The United States green card program allows foreign nationals to live and work in the U.S. on a permanent basis.
In recent years, several African countries have witnessed a growing number of their citizens receiving green cards.
In 2023, the U.S. had 12.7 million green card holders, with nine million eligible for citizenship. As of April 2024, immigrants made up 14% of the U.S. population, totaling 46.2 million people.
Globally, 28.3 million sub-Saharan Africans reside outside their birth countries, with 63% in Côte d’Ivoire, South Africa, Uganda, Sudan, and Nigeria.
The U.S. is the leading destination for African immigrants, followed by the U.K. (1.4 million), France (1.1 million), Italy (524,000), and Canada (435,000). In the U.S., 35.2% of African immigrants are from Eastern Africa, 44.2% from Western Africa, 9.3% from Middle Africa, and 5.5% from Southern Africa.
According to a report from the U.S. Office of Homeland Security, Mexico is the largest source of U.S. immigrants, with 10.7 million, and 139,000 green cards issued in 2022. India follows with 127,000 green cards, driven by skilled professionals in tech and healthcare.
These are the top 10 African countries whose citizens obtained permanent residency in 2022:
1. Nigeria: Leading the list, Nigeria has a total of 12,385 green card recipients. This high number reflects significant migration driven by economic opportunities and family reunification.
2. Egypt: In second place, Egypt has 8,348 green card holders. Many Egyptians migrate to the U.S. for education, employment, and improved living conditions, supported by historical ties between the two countries.
3. Cameroon: Ranking third, Cameroon has 5,879 green card recipients. Political instability and economic challenges prompt many Cameroonians to seek better living standards in the U.S.
4. Ethiopia: With 5,720 green card holders, Ethiopia ranks fourth. A large Ethiopian diaspora in the U.S. seeks educational and professional advancement, as well as family reunification.
5. Ghana: Ghana ranks fifth with 5,451 green cards issued. Ghanaians often migrate for educational and economic opportunities, supported by U.S. programs aimed at improving their quality of life.
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6. Kenya: Close behind, Kenya has 5,014 green card recipients. Kenyans migrate for employment and higher education, with U.S. programs designed to attract skilled workers.
7. Morocco: Morocco ranks seventh with 4,756 green card holders. Many Moroccans seek better job prospects and educational opportunities, with family connections playing a significant role.
8. Congo: With 4,688 green card recipients, Congo is eighth. Political turmoil and economic hardships lead many Congolese to migrate to the U.S. for safety and better opportunities.
9. South Africa: South Africa ranks ninth with 3,535 green card holders. South Africans often seek green cards for work and education, with the U.S. being a popular destination for advanced studies and professional careers.
10. Algeria: Rounding out the list, Algeria has 3,125 green card recipients. Many Algerians migrate to the U.S. for improved economic conditions and educational opportunities, with family reunification also being a key factor.