5,014 Kenyans Among the 1,018,340 Foreigners Granted US Green Cards Granted in 2022

The United States continues to be a primary destination for immigrants worldwide, with its immigrant population surpassing that of several major countries combined.

In 2022, 1,018,340 individuals were granted permanent residency in the US, reflecting the nation's enduring appeal as a land of opportunity. Kenya, though not among the top contributors to US immigration, plays a notable role in the broader immigration landscape. Many Kenyans seek opportunities in the United States through various channels, with the Diversity Visa (DV) program being a significant avenue. In 2022, 5,014 Kenyans received green cards and ranked number 37 out of 126. This program, established by the Immigration Act of 1990, aims to diversify the US immigrant population by offering up to 55,000 immigrant visas annually through a random selection process.

The number of Kenyans receiving green cards in recent years has been influenced by various factors, including economic conditions, educational opportunities, and family reunification. Kenyan citizens who have been successful in the Diversity Visa lottery face a significant process before realizing their dream of living in the United States. These fortunate individuals must navigate a series of crucial steps to secure their permanent residency. The journey begins with completing a comprehensive application for permanent residency, followed by a mandatory interview at the US consulate in Nairobi. It is imperative that these steps are completed before one is granted permanent residency.

However, winning the lottery is just the first hurdle. Applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria to be granted an immigrant visa. The US government requires that successful applicants possess either a high school diploma or its equivalent, or demonstrate at least two years of work experience in a field that demands specialized training, obtained within the past five years. These requirements ensure that incoming immigrants have the educational or professional background to contribute meaningfully to American society. The ultimate goal for these Kenyan lottery winners is to obtain the coveted "green card," officially known as a permanent resident card.

This document holds immense significance as it serves as official proof of an individual's legal status in the United States. Holders of a green card enjoy a unique status in the United States. While not citizens, they are granted many of the same protections and rights under US law. This includes the fundamental right to live and work anywhere within the country, a privilege that opens up a vast array of personal and professional possibilities. However, with these rights come responsibilities, most notably the obligation to pay US taxes.

Mexico remains the leading source of immigrants to the United States, with 139,000 Mexican nationals receiving green cards in 2022. This trend is driven by various factors, including economic opportunities, improved living conditions, and family reunification. India follows closely, with 127,000 of its citizens acquiring permanent residency in the same year. The influx of Indian immigrants is largely attributed to the country's vast pool of skilled professionals, particularly in the technology and healthcare sectors who are drawn to the US for career advancement and educational prospects.

It's noteworthy that Indian immigration experienced a significant dip in 2020, reaching a decade-low of 46,363 new permanent residents. This decline was likely due to travel restrictions imposed during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the numbers have since rebounded, with 93,450 Indian nationals receiving green cards in 2021, further increasing to 127,012 in 2022. While Mexico and India collectively accounted for 26% of green cards issued in 2022, other countries such as China, the Philippines, and Cuba also contributed significantly to the US immigrant population.

Below are the top 15 recipients:

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