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Get started with a topic belowThe growing backlog of Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative) cases over the past decade has steadily increased. This backlog represents the number of family-based green card petitions waiting to be processed by USCIS. The increase reflects a combination of rising demand, processing delays, and annual visa limits — all of which can impact how long families wait to reunite.
Data is sourced from USCIS performance reports and updated as new information becomes available.
Ways to Get a Green Card
There are several ways to become a lawful permanent resident in the U.S., including family-based adjustment for those who overstayed visas.
Eligibility Categories
Green card eligibility includes immediate relatives of U.S. citizens, family-preference categories, and more.
Removing Conditions
Conditional green cards are valid for 2 years. Learn how to convert yours to a 10-year card.
Becoming a Citizen
Naturalization & learn what to expect, avoid delays, and get expert help every step of the way.
Green Card Wait Time Tracker
Estimated Wait Time:
Note: This is based on the latest Visa Bulletin. Send us a message for individual case information.
🚦 Why Is There a Green Card Backlog?
📊 Annual Visa Limits
Each family preference category has a limited number of visas issued per year. When more people apply than there are available slots, a queue forms.
🌍 Country Caps
No more than 7% of total visas can go to one country. Countries like Mexico, India, and the Philippines hit this cap quickly, causing much longer wait times.
📈 High Demand
U.S. citizens and green card holders file hundreds of thousands of I-130 petitions each year, far outpacing available visa numbers.
🕐 Processing Delays
USCIS faces staffing shortages, backlogs from COVID-19, and security screening slowdowns — all adding to the delay in approvals.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to process my petition?
Processing times vary depending on the form and your USCIS service center. On average, it takes 8–14 months.
Can I work while my petition is pending?
If you filed for a work permit (Form I-765), you may be able to work legally after it's approved.
What happens if I miss a biometrics appointment?
USCIS may deny your case. You must reschedule the appointment or explain your absence immediately.
Quick Immigration Assessment
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Green Card Wait Times by Category
Family-Based Categories
| Category | Eligibility | Wait Time |
|---|---|---|
| F1 | Unmarried sons and daughters (21+) of U.S. citizens | ~7 years |
| F2A | Spouses and children (under 21) of lawful permanent residents | ~1–2 years |
| F2B | Unmarried sons and daughters (21+) of lawful permanent residents | ~6 years |
| F3 | Married sons and daughters of U.S. citizens | ~13 years |
| F4 | Brothers and sisters of U.S. citizens (petitioner must be 21+) | ~15 years |
Employment-Based Categories
| Category | Eligibility | Wait Time |
|---|---|---|
| EB-1 | Priority workers (extraordinary ability, professors, execs) | Current to ~1 year |
| EB-2 | Advanced degree holders or exceptional ability | ~2–4 years |
| EB-3 | Skilled workers, professionals, and other workers | ~4–6 years |
| EB-4 | Special immigrants (religious workers, broadcasters, etc.) | ~2–4 years |
| EB-5 | Investors ($800K–$1.05M in U.S. job creation) | ~3–5 years |
Green Card Case Timeline
Note: Timelines vary based on USCIS processing center and case type.
Green Card Eligibility Quiz
If you received a 2-year conditional green card based on marriage or investment, you must file to remove the conditions and obtain a 10-year green card.
Common Petitions:
- Form I-751: For spouses who received a conditional green card through marriage.
- Form I-829: For EB-5 investors who received a conditional green card through entrepreneurship.
When to File: Within 90 days before your conditional green card expires.
Waivers May Be Available: If you're divorced, your spouse is abusive, or other exceptions apply, you may still file individually.
U.S. Citizenship Services
Helping you navigate the final step in your immigration journey with clarity and confidence.
Naturalization (N-400)
Step-by-step support through the N-400 application process, eligibility screening, and interview preparation.
Certificate of Citizenship (N-600)
For those who automatically became citizens through parents—guidance on filing the N-600 to document it.
Interview & Test Prep
Coaching to help you pass the English and civics exams and feel confident at your USCIS interview.
Already Applied for U.S. Citizenship?
Get ready for your big day with confidence! Our free, interactive Citizenship Mock Interview helps you practice real N-400 interview questions, understand what to expect, and improve success.
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Citizenship Eligibility Quiz
Take our quick quiz to see if you're ready to apply for naturalization.
Are you at least 18 years old?
Do you have a Green Card (permanent resident)?
How long have you had your Green Card?
Have you lived continuously in the U.S. for the past 3 or 5 years?
Have you been physically present for at least half of that time?
Do you speak, read, and write basic English?
Have you lived in your current state for at least 3 months?
Do you have a record of good moral character?
N-400 Application Checklist
Citizenship Timeline - From Filing to Oath
Month 0
1-2 Months
6–10 Months
Same–30 Days
7–12 Months
Top 10 Citizenship Interview Questions
- Why do you want to become a U.S. citizen?
- Have you ever claimed to be a U.S. citizen?
- Have you ever failed to file taxes?
- Do you support the Constitution?
- Are you willing to take the Oath of Allegiance?
- How many amendments are there to the Constitution?
- Who is the current President of the U.S.?
- What is one right only for U.S. citizens?
- Name one branch of government.
- What do we show loyalty to when we say the Pledge of Allegiance?
of permanent residents naturalize
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