Foreign nationals obtain lawful permanent resident status mainly in one of two ways. They either immigrate through a family member or through employment. Other ways to obtain a green card include obtaining an investor visa.

For family and employment-based immigrants, a third party (i.e., relative or employer) sponsors the immigrant by petitioning the USCIS. Employment-based immigrants must also obtain a labor certification from the Department of Labor. Once USCIS has approved the immigrant petition, the immigrant must wait for an immigrant visa number to become available from the State Department.

Because the State Department caps immigrant numbers each year, most immigrants must wait a long time for their immigrant number. However, a U.S. citizen's parents, spouse, and unmarried children under the age of 21 may receive an immigrant visa number immediately.

After an immigrant obtains a visa number, the applicant must apply to the USCIS to adjust to permanent resident status. Applicant outside the United States may apply for an immigrant visa at the nearest U.S. consulate.

Pathways to Permanent Residency:

Emigration is the most important event in your life.
It's too important to go it alone.
Immigration law is complex and constantly changing. It's important to retain a professional advisor who monitors legal developments on a full-time basis.
You need an advocate to protect your rights during the process;
don't go it alone.