Permanent Resident
The General Process
An immigrant (also called a "lawful permanent resident") is a foreign national who has been granted the privilege of living and working permanently in the United States. You must go through a multi-step process to become an immigrant. More >>
- The State Department must give you an immigrant visa number, even if you are already in the United States. For more information, see Immigrant Visa Numbers.
- If you are already in the United States, you may apply to adjust to permanent resident status. (If you are outside the United States, you will be notified to go to the local U.S. consulate to complete the processing for an immigrant visa.)
