Most Common Ways to Obtain a Green Card in the USA

A Green Card can be obtained in several different ways. Below, we discuss the most popular methods among the Polish community, considering realistic timelines and requirements in 2026.

1. Marriage to a U.S. Citizen

The fastest path — no visa limits. Requires Form I-130, marriage documents, proof of shared life (photos, bank accounts, residence, benefits). Time: 8–18 months.

2. Marriage to a Green Card Holder (LPR)

A slower path — the F2A category has limits. Current timelines in the Visa Bulletin show waiting times from a few months to 2–3 years.

3. Sponsorship by a Parent Who is a U.S. Citizen

For unmarried children under 21 — no limit (immediate relative). For older or married children — categories F1, F3, F4 with long waiting times (sometimes 10–20+ years).

4. Employment — EB-2 and EB-3

The most popular professional pathway. Requires:

• A job offer from a U.S. employer
• Labor certification (PERM Labor Certification) — Department of Labor
• Form I-140 — Petition for Alien Worker
• Then I-485 or consular processing

Time: 1–4 years for Poles (priority dates currently favorable, but this is subject to change).

5. EB-1 — Workers with Extraordinary Abilities

For individuals with documented achievements in science, arts, sports, or business. The fastest work path — no sponsor required (EB-1A self-petition). More difficult to document.

6. EB-2 NIW — National Interest Waiver

Self-petition in the EB-2 category without an employer sponsor. Must prove that the applicant's work is in the "national interest of the USA." Popular among scientists, doctors, entrepreneurs.

7. Political Asylum

For individuals fleeing persecution based on race, religion, nationality, political opinions, or membership in a particular social group. After one year of obtaining asylum, one can file I-485.

8. EB-5 — Investor Visa

Requires an investment of $800,000 (in targeted employment areas TEA) or $1,050,000 (elsewhere) creating a minimum of 10 jobs. Time: 2–5 years.

9. DV Lottery

Diversity Visa Lottery. Poland is EXCLUDED from the lottery in most years due to high levels of historical immigration. Always check the list of eligible countries for the given year at dvprogram.state.gov.

10. Special Categories

• VAWA — victims of domestic violence by a U.S. citizen / LPR
• U-visa — victims of certain crimes cooperating with law enforcement
• T-visa — victims of human trafficking
• Special Immigrant Juvenile — for minors

Which Path to Choose?

The fastest: marriage to a U.S. citizen. The most accessible professionally: EB-3 (if you have vocational education or experience). The most scrutiny: EB-1A or EB-2 NIW (self-petition). It is advisable to consult with an immigration attorney before choosing a strategy.