The Green Card, or Permanent Resident Card, is the most sought-after document by immigrants who want to live in the United States. Having it allows, after some time, to apply for U.S. citizenship. To achieve this, it is necessary to demonstrate between one and five years of residence and be a person of “good moral character”.
The process to obtain it is carried out through the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Below, we share the most important details about this process in 2025.
New Rules for 2025
From December 2, 2024, USCIS requires Green Card applicants to submit the medical exam along with the Form I-485. If they do not, the application will be automatically rejected. This means that it is now mandatory to include Form I-693, which certifies the medical exam and vaccination history.
The exam is conducted by authorized doctors and reviews:
✔️ Applicant’s medical history
✔️ Required vaccines
✔️ Presence of contagious diseases such as tuberculosis, syphilis, and gonorrhea
For the exam, applicants must bring an official ID, Form I-693, and their vaccination record. The cost varies depending on the doctor, and many insurance plans do not cover all expenses.
Additionally, starting January 22, 2025, it will no longer be necessary to present proof of COVID-19 vaccination in Form I-693.
Another important update is that from February 10, 2025, only the latest version of Form I-485 (edition of October 24, 2024) will be accepted. It will also be mandatory to submit Form I-693 or at least the vaccination section along with the application.
Will There Be Changes with Trump’s Presidency?
The return of Donald Trump has created uncertainty among immigrants, as in the past, he has signed executive orders limiting immigration benefits. One example was the elimination of humanitarian parole for Venezuelans, Cubans, Nicaraguans, and Haitians.
However, no changes have been announced so far that directly affect the Green Card process. Still, many immigrants fear that new measures could restrict access to permanent residency.
How to Apply for a Green Card?
The process for applying for a Green Card varies by case, but generally, these are the most common steps:
1️⃣ Someone must file an immigrant petition on behalf of the applicant (in some cases, the applicant can do it themselves).
2️⃣ USCIS approves the petition and the applicant submits the Green Card application or a visa application.
3️⃣ Biometric appointment to record fingerprints, photos, and signature.
4️⃣ Interview with USCIS.
5️⃣ Final decision on the application.
Who Can Apply for a Green Card?
USCIS defines different eligibility categories for the Green Card. These are the most common:
✔️ Through family (sponsored by a citizen or resident relative)
✔️ Through employment (sponsored by a company)
✔️ Special immigrant
✔️ Refugees or asylees
✔️ Victims of human trafficking and other crimes
✔️ Victims of abuse
✔️ Other categories
Each category has specific requirements, which can be consulted on the USCIS website.
Essential Forms for the Green Card
To apply for a Green Card, at least two forms are generally required:
📌 Immigrant petition (usually filed by a sponsor).
📌 Green Card Application (Form I-485).
Depending on the immigration category, other additional forms may be required. These are the most common:
- Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative
- Form I-140, Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker
- Form I-730, Refugee/Asylee Relative Petition
- Form I-589, Application for Asylum and Withholding of Removal
- Form I-360, Petition for Amerasian, Widow(er), or Special Immigrant
- Form I-526, Immigrant Petition by Standalone Investor
- Form I-918, Petition for U Nonimmigrant Status
- Form I-929, Petition for Qualifying Family Member of a U-1 Nonimmigrant
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