process as simple and beneficial for you as possible.

Real estate in sunny Miami

Real estate in Miami, where the sunny warmth and cozy beaches are, presents a magnificent opportunity for those considering the purchase of residential or commercial properties. Our selection includes various options, including townhouses, luxury villas, and office spaces for businesses.

Townhouse

For example, take a look at the townhouse with an area of 210 square meters, which has 4 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms. Its price is 700,000 euros. If you have any questions about this property or want to discuss current market trends, please don't hesitate to contact me.

Villa

In addition to the townhouse, our catalog features a magnificent villa with an area of 260 square meters, offering 5 cozy bedrooms and 4 modern bathrooms. The price of this property is 1,466,692 euros. If you are interested in this offer or need in-depth market analysis in Miami, I would be happy to answer your questions and assist you in the process of purchasing or investing in residential and commercial properties.

Penthouse

We also have a penthouse of the same size, 260 square meters, offering 5 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms. Its price is 1,931,068 euros.

Real estate in Miami

Real estate in Miami offers a variety of options for both new and secondary properties. For those interested, there is an online viewing feature available, as well as the possibility of completing transactions remotely. My name is Dmitry Baranov, and I am your real estate broker at Square Estates LLC. If you are interested in the following offers, I would be happy to assist you:

Apartment in Miami

Let's consider an apartment in Miami, which costs2,436,824 €and the total area —120 square metersThis property has three bedrooms and two bathrooms, and it also offers the option for online viewings and the possibility of remote transactions. If you have any questions about the apartment or the real estate market in general, feel free to reach out! I would be happy to assist you in the process of purchasing residential or commercial property in South Florida.

Gorgeous villa

There is also a luxurious villa, the cost of which5,977,114 €The area of this object is400 square metersIt includes seven bedrooms and six bathrooms, as well as additional amenities such as a private pool and a well-maintained garden. You can view it online and make a deal remotely. If you have any questions about this property or the real estate market in Miami, let me know! I am ready to provide the necessary support in choosing and purchasing the perfect home.

Modern townhouse

Another modern townhouse in Miami is for sale for2,754,070 €His total area201.5 m²It includes four bedrooms and three bathrooms. There is also the possibility of a mortgage. If you are interested in learning more about this property or getting advice on the market, feel free to contact me! I would be happy to help you with any real estate questions.

Apartment with the option to pay in cryptocurrency

There is also an apartment for sale in Miami at the price of1,218,412 €, with an area of140 square metersThis property has four bedrooms and three bathrooms. Online showings and remote transaction processing are available, with the option to pay in cryptocurrency. If you are interested in this property or have questions about real estate in Miami, I would be happy to assist you in purchasing both residential and commercial properties.

A small apartment for families

And finally, I offer you a small apartment for541,619 €, with an area of80 square metersThis is perfect for small families. The property features two bedrooms and one bathroom, as well as access to online viewings. You will be able to complete the transaction remotely and discuss the possibility of payment in cryptocurrency. If you need to know anything about this apartment or the real estate market in Miami, feel free to message me!

Wide opportunities

We have a wide database of both new constructions and secondary market properties. We offer modern solutions for online viewings and the ability to close deals remotely. My name is Dmitry Baranov, and I am always ready to help you find the right residential or commercial property on the southern side of Florida. Don't miss the chance to become a property owner in this wonderful region!

Real estate in Miami from Square Estates LLC

The real estate offered in Miami by Square Estates LLC represents a unique investment opportunity. One example is an apartment with an area of 45 m², priced at €504,836. This property is located in a residential complex called "Diesel."

It is important to note that potential buyers can arrange an online viewing of the apartment and complete the transaction remotely using cryptocurrency, which significantly simplifies the purchasing process. If you have any questions regarding this offer or the general state of the real estate market in Miami, please feel free to reach out for assistance.

I would be happy to assist you in finding both residential and commercial real estate in South Florida, where there are many new projects and properties available on the secondary market. Our platform offers numerous opportunities for online showings and remote transaction processing.

Immigration questions

Regarding the issue of immigration, the extension of permanent resident status in the USA involves several key steps. At the initial stage, the applicant is issued a conditional green card, valid for two years. Three months before the expiration of this card, an application must be submitted to remove the conditions.

If the green card was granted based on family circumstances, it will be necessary to fill out Form I-751. For investors and entrepreneurs who received a conditional card, the procedure requires submitting Form I-829. If the application for status extension is approved, the applicant receives a new green card that will be valid for the next decade.

Replacement of green card

After this ten-year period, the card will be replaced in case of expiration, loss, theft, or damage. Additional information about other reasons for which a green card replacement may be required can be found on the website of the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services.

Rules of residence

It is also important to remember the rules regarding residency with this card. Green card holders are prohibited from being outside the United States for more than six months within a year. If the absence exceeds this limit, the immigration service will require explanations for the extended stay outside the country.

A resident who has been outside the U.S. for more than a year loses their right to a green card, which can complicate the process of obtaining citizenship in the future.

Obtaining U.S. citizenship

As for obtaining American citizenship, to start the application process, one must be a permanent resident for at least five years and meet the requirements for mandatory residency in the country. It is also important for the applicant to have been in the state where they plan to apply for at least three months.

Conditions for obtaining citizenship

There are also other conditions that must be met for successful acquisition of U.S. citizenship. All these points emphasize the importance of a serious approach to the process of obtaining permanent resident status and citizenship.

Keep in mind that thorough preparation and adherence to all requirements significantly increase the likelihood of success in your immigration journey.

Introduction to the Naturalization Process

At the stage of submitting the N-400 application for naturalization, there are several critically important conditions to consider. First and foremost, it is essential that the applicant is over eighteen years old. It is also necessary to confirm that you have been a permanent resident in the United States for at least five years before submitting the form.

Another important requirement is physical presence in the country, which must be at least thirty months within the specified five years before submitting the N-400.

Moral qualities and language skills

It is also important to demonstrate good moral character and commitment to the core principles of the U.S. Constitution. The candidate must pass a test proving their ability to read, speak, and write in English. A basic knowledge of U.S. history and government is also an important aspect of the test that you will need to take.

The final step of the process will be taking an oath of allegiance to the United States.

Recommendations for naturalization

On the website of the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, you can find an informative brochure that outlines ten steps to naturalization, detailing the main stages and tips for this process.

Benefits for spouses of U.S. citizens

The laws provide for certain relaxations, for example,spouses of U.S. citizensThey can apply for citizenship just three years after obtaining permanent resident status. In some cases, when the spouses of citizens are abroad, they may be exempt from certain requirements regarding residency or physical presence in the U.S.

Rights and responsibilities of green card holders

Now it's time to discuss the rights and responsibilities of green card holders. Among the main rights are:

• the opportunity to live in the country, provided that immigration laws are followed;
• the right to work in any field except for political activities, which is justified by security considerations.

Green card holders must comply with all applicable laws, both federal and local. In addition, they are required to file tax returns, reporting their income, including wages, dividends, and rental income. All of these amounts must be declared regardless of the country in which they were earned. Holding a green card provides certain protections under U.S. law; however, they are not allowed to vote in elections.

Visa-free entry and military registration

Green card holders have the right to enter countries without a visa, provided that the United States has signed relevant agreements with those countries. Additionally, young men aged eighteen to twenty-five are required to register for military service. Green card holders can obtain loans and mortgages on favorable terms, as well as have the opportunity to apply for grants and scholarships under educational programs.

Conditions for green card holders

It is important to be in the United States for at least half of the time specified on the green card. They can also run their own business and, after ten years of work experience, can expect to receive a pension and social benefits in case of loss of ability to work or income. Additionally, health insurance and educational services are available to foreigners with various immigration statuses, but for green card holders, these services may be more affordable.

Contact information for U.S. embassies and consulates in Russia

As for the Russian Federation, the addresses of the US embassies and consulates are as follows:

• Embassy:Moscow, Bolshoy Devyatinsky Lane, 8, phone: +7 (495) 728-5000.
• Consulate General:Vladivostok, Pushkinskaya Street, 32, phone: +7 (423) 230-5000.

Conclusion

In conclusion, I want to emphasize that immigration to the USA is a multi-step and quite complex process that requires careful planning and adherence to the law. The country, which brings together people from all corners of the world, remains attractive to millions of foreign citizens due to its high standards of living, diverse opportunities, and dynamic labor market.

Throughout our article, we have examined the key aspects concerning foreign nationals wishing to reside in the United States. We delved into issues related to visa regulations, types of visas, and the grounds for obtaining green cards, as well as the benefits and responsibilities that come with this status. Despite the differences in requirements and procedures, it is important to remember that each immigrant has their own unique story and purpose that drives them toward the dream of a new life in the U.S.

Key points of immigration to the USA

• Visa regime:Different types of visas for various purposes, including non-immigrant and immigrant visas.
• Green card:The main ways to obtain permanent resident status, including family ties and professional activities.
• Responsibilities:Compliance with laws and regulations, cultural respect, and participation in community life.

Whether it's the desire to start your own business, secure your family's future, or find new opportunities for learning and self-fulfillment, it's important to approach the visa or green card application process carefully. Be sure to follow all legal requirements, gather any missing documents, and seek advice from professionals to minimize the risk of denial.

It is important to remember that immigration involves not only rights but also responsibilities. Citizens who have obtained a green card are required to obey the laws of the country they reside in, contribute to the development of society, and respect the cultural traditions and values of America.

Each of us has the opportunity to become a part of this great country and contribute something new to its rich cultural heritage. I hope this article has helped you better understand the paths of immigration to the USA and inspired you to take further steps towards your dream of a new life.