These countries’ nationals are receiving the most US Green Cards

Several people across the globe dream of living in the US. They either seek better opportunities or to flee conflict and poverty. The US is home to more immigrants than any other country, surpassing the combined totals of Russia, Saudi Arabia, Germany and the UK.

Having a US Green Card (or a Permanent Resident Card in official terms) permits a person to live and have a job permanently in the country. The steps one must take to apply for a Green Card vary depending on their individual situation.

In order to apply for a Green Card, a person must be eligible under one of multiple categories, such as:

Green Card through Family

Green Card through Employment

Green Card as a Special Immigrant

Green Card through Registry

Green Card through Refugee or Asylee Status

Green Card for Human Trafficking and Crime Victims

Green Card for Victims of Abuse

Green Card through other categories

US Green Card recipients, by country of origin

In total, 1,018,340 people received green cards in 2022. Data sources from the Office of Homeland Security statistics highlight the top 15 countries of origin for people receiving permanent residency in the US that year.

1. Mexico – 138,772

2. India – 127,012

3. China – 67,950

4. Dominican Republic – 40,152

5. Cuba – 36,642

6. Philippines – 35,998

7. El Salvador – 30,876

8. Vietnam – 24,425

9. Brazil – 24,169

10. Colombia – 21,723

11. Venezuela – 21,025

12. Honduras – 17,099

13. Guatemala – 16,990

14. Jamaica – 16,482

15. South Korea – 16,172

Mexico & India make up 26% of total US Green Cards issued

Mexico remains the top contributor to US immigration, at 10.7 million immigrants. Consequently, it leads in the number of green cards – nearly 139,000 issued in 2022. Mexicans come to the US seeking economic opportunities, better living conditions and family reunification.

India ranks second. Indian immigration to the US has been increasing due to the country’s large pool of skilled professionals, especially in the technology and healthcare industry, seeking better job prospects and higher education opportunities.