There are many ways to qualify for legal permanent residency (LPR). Often a family member or employer sponsors immigrants. Another avenue is refugee status or asylum. And abuse victims may be eligible through the Violence Against Woman Act (VAWA).Applying for a green card while outside the U.S. is called consular processing. This may take up to six months. Applying while inside the U.S. is called adjustment of status. This may take a year. But if an employer is sponsoring, the process can be expedited.