Getting a U.S. green card (permanent residency) is a major milestone—but it can also be a long, complicated process. The time it takes in 2025 depends heavily on how you apply, your country of origin, and which green card category you’re applying under. Here’s what you need to know about green card processing times this year.
Average Green Card Processing Times in 2025
| Green Card Type | Estimated Processing Time (2025) |
|---|---|
| Family-Based (Immediate Relative) | 12–24 months |
| Family-Based (Preference Categories) | 2–15+ years (depends on category) |
| Employment-Based (EB-1, EB-2, EB-3) | 12–36 months |
| EB-5 Investor Green Card | 24–48 months |
| Diversity Visa (Green Card Lottery) | 12–18 months |
| Asylum Adjustment of Status | 2–4 years |
| Marriage-Based (inside U.S. – AOS) | 12–24 months |
| Marriage-Based (outside U.S. – Consular) | 14–20 months |
Note: Times are estimates based on 2024–2025 data from USCIS and may vary by service center and individual case.
Key Factors That Affect Your Timeline
1. Green Card Category
There are multiple green card pathways—some are faster, like immediate relative visas, while others, such as the family preference system, can take years due to annual caps.
2. Country of Birth
Some countries like India, Mexico, China, and the Philippines face longer wait times due to per-country limits. Check the Visa Bulletin each month for availability in your category.
3. Application Type
Whether you’re adjusting status from inside the U.S. or applying abroad through consular processing also affects the timeline.
4. USCIS Backlogs and Staffing
Ongoing backlogs, security checks, and changes in immigration policy can also impact processing speeds. In 2025, USCIS has made some digital improvements, but delays still occur.
Breakdown by Application Path
Immediate Relative (Spouse, Parent, Child of U.S. Citizen)
- Adjustment of Status (Form I-485): ~12–20 months
- Consular Processing: ~14–20 months
Marriage-Based Green Card
- Inside U.S.: 12–24 months
- Outside U.S.: 14–20 months (includes I-130 + embassy wait time)
Employment-Based Green Cards
- EB-1 (priority workers): 12–18 months
- EB-2 (advanced degree or exceptional ability): 16–36 months
- EB-3 (skilled/unskilled workers): 18–36 months
Note: Many EB categories also require a PERM labor certification, which adds 8–12 months.
Diversity Visa (DV Lottery 2025)
- If selected: complete process in ~12–18 months
- Must complete the process by September 30, 2025, or your chance is forfeited
Tips to Avoid Delays
- Submit a complete application with all required documentation
- Monitor USCIS case status online regularly
- Respond promptly to Requests for Evidence (RFEs)
- Attend biometrics and interviews as scheduled
- Keep your address updated with USCIS
- Work with an immigration attorney if your case is complex
FAQs
How do I check my green card case status?
Go to USCIS.gov and enter your receipt number in the “Check Case Status” tool.
What is the Visa Bulletin and why does it matter?
It shows visa availability based on your priority date, category, and country. It determines when you can proceed with your green card.
Does having a U.S. citizen spouse speed up my green card?
Yes. Immediate relatives (including spouses) are not subject to annual caps and usually experience faster processing.
