The United States is arguably the number one destination for Nigerian immigrants. The first step is deciding to relocate to America, and the next is knowing the most suitable process. To move to America permanently, you must understand the conditions to meet.
Knowing what lies ahead saves us from the challenges and expenses we could incur if we are not aware. There are different alternatives to guide your immigration to America from Nigeria.
If you are ready to make the next bold step, I will show you how to immigrate to the USA from Nigeria, the types of immigration programs, and the best options. I will also provide different alternatives to help you have a pool of choices. Here we go!
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Immigrant vs. Nonimmigrant Visas
To immigrate to America from Nigeria means to relocate permanently by acquiring a green card. A green card, otherwise known as an ‘immigrant visa’ or a ‘lawful permanent residence,’ allows unrestrained employment and provides a pathway to American citizenship. It can be renewed indefinitely.
However, not everyone is qualified for an American green card. Its application could also be time-consuming and expensive; many opt for a temporary visa valid for visits, study, or work. With it, you can live in the country for some years.
You can start with a temporary visa before obtaining a green card. If you are ready to immigrate to the US from Nigeria, you will learn more about these two visa types and what is best for you.
What are the Types of Immigrant Visas?
To immigrate to America from Nigeria, you must first identify the visa type you are eligible for. The following options are available for you, and you are most likely to qualify for one or more.
Family-based green cards
Most American permanent visas are issued to family members of American citizens and green card holders. Spouses, parents, children, siblings, and widows/widowers can qualify for this visa type. However, before opting for this, find out the conditions for applying for a family-based visa.
Employment-based green cards
This is one of the most popular visas in America because many immigrants come through this pathway. Employment-based green cards are issued in five categories according to your skills or other benefits with which you come to the country.
There are EB-1, EB-2, EB-3, EB-4, and EB-5 green card categories. The first four focus on your employment skills. You may need an American employer to sponsor your visa application. You may also need to show specialized training or extraordinary abilities to qualify.
On the other hand, the EB-5 visa is issued to investors with $500,000 to $1,000,000 and can create jobs in the country. As a Nigerian, you must seek legal and financial advice before exploring this route.
In addition, an employment-based visa is not the same as a work permit. The latter is called an Employment Authorization Document, which confers on marriage-based visa holders the right to work in the country.
Humanitarian green cards
Refugees and asylees can immigrate to America through humanitarian green cards. Other eligible Nigerians include victims of crime, abuse, and human trafficking. A lawyer will be required to obtain this visa type due to the complications of handling it.
Diversity lottery green cards
Occasionally, America runs a green card lottery that randomly awards individual visas yearly. The country selects up to 50,000 immigrants through this medium. You can try your luck to obtain a diversity lottery green card.
Longtime-resident green cards
Long-time resident green cards are issued to people who have lived in America, whether lawfully or otherwise, for ten years and have been physically present for half of the time. If you qualify, you must demonstrate that you have no criminal record and that your deportation would cause you or your family members extreme hardship. It is also known as a cancellation of removal visa.
What are the Requirements for a Green Card?
To apply for a green card in America as a Nigerian, you must fulfill numerous requirements. The following are the conditions:
Valid passport: You must have a valid passport that extends beyond your intended length of stay by at least six months. It must also demonstrate nonimmigrant intent for temporary visa application.
Petitioner: Some American visa types require a petitioner who is either a permanent resident or a citizen.
Consular interview: All visa types must involve attending a consular interview at an American embassy or consulate in Nigeria.
English language proficiency: Depending on visa type, you may need a language proficiency to show that you can communicate perfectly in English when you immigrate to America from Nigeria.
Financial support: You must have proof of funds indicating you will not be stranded in America when you immigrate. This financial proof covers your expenses during your stay.
Medical examination: This ensures you are not carrying an infectious disease before planning to immigrate to America.
Criminal record: A clean criminal record is compulsory for all visa applicants as proof that you have no affiliate with terrorism at home and abroad.
How do I Apply for an American Green Card?
Each green card has its distinct application process involving specific forms and supporting documents. However, the steps to apply remain the same, which include:
Step 1: Determine your eligibility
You must identify which visa type is the best for your immigration category.
Step 2: File a petition
You must file a petition or application with a suitable government agency, depending on your visa type. Alternatively, your employer would initiate the visa application process if you are going through the employment route. Again, if it is through a family-based route, your family member in America will file the petition on your behalf.
Step 3: Wait for approval
After filing your petition, you must wait for it to be endorsed. The type of green card and other conditions may determine the time taken.
Step 4: Complete biometrics
You must complete your fingerprints and image capture if your application is approved.
Step 5: Attend an interview
You must attend an interview with the USCIS officer. The officer will ask questions regarding your background and application to determine your eligibility.
Step 6: Receive a decision
The decision on your interview and application process will be communicated to you once it is approved. It may be positive or negative, depending on your interviewer’s decision.
What is the Cost of an American Green Card?
The cost of obtaining a green card can range from $1,200 to $8,000, depending on the visa type and the surrounding circumstances.
How long can I wait for my Green Card to be approved?
The processing time for an American visa is dynamic. There could be variations due to certain situations. However, expect it to last between three months and over four years. The employment green card typically takes four to nine months, while a family-based one lasts between eight and 30 months.
Wrapping Up
That’s all you need know about how to immigrate to America from Nigeria. Just so you know, there are numerous reasons people immigrate to America from Nigeria. Determining why you want to move would be best before finding the perfect visa type. All things being equal, the processing time does not take long, and you must meet the eligibility criteria.