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Immigration options
The six main routes to the U.S. compared: family, work, investment, study and visit, humanitarian and the lottery.
How does the options explorer work?
Pick the goal closest to yours. The explorer lists the main pathways for that goal, whether each is temporary or leads to a green card, and links to the guide for each. It is a starting point for research, not an eligibility decision. For a full overview, read U.S. immigration options; if your goal is a job, the work visa finder goes into more detail.
Many people qualify for more than one path. Your nationality, family relationships, education, job, investment capital and immigration history all matter. A short consultation with an immigration attorney can rule paths in or out quickly. Prepare with our immigration planning checklist, then email us to be connected with a participating attorney or find free legal help.
Frequently asked questions
Can I apply for more than one immigration option at a time?
Sometimes. For example, people often hold a temporary work visa while an employer sponsors a green card, or enter the diversity lottery while pursuing another path. Some combinations can cause problems, such as immigrant intent on certain visitor or student visas, so ask an attorney.
What is the fastest way to immigrate to the U.S.?
It depends on your category and country. Immediate relatives of U.S. citizens have no annual limit, while many family and employment categories wait years under the Visa Bulletin. Temporary work visas can be faster but do not lead to a green card on their own.
What are the main ways to immigrate to the United States?
Most people get a green card through family, such as a U.S. citizen or permanent resident relative, or through employment, often with an employer sponsor. Other routes include investment under EB-5, humanitarian protection such as asylum or refugee status, and the Diversity Visa lottery for eligible countries. Temporary visas for work or study can be a first step.
Can I immigrate to the U.S. without a job offer or family?
Sometimes. People with an exceptional record may self-petition for an EB-1A green card or the EB-2 National Interest Waiver. Investors may qualify for EB-5. Nationals of eligible countries can enter the Diversity Visa lottery, and people who fear persecution may seek asylum. Each path has strict requirements, so check the guide for each one and talk with an attorney.
Official sources
General information, not legal advice. Immigration rules change and every case is different; talk to a qualified immigration attorney about your situation. USVisa.com is not a government website. Spot an error? Tell us.
