How to Apply for a Green Card as a Nigerian Citizen in the United States

April 10, 2024 Amaka Chimezie

Applying for a Green Card (Permanent Resident Card) as a Nigerian citizen in the United States involves several steps, which can vary depending on your specific situation and eligibility category. Below is a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the application process.

1. Determine Your Eligibility Category

Before starting your application, identify which category you qualify under. Common categories include:

Family-Based Green Cards: If you have a close family member who is a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.
Employment-Based Green Cards: If you have a job offer from a U.S. employer or possess extraordinary abilities in your field.
Special Immigrant Status: For certain groups such as religious workers or juvenile immigrants.
Refugee or Asylee Status: If you were granted asylum or refugee status in the U.S.

2. File an Immigrant Petition

Most applicants will need someone to file an immigrant petition on their behalf:

Family-Based: A relative must file Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative).
Employment-Based: An employer must file Form I-140 (Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker).

In some cases, individuals may be eligible to self-petition (e.g., individuals with extraordinary abilities).

3. Wait for Petition Approval

Once the petition is filed, it must be approved by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This process can take several months.

4. Check Visa Availability

After approval of your petition, check if there is an available visa in your category through the Visa Bulletin published by the Department of State.

5. Apply for Adjustment of Status or Consular Processing

Depending on whether you are currently in the U.S. or outside:

If You Are Inside the U.S.:
- File Form I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status) with USCIS.
- Attend a biometrics appointment where you’ll provide fingerprints and photographs.
- Prepare for an interview with USCIS.
If You Are Outside the U.S.:
- Go through consular processing by submitting Form DS-260 (Immigrant Visa Application) at the U.S. consulate in Nigeria after receiving instructions from the National Visa Center (NVC).
- Schedule and attend a medical examination with an approved physician.
- Prepare documents required for your visa interview.

6. Attend Your Interview

Whether applying through adjustment of status or consular processing, you will need to attend an interview where a USCIS officer or consular officer will assess your application.

7. Receive Your Decision

After your interview, you will receive notification regarding your application status:

If approved, you will receive your Green Card if adjusting status within the U.S., or an immigrant visa if applying from abroad.

8. Pay Required Fees

Be prepared to pay various fees throughout this process, including filing fees for petitions and applications, medical examination costs, and any legal fees if applicable.

9. Maintain Your Permanent Residency Status

Once granted a Green Card, ensure that you comply with all residency requirements to maintain your status and consider applying for citizenship after meeting eligibility criteria (typically after five years).

By following these steps carefully and ensuring that all documentation is complete and accurate, Nigerian citizens can successfully apply for a Green Card while residing in the United States.