Question on Green Card Eligibility after 10 years residency in us?

[mem2006]

I ask this question based on what I heard recently from a generally knowledgeable source. I had worked in USA for 10 years on H1 Visa and then returned to India. I am receiving Social Security payments, having aquired 40 credits. Am I eligible to apply for a green card based on this fact alone, and not for employment in US? Is there any such legal provision?

Thanks for your help.

[C4us]

No. A green card is not automatic; you will need a way to qualify for a green card. If you are retired, it cannot be on the basis of employment. Unless you have a US citizen child, I cannot think of a means of getting a GC.

The only benefit that you will see that you will be eligible for Medicare without having the 5 year wait that most new GC holders have since you have accumulated enough work credits to qualify.