How to Obtain USA Permanent Residence for Nigerians – Move To USA

Navigating the process of obtaining permanent residency (also known as a Green Card) in the United States can be daunting, especially for Nigerian nationals.

This guide aims to demystify the process by breaking it down into straightforward steps and providing essential details. Let’s explore how Nigerians can achieve their dream of becoming permanent residents in the USA.

 

1. Understanding Permanent Residency

The United States offers several pathways to obtain permanent residency. A Green Card allows individuals to live and work in the U.S. permanently and provides a pathway to U.S. citizenship. The main categories for obtaining a Green Card include:

• Family-Based Green Cards
• Employment-Based Green Cards
• Diversity Visa Lottery (DV Program)
• Asylum or Refugee Status
• Special Immigrant Categories

Each pathway has its unique requirements and processes, making it essential to understand which option suits your situation best.

 

2. Family-Based Green Cards

a. Eligibility

Nigerians who have close family members who are U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents may qualify for a family-based

Green Card. Eligible relatives include:

• Spouse of a U.S. citizen or Green Card holder
• Unmarried children under 21
• Parents of U.S. citizens aged 21 or older
• Siblings of U.S. citizens

b. Application Process

• Petition Filing: A U.S. citizen or Green Card holder must file Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative) on behalf of their Nigerian relative.
• Visa Availability: Once approved, the applicant must wait for a visa to become available. Immediate relatives of U.S. citizens have no waiting period, while others are subject to visa quotas.
• Consular Processing or Adjustment of Status: Applicants outside the U.S. attend an interview at the U.S. Embassy in Nigeria. Those in the U.S. can file Form I-485 for status adjustment.

c. Supporting Documents

• Proof of relationship (e.g., marriage certificates, birth certificates)
• Financial sponsorship (Form I-864, Affidavit of Support)
• Medical examination reports

 

3. Employment-Based Green Cards

a. Eligibility

Nigerians with job offers from U.S. employers or exceptional skills in specific fields may qualify under these categories:

• EB-1: For individuals with extraordinary abilities, outstanding professors, or multinational executives
• EB-2: For those with advanced degrees or exceptional abilities
• EB-3: For skilled workers, professionals, or other workers

b. Application Process

• Labor Certification: Most applicants require a PERM Labor Certification from the U.S. Department of Labor, ensuring no qualified U.S. workers are available.
• Petition Filing: Employers file Form I-140 (Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker).
• Visa Availability and Consular Processing: Similar to family-based pathways, applicants wait for visa availability and undergo consular processing or adjustment of status.

c. Supporting Documents

• Job offer letter
• Evidence of qualifications (e.g., degrees, certifications)
• Proof of work experience

 

4. Diversity Visa Lottery (DV Program)

a. Overview

The Diversity Visa Lottery is a popular route for Nigerians due to its simplicity and accessibility. The program allocates 50,000 visas annually to individuals from underrepresented countries, including Nigeria.

b. Application Process

• Registration: Applicants register online during the open application period on the official DV Program website.
• Selection: Winners are selected randomly and notified via the same website.
• Visa Application: Selected applicants complete Form DS-260 and attend an interview at the U.S. Embassy.

c. Key Tips

• Ensure your application is accurate and free from errors.
• Meet the minimum education or work experience requirements.
• Avoid scams and only use the official DV Program website.

 

5. Refugee or Asylum Status

a. Eligibility

Nigerians facing persecution due to race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group can apply for asylum or refugee status.

b. Application Process

• Asylum: Apply within one year of entering the U.S. by filing Form I-589.
• Refugee Status: Apply outside the U.S. through a U.S. Refugee Admissions Program (USRAP) partner organization.
• Green Card Application: After one year of approved asylum or refugee status, file Form I-485 to adjust your status.

 

6. Special Immigrant Categories

These include:

• Religious Workers: For individuals employed in a religious vocation.
• Special Immigrant Juveniles: For minors who have been abused, abandoned, or neglected.
• Victims of Abuse or Crimes: Under categories like VAWA or the U Visa.

 

7. General Requirements and Tips

a. Financial Preparation

Application fees can range from $200 to over $1,000. Budget for additional costs like medical exams, translations, and travel.

b. Document Preparation

Ensure all documents (e.g., passports, birth certificates, marriage certificates) are accurate and up-to-date.

Translate documents not in English.

c. Legal Assistance

Consult with an immigration lawyer for complex cases or if you encounter challenges.

d. Avoiding Scams

Be cautious of unauthorized agents or services promising guaranteed Green Cards.

 

8. Conclusion

Obtaining U.S. permanent residency as a Nigerian involves understanding the different pathways, meeting eligibility requirements, and carefully following application processes.

Whether you pursue family sponsorship, employment opportunities, the Diversity Visa Lottery, or another route, preparation and adherence to guidelines are key.

By staying informed and seeking professional advice when needed, you can navigate the journey to permanent residency successfully.