Understanding Immigrant Classes of Admission to the U.S.
Becoming a Lawful Permanent Resident (LPR), or “green card” holder, marks the start of a new chapter of opportunities in the United States. This status allows individuals to live and work anywhere within the country and paves the way for them to apply for U.S. citizenship, given that they meet specific criteria. The journey to LPR status navigates through various classes of admission as outlined by the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA). This article examines these classes and avenues, such as family reunification, economic contributions, humanitarian grounds, and diversity visas, and examples of each class.