How Families Can Build Their American Dream: A Friendly Guide to U.S. Visas, Green Cards, and Citizenship
Experts say that understanding the process is the key first step. Whether the goal is a short visit or a permanent move, following the legal path can open doors to long-term opportunity.
Starting With a Visa
The first step for most travelers is a U.S. visa. The type of visa depends on the purpose of the visit.
- Tourist Visa (B-2): For vacations, visiting relatives or receiving medical care.
- Business Visa (B-1): For business meetings, conferences or trade activities.
- Student Visa (F-1 or M-1): For academic or vocational study.
- Exchange Visitor Visa (J-1): For programs such as au pair, summer work or academic exchanges.
To apply, travelers must have a valid passport, complete the DS-160 online form, upload a compliant photo, pay the application fee — about $185 — and attend an interview at the U.S. Embassy in Abuja or Consulate in Lagos.
Applicants between the ages of 14 and 79 are usually required to appear in person. Consular officers review each case individually, focusing on honesty and preparedness.
Building a Life: Green Card Opportunities
For many families, the dream extends beyond visiting. A Green Card, or permanent resident status, allows holders to live and work in the United States indefinitely.
There are several main paths to a Green Card:
- Family Sponsorship: U.S. citizens can petition for close relatives such as spouses, children or parents. Permanent residents can also sponsor some family members, though wait times may vary.
- Employment Sponsorship: U.S. employers may sponsor workers in categories ranging from skilled trades to advanced professionals.
- Diversity Visa Lottery: Each year, people from countries with low immigration rates, including Nigeria, may qualify to apply through the Diversity Visa program.
- Refugee or Asylee Status: Those granted protection in the U.S. may apply for permanent residency after one year.
Applicants must file the proper immigration forms, undergo a medical examination and interview, and show they have no disqualifying criminal or health issues.
Immigration attorneys are important in the process and they maintain that patience and persistence are key. “Each document and interview brings you one step closer to making the U.S. your home,” said attorney A. M. Archibong, who practices law in Washington D.C.
From Resident to Citizen
After living as a permanent resident for several years, immigrants can take the final step — becoming a U.S. citizen through naturalization.
Applicants must:
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Have had a Green Card for five years, or three years if married to a U.S. citizen.
- Have lived continuously in the U.S. and been physically present for at least half of that time.
- Demonstrate good moral character.
- Pass an English and civics test covering U.S. history and government.
The process ends with an Oath of Allegiance ceremony, where new citizens promise loyalty to the United States.
“This moment is deeply emotional for families,” said immigration adviser Grace Olayemi, who assists Nigerian immigrants in Texas. “It’s not just paperwork — it’s a promise to a new life, new rights, and new responsibilities.”
A Path Worth Taking
Becoming a U.S. citizen brings privileges such as voting rights, access to more federal benefits and the ability to sponsor relatives for immigration. But advocates emphasize that it also brings a sense of belonging.
The journey may seem long, but thousands of immigrant families complete it each year. With careful preparation and honest effort, families can move from dreaming of America to calling it home.
“America continues to welcome people who want to learn, work and contribute,” Olayemi said. “Every great journey begins with one brave decision — to apply.”
For more information on U.S. visas and citizenship, visit www.archibonglaw.com
