For many, living in the United States and achieving the American dream is the ultimate goal. As such, one way in which you may work and live in the United States is by obtaining lawful permanent residence through a green card. If you’re unsure what this is or how to become a lawful permanent resident, it’s in your best interest to continue reading. In addition, you’ll discover how a Queens green card lawyer can assist you through this difficult process.
What Is the Function of a Green Card?
A green card is a physical document given to those who have applied for and successfully obtained lawful permanent residence in the United States. The card itself is green, which is where the term comes from. Those who have obtained a green card are no longer temporary visa holders, but are eligible to remain permanently in the United States, allowing them to live and work freely in the country.
It’s important to understand that becoming a lawful permanent resident is not the same as becoming a citizen. While a lawful permanent resident is eligible to live and work permanently in the United States, they do not have some of the same rights as citizens, including the right to vote, hold public office, or obtain an American passport. However, by obtaining a green card, this offers you a pathway to citizenship if you choose to pursue that at any point.
What Are the Steps Involved in the Process of Becoming a Permanent Resident?
The process of obtaining a green card can be incredibly complicated. You should note that this process can take up to two years, and approval is not guaranteed. As such, the first and most important step is to determine whether or not you are eligible to apply for a green card. Generally, if you meet at least one of the following requirements, you may proceed with the application process:
- You are an immediate family member of a United States citizen
- You are a victim of human trafficking
- You are a refugee
- You are seeking asylum
- You possess extraordinary abilities or have received an offer for a permanent position in the U.S.
Once you have determined eligibility, you must file the correct paperwork. Generally, this is a Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, for those seeking family-based immigration, or a Form I-140, Petition for Alien Worker, for those applying through employment-based means.
After this petition has been approved, you can then apply for your green card. If you are already in the United States on a visa, you may file Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status. If you are outside of the United States, you’ll need to apply through your U.S. consulate. You will then sit for your immigration interview, undergo a medical examination, and have your biometric data taken before the final decision is made.
As you can see, there are a considerable number of steps in this process, and making an error is enough to disrupt the entire process. That is why it is critical to connect with an experienced attorney with Monica Saran-Nace, P.C. Our team understands how overwhelming it can be to navigate these matters, so we are committed to providing you with the best possible outcome. Contact us today to learn more.
