Receiving your EB-3 green card after the interview is the final stage of the employment-based immigration journey, when the case has been approved and the applicant officially becomes a permanent resident. Understanding the sequence of final steps helps you wait with peace of mind. This article describes the process of receiving your EB-3 green card after the interview, from approval to holding the card in hand.
Receiving Your EB-3 Green Card After the Interview: When the Case Is Approved
When the officer decides to approve the case, the applicant usually receives a notice approving the application to adjust status. This is the milestone confirming they have become a lawful permanent resident.
Permanent resident status takes effect from the date of approval, even before the physical card arrives. The applicant already has the full rights and obligations of a permanent resident from this point on.
How the Green Card Is Delivered
The physical permanent resident card is produced and mailed to the address the applicant has registered. Therefore, keeping an accurate address on file with the immigration agency is important to avoid the card being lost.
Delivery time varies depending on the period, usually within a few weeks after approval. If it takes too long, the applicant can contact the immigration agency to check.
What to Do Once You Have the Green Card
When you receive the card, you should carefully check the information printed on it: name, date of birth, expiration date. If there is an error, you should notify the immigration agency to have it corrected promptly.
As a permanent resident, you should learn about your rights and obligations through the official guide for new permanent residents to integrate smoothly into life in the United States.
Summary
Receiving your EB-3 green card after the interview marks the completion of the employment-based immigration journey. Permanent resident status takes effect as soon as it is approved, while the physical card is mailed afterward. You should keep your address accurate and carefully check the information when you receive the card.
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References
- USCIS — Green Card Processes and Procedures: https://www.uscis.gov/green-card/green-card-processes-and-procedures
- USCIS — Welcome to the United States: A Guide for New Immigrants: https://www.uscis.gov/welcomers
Read more: Overview of the EB-3 visa for US immigration · Consular Processing EB-3 vs. Adjustment of Status: Key Differences to Know
