When I get there.......
 

So I was successful with my Immigrant visa last week. I received my passport back yesterday along with the real awkward sized brown envelope.

The brown envelope isn't meant to be opened I understand.

It says on the back of the envelope that I will receive my greencard within 6 months of my arrival date. It also says that If I want to leave the country within that time I need to tell the Officer on my arrival.

Is that how long it takes to come and I can't leave the country until I receive it?

Thanks

Re: When I get there.......
 

No and no.

It should arrive in less than 90 days. Most people get theirs within 30-60 days.

As for leaving the US, at the POE you will be given an I-551 stamp in your passport marked good for one year. This is your paper green. You can travel on that.

Re: When I get there.......
 

Immigrant Visa Arrival

Your green card and/or Welcome Letter should arrive within 3 to 4 weeks of your arrival (also your SS card if you applied on DS-230 II).

You can leave the country before the card arrives; you will use the endorsed visa in your passport. Please read the linked article for more information about traveling the first time with your Immigrant Visa.

Re: When I get there.......
 

Great, thanks.