If you’re navigating the U.S. immigration process, you might be wondering: Can I apply for two green cards at the same time? The answer is yes—under U.S. immigration law, it is entirely possible to pursue multiple green card applications simultaneously. This strategy is often used to improve an applicant’s chances of securing permanent residency, particularly when one pathway is less certain or takes longer to process.
Why Would Someone Apply for Two Green Cards?
There are several reasons why an applicant may decide to submit two separate green card petitions:
- Backup Planning: If one green card category is highly competitive or uncertain (e.g., National Interest Waiver), an applicant may file a second petition under a more predictable category such as the EB-5 investor visa.
- Changing Circumstances: Applicants may begin the green card process under one category and later become eligible for another. For example, someone with an EB-5 application pending may marry a U.S. citizen and become eligible for a marriage-based green card.
- Strategic Timing: Some categories move faster than others. Filing under multiple categories can help applicants adjust their strategy based on which application progresses more quickly.
Common Dual Filing Scenarios
A person may qualify for a National Interest Waiver due to their work or research, and also choose to invest and apply for an EB-5 green card. If one petition is denied or delayed, the other may continue.
Applicants who originally file under the EB-5 investor program may later marry a U.S. citizen. In this case, they can file a concurrent marriage-based green card petition while the EB-5 case remains pending.
- Employment-Based + Family-Based
An individual working in the U.S. on a temporary visa might be sponsored by an employer (e.g., EB-2 or EB-3) and also have a qualifying family relationship allowing them to apply for a green card through a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident relative.
Are There Any Risks in Filing Multiple Green Card Applications?
While applying for multiple green cards is allowed, it’s important to:
- Keep USCIS informed of all pending petitions and ensure all information across forms is consistent.
- Avoid misrepresentation or fraud, particularly if you’re applying in different categories with conflicting eligibility claims.
- Be prepared to withdraw one petition once a green card is issued under another category. You cannot receive two green cards at once.
Final Thoughts
Filing multiple green card applications can be a smart and strategic move—but only when executed properly. An experienced immigration attorney can help assess your eligibility, minimize risks, and ensure your applications are structured for success.
Book a consultation with our immigration team today to explore your green card options and build a strategy that maximizes your chances of approval.
