Want to get your green card and become a citizen or legal alien in the United States? Just read through this guide to find out all about how to become a legal immigrant.

Becoming legal in America is by no means a simple process. If you weren't born in this country, you will need to prove that you are dedicated to the United States, and will need to prove yourself worthy of citizenship. However, if you have the drive, and are willing to put time, work and money into the endeavor, you can eventually be a citizen of the country.

Robert Todd talks about where to find information on becoming a legal immigrant in the United States when you live in another country. You can apply for legal immigration status online. An employer or relative needs to fill out a petition in order to get the process started. While few visas are issued, a complete and well reasoned petition can raise the chances of being granted a visa.

To streamline the process, obtain a visa before coming into the country. Getting a work visa or other nonimmigrant visa will allow you to enter the United States legally, which will make it that much easier to stay here legally. Becoming an illegal immigrant presents its own risks and challenges that you may want to avoid.

In order to get your green card, you must have either an employer or a relative file a petition on your behalf. This petition should demonstrate that you are an asset to this country, either in terms of being a valuable employee or a needed family member. This petition is then sent to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service for review. If it is accepted, you will be issued a green card in a few months.

After five years of residence in the country, you will be eligible to apply for permanent United States citizen status. Your green card is good for ten years, so you have some time to prepare.