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If you are looking to live and/or work permanently in the United States, understanding the Green Card process is the first step. A Green Card, or Permanent Resident Card, allows you to become a lawful permanent resident, but the process to obtain one can be complex. Different paths, rules, and requirements apply depending on your particular situation.
At Brown Immigration Law, our Green Card lawyers in Columbus can help make sure your forms are completed correctly, all required documents are submitted, and deadlines are met. Schedule a consultation with us to get the assistance you need.
What is a Green Card?
A Green Card, also known as a Permanent Resident Card, is proof that a person has been granted permanent residency in the United States. Holding a Green Card allows you to have lawful status, live and work in the U.S. indefinitely, travel internationally with less restrictions, and, in most cases, eventually apply for U.S. citizenship.
Green Card holders enjoy many of the same rights as U.S. citizens, such as employment opportunities and access to social benefits, while also taking on responsibilities like paying taxes and obeying the law.
What is the Green Card Process?
There are many different ways that an individual can become a Green Card holder, but the process varies greatly depending on the category you fall under and whether or not you currently reside in the U.S.
How Do You Get a Green Card?
In order to enter the United States as a lawful permanent resident, you must undertake the process of securing an immigrant visa through one of many different routes.
Generally speaking, permanent residency status can be achieved through a number of different ways. The most common forms are:
- Through a sponsoring family member;
- Through a sponsoring employer;
- Self-sponsorship as a person of extraordinary ability or through a National Interest Waiver;
- Investing in a U.S. business while simultaneously creating jobs for US workers;
- Being selected from the Diversity Visa Lottery; and
- By being a political refugee and being granted asylee status.
Though there are other ways to legally obtain a Green Card, these special allowances are rather narrow in application.
Special Green Card consideration is given to:
- Abused spouses and children of U.S. citizens or permanent residents
- Widow(er)s of U.S. citizens
- Persons born to foreign diplomats in the U.S.
- Armed forces members
- Victims of criminal activity or trafficking
Adjustment of Status (When You Reside in the U.S.)
If you are currently living in the United States, you can apply for an adjustment of status, requiring you to take the following actions:
- Determine under which category you will be pursuing your Green Card (i.e., through family, employer, etc.)
- File your immigration form or have your sponsoring family member, employer, or other individual file
- Verify that the proper visa is available
- Fill out an application to register for permanent residency or adjust your immigration status
- Get fingerprinted and have your photo taken at an Application Support Center
- Attend your interview that is scheduled with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)
- Receive the final decision regarding your status via the mail
Consular Processing (When You Reside Outside the U.S.)
If you are not currently residing in the United States, you may be eligible for permanent residency through consular processing. This requires that you obtain your visa from a U.S. Consulate located in a foreign country.
Take the following actions if this applies to you:
- Determine which immigration category fits your situation
- File the appropriate immigration forms with the USCIS for approval of the visa classification sought
- Await the decision made by the USCIS
- You will then be summoned by the National Visa Center to fill out additional applications, supply additional evidence, and pay application fees
- Schedule your appointment
- If any major changes occur with your personal situation or home address, notify the National Visa Center immediately
- Should you be granted an immigrant visa, you will get a Visa Packet that must be presented before the customs officer upon your arrival in the U.S.
- After arriving in the U.S., you can expect your Green Card within the next 45 days
Can a Lawyer Help Me With My Green Card Application?
Yes. Applying for a Green Card is a detailed process that involves multiple forms, supporting documents, and strict deadlines. Even a small error or omission can cause long delays or lead to a denial.
Whether you are pursuing a Green Card for yourself, a loved one, or an employee, a Columbus Green Card lawyer at Brown Immigration Law can guide you through the process from start to finish. Our attorneys help:
- Assess eligibility: Determine which Green Card category fits your situation and what requirements apply.
- Prepare and submit application: Collect and organize all necessary documentation, ensuring every form meets USCIS standards.
- Respond to USCIS requests: Handle Requests for Evidence (RFEs) or other inquiries quickly and accurately.
- Prepare for interviews: Coach clients for USCIS interviews and other required hearings.
- Advocate in complex situations: Address issues like prior immigration violations, inadmissibility, or special circumstances to strengthen your case.
With more than a century of combined legal experience, our team offers both seasoned guidance and hands-on knowledge in every matter we handle. Our mission is to help clients achieve permanent residency and create a strong foundation for their future in the United States.
Take the Next Step Toward Your Green Card
The Green Card process can be complex, but you’re not alone. Brown Immigration Law is ready to assess your individual needs and provide guidance at each stage. Contact our Columbus immigration team today to explore your Green Card options.
