According to an information officer of the United States Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS), the identification documents an individual would be required to present in order to process an application for an Alien Registration Receipt Card ("Green Card") would depend upon the individual case (18 Feb. 1992). The source stated that people basing their request on marriage to a United States citizen, for example, would be required to present a marriage certificate, while a person being sponsored by an employer would require certain documents from the latter (Ibid.).

The procedure for obtaining an Alien Registration Receipt Card is usually started by a person other than the individual for whom the card is being requested (employer or close relative, for example), although in some cases the individual in question may start the procedure (Ibid.). The pertinent person normally approaches an Immigration Services office in the United States or a Consulate abroad, fills out a form and presents whatever documents are required for the specific case. If the application is accepted, the individual for whom the card is being requested or individuals concerned in the process may be called for an interview, again depending on the specifics of each particular case (Ibid.). If the request is approved, the INS will issue the corresponding card. The total procedure may take between six months and five years to complete (Ibid.).

The United States Consulate in your Consular Jurisdiction can provide more detailed information based on specific cases.

Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS), Washington, D. C. 18 February 1992. Telephone Interview with Information Officer.