Green Card – U.S. Cities Where Permanent Residency Is Processed Faster

If you’re planning to obtain a Green Card in the U.S., patience is key, as the process can take time. On average, the application process lasts around 18 months, so it’s important to understand the steps involved and the potential wait times before you begin. Let’s walk through what you can expect during your journey to U.S. permanent residency.

Steps to Getting

The process to obtain a Green Card is a multi-step procedure, overseen by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Here’s what you need to do:

1. Form I-485: The first formal step is completing and submitting Form I-485, also known as the Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status. This form tells the government you’re seeking a Green Card.
2. Submit Documentation: Along with the I-485 form, you’ll need to submit essential documents such as proof of eligibility, identity documents, and sometimes medical examination results.
3. Biometric Data: As part of the process, you’ll provide biometric data—this usually includes fingerprints, a photo, and your signature. USCIS uses this information for background checks.
4. Interview: Once your paperwork is processed, USCIS will schedule an interview at one of its offices. During the interview, an officer will review your application and ask questions to confirm your eligibility.

These steps are handled by USCIS, which operates 89 field offices across the country. While the process is standard, the time it takes for each office to handle applications can vary.

Average Processing

The average processing time for Green Card applications in the U.S. is about 18 months. This timeline has remained relatively stable in recent years. However, each case is unique, and some applications may move faster or slower, depending on various factors like the applicant’s location, the completeness of the application, and USCIS office backlogs.

Processing times can be affected by the complexity of the case, requests for additional evidence, or delays in scheduling biometric appointments and interviews.

Fastest Offices

USCIS has offices throughout the U.S., but not all of them operate at the same speed. Some field offices have quicker processing times, allowing applicants to receive their Green Cards more swiftly. According to recent data, the following offices have the fastest average processing times:

• Burlington: 10 months
• Norfolk: 10.5 months
• Providence: 11 months
• Omaha: 11.7 months

These times represent how long it took USCIS to process 80% of cases over the past six months, meaning there’s still a chance that some cases might take longer.

Understanding Processing

It’s important to note that the processing times provided by USCIS are general estimates. They represent the average time it took to process 80% of adjudicated cases over the past six months. Each case is unique, so your timeline may vary depending on factors such as the office handling your case, the specific type of Green Card you’re applying for, and whether USCIS requests additional documentation.

For those filing at a slower office, or if additional evidence is required, the process could take longer than the average.

Green Card Application

While the process is largely out of your control once it’s in motion, here are some tips to avoid delays:

1. Submit a Complete Application: Double-check that your application is complete, including all required forms, signatures, and supporting documents.
2. Prepare for Your Biometric Appointment: Attend your biometric appointment as soon as it’s scheduled to avoid unnecessary delays.
3. Respond to Requests for Evidence Promptly: If USCIS requests additional evidence, respond as quickly as possible to avoid pushing back your processing timeline.
4. Monitor Your Case: Keep track of your case status online through the USCIS case tracker. This allows you to stay informed about any changes or updates.

Applying for a Green Card in the United States is a process that requires time and patience. On average, it takes around 18 months, but you could potentially receive your permanent resident status faster if you file through one of the quicker USCIS offices. Make sure your application is complete, respond promptly to any requests, and attend all appointments on time to minimize delays. Although the wait may seem long, successfully obtaining a Green Card opens doors to a permanent life in the U.S.

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