Take a look at what it requires to become a U.S. citizen:

1. In most cases, someone must “sponsor” you, or file an immigrant petition for you.
2. Once the petition is approved, and there is a visa available in your category, you apply for either a Green Card or an immigrant visa.
3. You get a medical examination.
4. You go to an interview.
5. You receive a decision on your application.

Top Types of Immigrant Visas

Most people who come to the U.S. using an immigrant visa receive one of the following types:

• Family-based visa, which is based on a family relationship with a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.
• Employment-based visa, which generally requires a job offer from a U.S. employer.

Review the step-by-step process for getting a family- or employment-based visa.

Another popular way to seek an immigrant visa is through the Diversity Visa Lottery program. This program allows foreign citizens from countries with low immigration rates to the United States to participate in an annual, random drawing for an immigrant visa.

After You Get Your Immigrant Visa

Once you get your immigrant visa, you’ll have to pay a USCIS immigrant fee before you’ll receive your Green Card. The best time to pay the fee is after you pick up your immigrant visa from the Department of State and before you depart for the United States.  

When you receive your immigrant visa, you’ll get a sealed immigrant visa packet of documents which you’ll give to officials at the U.S. port of entry. If you pass inspection, you’ll be admitted to the U.S. as a permanent resident, and will receive your Green Card in the mail.