Obtaining lawful permanent status in the United States can be overwhelming. However, it can also be worthwhile, as it can lead to becoming a U.S. citizen. That is why assistance from a citizenship law firm can make all the difference. They are well-versed in the ever-evolving immigration laws and can provide tailored strategies to maximize your chances of success.
Discover the vital role of an immigration law firm in navigating the Green Card application process efficiently. Here, you can explore the various strategies to get lawful permanent residence status. It also focuses on the steps you must take to apply for it.
How A Citizenship Law Firm Assists You
Navigating the complexities of obtaining a permanent resident card can be daunting. Still, with the assistance of a reputable law firm, your journey becomes seamless. Seasoned attorneys focusing on immigration law provide tailored solutions for your legal needs.
From initial consultation to final approval, these attorneys offer comprehensive support at every process step. Whether you’re seeking family-based sponsorship, employment-based opportunities, or investment avenues, these lawyers craft personalized strategies to maximize your chances of success.
With a deep understanding of immigration regulations and procedures, a dedicated firm with skilled attorneys ensures your application is meticulously prepared, minimizing delays and errors. They will help you realize your dream of permanently living and working in the United States.
The Green Card Application
A Green Card grants non-U.S. citizens permanent residency in the United States. It enables them to live and work legally and may qualify for U.S. citizenship after three to five years. Applying for the legal document can be different if you’re already in the United States or outside the country. There are two primary forms for Green Card applications.
Within The United States. This application process utilizes Form I-485, the Application to Adjust Status. It allows individuals in the United States on nonimmigrant Visas to obtain a Green Card without leaving the country.
Outside The United States. Form DS-260 is the Nonimmigrant Visa Electronic Application. It is for individuals seeking an immigrant Visa outside the United States to become lawful permanent residents.
Depending on your situation, both forms play integral roles in the overall application process. While the process can be daunting, there are strategies you can take toward permanent residency.
Five Strategies To Get A Green Card
Obtaining a permanent resident card marks a significant achievement for numerous individuals striving to establish a life in the United States. Various pathways are available to streamline the journey toward obtaining this vital document. Here are five strategies, each with its timeline and requirements.
Family-Based Immigration
This pathway allows individuals to immigrate to the United States through family connections. There are two main categories of family petitions: Immediate Relative and Family-Based Preference.
Immediate relatives include spouses, unmarried children under 21 years old, and parents of U.S. citizens. This preference offers expedited processing for close family members. On the other hand, family-based preference encompasses more distant relatives, including siblings and adult children of U.S. citizens or permanent residents.
Asylum In The United States
Every year, individuals from various parts of the world arrive in the United States seeking refuge and protection from persecution. This may depend on nationality, religion, race, membership in a particular social group, or political opinion. These asylum seekers are not citizens of the United States and are leaving their home countries because they fear harm or mistreatment.
Eligible applicants must follow specific procedures. Those seeking affirmative asylum are not subject to removal proceedings. They may file a Form I-589, Application for Asylum and Withholding of Removal. Potential asylees in the United States can include spouses and children as dependents. Children must be under 21 and unmarried.
Moreover, applicants in expedited removal with a credible fear determination have specific steps for processing their asylum application. They need to undergo initial screening with Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Also, they must attend an interview with an asylum officer to confirm the legitimacy of their “fear” for this provision.
Through Employment
Numerous non-citizens aspire to work in the United States. This allows people to live in the country for a long time, helping them pursue their American dreams. This process will enable them to work temporarily at first. Later, they can get a Green Card, which lets them stay permanently.
EB-1 Priority Workers
This category is for exceptional people skilled in science, art, education, business, or sports. It also includes extraordinary professors, researchers, and managers of big companies. Applicants don’t need a particular job offer, but they must show they are exceptional or highly qualified in their field.
EB-2 Advanced Degree Or Exceptional Ability
People with extraordinary abilities in their field and advanced degrees belong to this category. This requires a job offer and a labor certification unless they can obtain a National Interest Waiver (NIW).
These categories offer various paths to obtain a Green Card through employment based on qualifications, skills, and investment ability. Each category has specific requirements, requiring careful planning and consultation with immigration professionals.
Diversity Visa Program
This is also known as the Green Card Lottery. It aims to expand the immigrant population in the United States; up to 55,000 Visas are granted annually. These Visas are for people from nations with historically low immigration rates to the United States.
Individuals must meet eligibility requirements based on education or work experience and be from a qualifying country to participate. Selected individuals can then apply for a Green Card through a lottery process. It includes further eligibility checks and interviews at a U.S. consulate or embassy.
U Visa
To qualify for a U Visa, individuals must have suffered substantial physical or mental abuse. This abuse is due to being a victim of qualifying criminal activity. Also, they must be willing to assist the authorities in investigating or prosecuting criminal activity. After obtaining the Visa, individuals can seek lawful permanent residence by meeting specific eligibility criteria. It includes continuous presence in the United States for a specified period and compliance with U.S. laws.
Seeking legal guidance from immigration attorneys can help you with these requirements. By adhering to the advice of skilled lawyers, you can enhance your chances of obtaining permanent resident status and accessing its benefits.
Benefits Of Holding A Permanent Resident Card
As a Green Card holder in the United States, you possess a range of privileges. It affords you stability, opportunity, and protection under the law. Here are some of the benefits you can enjoy.
Permanent Residency
You have the right to reside permanently in the United States. It allows you to establish your home, pursue your aspirations, and build a life within the country’s borders. This privilege remains valid as long as you adhere to the terms of your status and do not engage in actions that would render you removable under immigration law.
Employment Opportunities
You are entitled to seek and engage in employment across various sectors and industries within the country. This includes the freedom to pursue jobs that align with your qualifications, skills, and interests. However, certain positions may be limited to U.S. citizens due to security or regulatory considerations.
Access To Education & Social Services
You can access educational opportunities, including primary, secondary, and higher education institutions. It also includes vocational and technical training programs. Additionally, you may be eligible to receive certain social services and benefits. This includes healthcare, public assistance, and social security, based on your circumstances and the laws of your state.
Travel
You can travel to and from the United States, subject to specific requirements and conditions. International trips are permissible, whether for personal or professional purposes. However, abiding by the pertinent travel and residency guidelines is essential to upholding your legal status.
Family Reunification
A permanent resident card allows eligible individuals in the United States to sponsor certain family members abroad for permanent residency. It facilitates the reunion of separated families and strengthens familial bonds.
Grasping the advantages of possessing a Green Card is pivotal for achieving citizenship and having a smooth transition to life in the United States. Moreover, consulting with a dedicated citizenship law firm like The Medlin Law Firm is crucial. Their skills will guide you effectively through the intricacies of your status, ensuring you navigate the path forward with confidence and clarity.
Summary
An immigration law firm assists in navigating the immigration process, including eligibility assessment and application preparation for permanent residency. With up-to-date knowledge of the policies, they streamline the Green Card application process, which is your first step toward U.S. citizenship.
Strategies for obtaining a permanent resident card include family sponsorship, asylum, employment-based, diversity Visa lottery, and U Visa for crime victims. Holding a Green Card offers benefits from permanent residency to family reunification. With this, an immigration attorney will help you ensure a smoother transition to life in the United States.