Thread: Green Card Approval Pending before Match ?

Hi guys,

Does anyone know if the visa status matters more on ERAS or to individual programs?

If my Green Card application is still in process while I submit applications to ERAS, am I still considered as requiring Visa? Or would it help to ask the individual programs if they require GC before Match or as long as I get the GC before residency starts, then it'll be fine?

I appreciate any insights!

Thank you.

~mik

Originally Posted by miklober

Hi guys,

Does anyone know if the visa status matters more on ERAS or to individual programs?

If my Green Card application is still in process while I submit applications to ERAS, am I still considered as requiring Visa? Or would it help to ask the individual programs if they require GC before Match or as long as I get the GC before residency starts, then it'll be fine?

I appreciate any insights!

Thank you.

~mik

i take it you haven't read any of the threads here on residency and how difficult it is if you are visa requiring...go and read them please.

but short answer...if you have the ability to get your GC approved BEFORE you put your application in...do everything you can to make that happen...otherwise let each and every program you are applying to know exactly when you are getting your GC...otherwise it will be very much an uphill battle for you to match.

Originally Posted by miklober

Hi guys,

Does anyone know if the visa status matters more on ERAS or to individual programs?

If my Green Card application is still in process while I submit applications to ERAS, am I still considered as requiring Visa? Or would it help to ask the individual programs if they require GC before Match or as long as I get the GC before residency starts, then it'll be fine?

I appreciate any insights!

Thank you.

~mik

It matters to the individual programs, ERAS is just an applicant portal, they have no say in the matter.

You will select "permanent residency pending" instead of "requiring visa". This will get you past SOME filters that will automatically get rid of visa candidates.

However, like I said, the status is more important to the programs. A friendly and short note to each program coordinator stating your GC situation at the beginning of the season would be prudent. You should explain HOW you are obtaining your GC and your estimated date for having it in your hands, mine was through marriage and not the lottery so they knew it would be approved with a matter of time, you need to explain your situation as well to them so they know that you will have it prior to residency start. Some programs do require the GC prior to them interviewing you, so count those ones out until you receive it. Also, it's important to keep the programs updated...once you receive your GC, send out a short note to all the programs as well (assuming you receiving it prior to rank day) updating them as to your change in status. It could drastically change how you are ranked by many programs.

I went through the same situation this season, I still ranked my top choice, but keep the programs updated.

Ah, I see. Thank you for your reply! Will definitely heed your advice and remember to inform the programs. Mine will also be through marriage, so hopefully the GC process will go smoothly. Thanks again!