Eligible green card holders can get US citizenship in just three weeks: Expert

With the date for the US presidential election approaching, Green Card holders are being urged to secure their citizenship and register to vote.

Shekar Narasimhan, Chairman and founder of the Asian American Pacific Islanders (AAPI) Victory Fund, said that under President Joe Biden’s administration, eligible Green Card holders could obtain US citizenship in just three weeks.

The US votes on November 5 to decide on its President.

More than a million Indians are stuck in a long queue for Green Cards, according to US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) data. Many highly skilled professionals from India, including doctors, engineers, and scientists, are facing wait times that could extend for decades to gain permanent residency in the US.

“Being excited and translating that into votes are often two rather distinct things. It’s how you take that energy, persuade people that it’s worth their while, and make sure that they apply for citizenship, which can be obtained in three weeks,” Narasimhan said, as quoted by PTI.

A Green Card, officially called a permanent resident card, signifies an individual’s status as a permanent resident in the United States.

“If you have a Green Card and have been here for five years, get your citizenship. There’s time. Register to vote,” said Narasimhan, as quoted by PTI.

He emphasised the importance of early registration and meeting deadlines in various states. He also suggested creating WhatsApp groups to remind friends about voting.

“In many states, you have to register in advance, and there are deadlines. And finally, create a WhatsApp group, get 20 of your friends on there, remind each other every day why it’s important, and get out to vote,” he said.

The AAPI Victory Fund is one of the first SuperPACs focused on strengthening the political influence of the Asian American Pacific Islander community.

Narasimhan noted that Vice President Kamala Harris’s presidential run has generated significant excitement among Indian-Americans, Asian-Americans, and other groups. To be eligible for citizenship, Green Card holders need to have lived in the US for at least five years.

“So, if you haven’t already, get your citizenship. Register to vote. Vote, and encourage others to vote too,” he urged, noting that all this can be done in 100 days.

According to the Department of Homeland Security, there were 12.9 million Green Card holders living in the US in 2022, with 9.2 million meeting the naturalisation age and residency requirements.