Young couple needs your advice!

[Vika888]

Hello,

I am a greencard holder and won my greencard in lottery. I currently reside in California.

My boyfriend is currently working in London and I planned to move there.
What do I need to do in order to keep my greencard (if anything)? Do I need to spend a particular amount of time in the US each year? (The same question in case I want to become a US citizen)

My boyfriend spent 4 years studying and working in the US (on his student and work visa that is currently expired). We are planning to return to the US at some point and are trying to figure out what would be the best and simplest way to do so:

a) for me to get a citizenship and to get married
(If my permanent resident card says "resident since 02/28/04" does it mean that I may apply for citizenship in October 2006?
How long does it take to process the citizenship application?)

b) to get married "as is" so he can apply for the greencard (in this case I heard it could take forever)

c) he can play in the greencard lottery (He is young European professional, and he thinks he has good chances to win)

d) apply for the greencard based on the fact that he spent 4 years in the US (if it is possible)

I'll appreciate your help and advice very very much.

Vika

[immihelp]

Look at https://www.immihelp.com/retain-greencard-useful-tips/to see how you can retain your green card.

a. 4 years 9 months from 02/28/04
b. You should get married anyway. Once you become citizen, you can upgrade the petition.
c. Depends upon which country he is from. Many countries are not eligible.
d. No.