· Green Card · 3 min read
The Fastest Ways to Get a Green Card in the U.S.
There are several ways to obtain a Green Card in the US, but not all options are equally fast or applicable to everyone. We are reviewing the methods with you for a fast and effective process. It is very important to consult an immigration lawyer to determine the most suitable strategy.
The Fastest Ways to Get a Green Card in the U.S.
For those who are undocumented in the U.S. and want to obtain a Green Card quickly, there are several possible options. However, not everyone qualifies for every method. That’s why, at the end of this article, we also include a “bonus option” that, although slower, may apply to a wider group of people.
Not all application routes are processed at the same speed; while some methods may lead to a Green Card within 1–2 years, others can take more than 10 years. In this guide, we break down the fastest ways to get a Green Card in the U.S. step by step and explain in detail who can benefit from which option.
How to Get a Green Card — and How to Do It Fast?
Let’s find out.
1. Green Card Through Marriage
-The fastest way is marrying a U.S. citizen.
-Although USCIS backlogs and requests for additional evidence can extend the timeline, on average a Green Card can be obtained within 10–24 months.
-The marriage must be with a U.S. citizen, not a Green Card holder.
-You must be physically present in the U.S. and have entered legally.
-If you apply from outside the U.S., the process can take much longer.
2. Being an Immediate Relative of a U.S. Citizen
-If you are the parent of a U.S. citizen or an unmarried child under 21, you are considered an “immediate relative.”
-In this case, you can usually receive a Green Card within 1–2 years without waiting for the visa bulletin.
-For other relatives (siblings, adult children), the process is much longer and usually requires consular processing outside the U.S.
3. EB-1A Extraordinary Ability Visa
-Available for individuals with extraordinary ability in arts, science, business, or sports.
-Once approved, a Green Card may be obtained within 1–2 years.
-No employer sponsorship is required, but you must meet at least 3 of the 10 criteria that prove “extraordinary ability.”
4. EB-2 National Interest Waiver (NIW)
-For individuals working on projects that are important and beneficial to the U.S. (e.g., developing new medical treatments, AI software).
-The process can take 1–2 years.
-Legal entry and valid immigration status are required.
For more details on EB-2, check out our other article.
5. Asylum
-Intended for individuals who fear returning to their home country.
-The application must be filed within 1 year of entering the U.S.
-The process can take many years, sometimes even over a decade.
Note: It used to be a relatively fast option, but now there may be over 1 million pending applications — and the backlog continues to grow.
6. Parole in Place for Military Families
-Applies to spouses, parents, or unmarried children of current or former U.S. military members.
-After approval, a Green Card can be obtained in about 16–18 months.
7. VAWA (Violence Against Women Act)
-Applicable not only to women, but also to men, children, and parents.
-Those who have suffered abuse (physical or emotional) from a U.S. citizen spouse, parent, or child may apply.
-On average, the process takes about 3.5 years.
-No legal entry or immigration status is required — applications can be filed from within the U.S.
It’s crucial to consult with an immigration attorney to determine which path is most suitable for you.
For more information about Green Cards, check out our other blog posts.
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