Some of the most frequent questions that we get at Olubusayo Fasidi PC involve green cards.
These questions usually fall into one of two broad categories:
We take pride in being able to provide answers to both sets of questions and guide our clients through the entire process, from start to finish.
Over the past 10+ years, we have helped numerous clients with green card processing and renewals, and we are confident that we can help you as well. Shoulder to shoulder, we will work with you every step to ensure that the process goes as smoothly as possible for you and that you end up with the outcome you desire.
A Green Card, officially known as a Permanent Resident Card, is evidence that a person has lawful permanent resident status in the United States.
Also known as a Permanent Resident Card or Alien Registration Card
Entitles holder to live and work in the United States indefinitely
Many lawful permanent residents may eventually become eligible to apply for U.S. citizenship through naturalization. The applicable residence period and other eligibility requirements depend on the individual's circumstances.
Eligible for certain government benefits like Social Security and Medicare
Once you have obtained a green card, it is important to remember that the card itself (not the status) is not permanent and will need to be renewed every ten years. This information does not apply to conditional residents who received 2-year green cards. You will also need to carry your green card with you at all times, as it is proof of your legal status in the United States.
You are a spouse of a U.S. citizen.
You are an unmarried child under the age of 21 of a U.S. citizen.
You are a parent of a U.S. citizen who is at least 21 years old.
You are a first, second or third immigrant worker.
You are a special immigrant.
You were granted asylum status at least 1 year ago.
You were admitted as a refugee at least 1 year ago.
You are a human trafficking or crime victim.
You are a victim of abuse.
You have resided continuously in the U.S. since before Jan. 1, 1972.
There are several ways to obtain a green card in the United States
Through a family member who is a U.S. citizen or green card holder. This is the most common pathway.
Through employment with a U.S. employer who sponsors your application.
By winning the annual diversity visa lottery program.
As a refugee or asylee after one year of presence in the U.S.
Through certain humanitarian programs for victims of abuse, crime, or trafficking.
Through special programs like the Registry provision for long-term residents.
The first step in applying for a green card is determining which category you fall into. There are several different categories, and each has its own set of requirements that must be met.
The next step is to file the proper paperwork with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This will include an application and any supporting documents that are required.
USCIS may schedule you for an interview depending on the type and circumstances of your application. The purpose of the interview is to verify the information on your application and to obtain any additional information that may be needed.
Once the interview is complete, the USCIS officer will make a decision on your case. If you are approved, you will be issued a green card. If the application is denied, the available options depend on the type of case and reason for denial and may include a motion, appeal where permitted, renewed application, or other immigration relief.
As mentioned previously, a green card is not permanent and will need to be renewed every ten years. The renewal process is typically very similar to the initial application process, though it may be slightly simpler.
Fill out an application. Include all of the same information as on your original application, plus any updated information about employment or education status. Also, include a new photo.
Attend an interview at a local USCIS office, if required. Not all renewal applications require an interview.
Once your application is approved, you will receive a new green card in the mail. This process can take several months, so make sure to start the renewal process well before your current green card expiration date.
If you have any questions about renewing your green card or the green card renewal process in general, don't hesitate to contact an experienced Green Card Processing and Renewals Attorney at Olubusayo Fasidi PC for help.
With over a decade of experience, Olubusayo Fasidi PC has helped countless clients with Green Card processing and renewals. We are committed to working shoulder-to-shoulder with you every step of the way to ensure a smooth process and a positive outcome. We will:
By ensuring accuracy and completeness in your application.
For your application, ensuring you apply through the most advantageous pathway.
Interview preparation, and appeals if necessary.
Such as marriage, divorce, or employment changes, that could impact your Green Card status.
Like lost, stolen, or damaged Green Cards.
For renewal deadlines and important documentation requirements.
While you can go through the Green Card application and renewal process on your own, having a Green Card Processing and Renewals Attorney will give you better chances of success and peace of mind, knowing that your case is being handled by a professional.
An attorney can help you with the entire process, from start to finish. This includes determining which category you fall into, filing the necessary paperwork, preparing for the interview, and appealing a denial, if necessary.
An attorney can also help you if you have had a change in your circumstances, such as getting married or divorced, having a child, or changing jobs. These changes can affect your green card status and an attorney can advise you on how to proceed.
Finally, an attorney can help you if you run into any problems with your green card, such as if it is lost or stolen.
Green card applications can take months or even years to process, causing uncertainty and stress.
We help you prepare a complete and accurate application to avoid unnecessary delays and can assist with expedite requests in certain circumstances.
USCIS may request additional documentation, which can be confusing and time-consuming.
We anticipate potential RFEs and prepare comprehensive documentation upfront. If an RFE is issued, we help you respond effectively within the deadline.
Applications can be denied for various reasons, including errors, missing information, or eligibility issues.
We carefully review your application to minimize the risk of denial. If a denial occurs, we can help you file an appeal or a motion to reopen/reconsider.
Losing your green card can create significant problems for travel, employment, and identification.
We help you file Form I-90 to replace your green card and can assist with temporary documentation while you wait for the replacement.
Life changes like marriage, divorce, or job changes can affect your green card status.
We provide guidance on how these changes impact your status and help you take appropriate action to maintain your permanent residency.
An expired green card can cause problems with employment, travel, and other activities.
We help you file for renewal before expiration and can assist with documentation to prove your continued permanent resident status while waiting for renewal.