For many immigrants, lawful permanent residency is an important step in their immigration journey. Commonly known as a green card, this documentation allows an immigrant to permanently live and work in the U.S. If an immigrant is seeking to become an American citizen, their green card is an incredibly important part of that process. The application process for a green can be full of challenges, but that shouldn’t prevent you from applying. Here are the steps you will need to complete to apply for your green card.
Step 1. Determine if You are Eligible for a Green Card
Before you can submit an application, you should first determine if you are eligible for a green card. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) provides information to help you decide if you are eligible. Your eligibility will depend on the immigrant category you are applying for, as well as if you are inside the U.S. at the time of application. Your immigration lawyer can help you understand what requirements you must meet to be eligible.
Step 2. File a Petition
In many cases, you will require a sponsor to file your petition for you. The sponsor must be an American employer or citizen. Generally, your employer of U.S. family member will be your sponsor. In some cases, you may be able to file the petition yourself. Your attorney can help you figure out who much submit your petition.
Step 3. File an Application
After your petition has been received and approved by the USCIS, you will be required to complete a green card application with the USCIS, if you are in the U.S., or a visa application with the U.S. consulate in your area, if you are not in the U.S. With your application, you will also need to submit the requested documents.
Step 4. Attend Your Biometrics Appointment
After your application has been submitted, you will be scheduled to attend a biometrics appointment. At this appointment, you will need to provide fingerprints, photographs of yourself and a signature.
Step 5. Attend Your Interview Appointment
You will need to attend an interview at either the U.S. consulate in your home country or the USCIS office in your area. In some cases, your sponsor may also need to attend an interview. During the interview, your application will be reviewed with you and you will answer questions regarding your application. If necessary, bring an interpreter. You may use a friend or relative to interpret.
Step 6. Receive Your Decision
After your interview, you will receive the USCIS’s decision regarding your application. You will either receive your visa to enter the U.S. or a letter of approval if you are adjusting your status. Your green card will arrive by mail several weeks later.
Do You Need Help Getting Your Green Card? - (337) 214-0670
If you have questions regarding your green card application, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our Lake Charles immigration attorneys. Our experienced legal team is ready to help you find answers and navigate the application process. At Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP, we are committed to helping our clients reach their immigration goals.
Learn how we can help by requesting a consultation. Contact our offices today by calling (337) 214-0670.