US Immigration Visas : Immigrant Visas

Immigrant visa categories (permanent visas commonly known as green cards) are generally based on personal merit (including education, career skills, and financial means), on refugee status, or on immediate family connections. In some categories a green card can be acquired fairly quickly, but in most months or many years elapse from application because it is based on a quota system. Once acquired, a green card gives the holder the right to live and work in the U.S. permanently.