The US attracts people from all over the world. Someone comes in search of a better life, someone goes after the American dream, someone is seriously determined to conquer this country with their talent and mysterious Russian soul. Such a journey requires careful preparation, literally every step needs to be thought out, because emigration, especially in the United States, is a serious matter. It's no joke, more than 500 thousand people come to this country every year.
Instructions
Step 1
You can become a US citizen only by obtaining a residence permit, or Green Card. A residence permit, in turn, can be temporary or permanent.
Step 2
Citizens who have come to the country on a work or family visa or who have won the Green Card lottery can obtain the right to reside in the United States.
Step 3
A work visa is issued for a period of 3 years and can be extended without the right to leave the country for up to 6 years. This type of visa can be obtained by highly qualified specialists who fall under the quotas established by the US Congress. Family members of specialists have the right to live in the country, but without the right to work.
To obtain a visa of this type, you must have an invitation to work from an American company. After 3 years, it can be extended, and during this time you can get a "Green Card".
Step 4
Another way to get a permanent residence permit is the Green Card Lottery. About 50,000 visas of this type are awarded every year. However, winning the lottery does not guarantee an immigrant visa. It is necessary to pass an interview at the US consulate, which requires a thorough knowledge of the language and history of the country. Those who pass the interview and receive the Green Card get the opportunity to work and study in the United States on an equal basis with the indigenous people of the country.
Step 5
A family visa is issued to those who come to the United States for the purpose of marriage. Applicants must prove their intention to reside in the country permanently with the Naturalization and Immigration Service. Such a visa is issued for 2 years, and during this entire time, the government controls how well the marriage is, up to home visits, viewing family photos, talking with relatives, etc.
Step 6
Refugee status is another way to obtain a residence permit legally. To do this, you need to prove that persecution for good reasons really does take place. The interview is very tough, this must be taken into account.
Step 7
Investors in the US economy receive special attention. A contribution to the country's economy in the amount of 500 thousand dollars gives the right to obtain a residence permit, and then citizenship. However, even in this case, not everything is so simple. You must provide a declaration of income for the last 3 years. The country's authorities want to be sure that all invested funds are received legally.
Step 8
Remember that you can become a US citizen only after living and working in this country for at least 5 years. This period is reduced to 3 years for those who are married to a US citizen. You need to be able to read, write, speak English, know the history of the country and the modern state structure.
