Houston, Texas
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Green Card Processing and Renewals

Expert legal guidance for your permanent residency journey

Expert Guidance

Green Card Processing and Renewals Attorney

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:

  1. Those regarding the initial processing of an application for a green card, and
  2. Those concerning the renewal or replacement of a green card that has already been issued.

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.

Green Card Consultation

We secure your future in America

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Understanding Permanent Residency

What Is a Green Card?

A Green Card, officially known as a Permanent Resident Card, is evidence that a person has lawful permanent resident status in the United States.

Official Identification

Also known as a Permanent Resident Card or Alien Registration Card

Work Authorization

Entitles holder to live and work in the United States indefinitely

Path to Citizenship

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.

Government Benefits

Eligible for certain government benefits like Social Security and Medicare

Important to Remember

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.

Qualification Criteria

YOU MIGHT BE ELIGIBLE IF...

Family Relationship

You are a spouse of a U.S. citizen.

Child of Citizen

You are an unmarried child under the age of 21 of a U.S. citizen.

Parent of Citizen

You are a parent of a U.S. citizen who is at least 21 years old.

Employment-Based

You are a first, second or third immigrant worker.

Special Immigrant

You are a special immigrant.

Asylum Status

You were granted asylum status at least 1 year ago.

Refugee Status

You were admitted as a refugee at least 1 year ago.

Victim Status

You are a human trafficking or crime victim.

Abuse Victim

You are a victim of abuse.

Long-term Resident

You have resided continuously in the U.S. since before Jan. 1, 1972.

Routes to Permanent Residency

PATHWAYS TO A GREEN CARD

There are several ways to obtain a green card in the United States

Family-Based

Through a family member who is a U.S. citizen or green card holder. This is the most common pathway.

  • Immediate relatives of U.S. citizens
  • Family preference categories
  • Spouse or child of a green card holder

Employment-Based

Through employment with a U.S. employer who sponsors your application.

  • Priority workers (EB-1)
  • Professionals with advanced degrees (EB-2)
  • Skilled workers and professionals (EB-3)

Diversity Lottery

By winning the annual diversity visa lottery program.

  • 55,000 visas available annually
  • For countries with low immigration rates to the U.S.
  • Random selection process

Refugee or Asylee

As a refugee or asylee after one year of presence in the U.S.

  • Must apply one year after refugee/asylee status
  • No annual limit for refugees and asylees
  • Immediate family members may be eligible

Humanitarian Programs

Through certain humanitarian programs for victims of abuse, crime, or trafficking.

  • Violence Against Women Act (VAWA)
  • U visa for crime victims
  • T visa for human trafficking victims

Special Programs

Through special programs like the Registry provision for long-term residents.

  • Registry for those in U.S. since before 1972
  • Special immigrant juvenile status
  • Cuban Adjustment Act
Application Process

GREEN CARD PROCESSING

Initial Green Card Processing

1

Determine Eligibility Category

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.

2

File Proper Paperwork

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.

3

Attend Interview

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.

4

Receive Decision

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.

Renewing or Replacing Your Green Card

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.

1

Complete Application

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.

2

Attend Interview (If Required)

Attend an interview at a local USCIS office, if required. Not all renewal applications require an interview.

3

Receive New Card

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.

Pro Tip

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.

Our Services

HOW WE CAN HELP YOU

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:

Increase Your Chances of Success

By ensuring accuracy and completeness in your application.

Guide You on the Correct Category

For your application, ensuring you apply through the most advantageous pathway.

Help with Filing Paperwork

Interview preparation, and appeals if necessary.

Advise You on Changes in Circumstances

Such as marriage, divorce, or employment changes, that could impact your Green Card status.

Assist in Resolving Issues

Like lost, stolen, or damaged Green Cards.

Provide Timely Reminders

For renewal deadlines and important documentation requirements.

Expert Assistance

WHY YOU NEED A GREEN CARD PROCESSING AND RENEWALS ATTORNEY

Immigration Attorney

Professional guidance every step of the way

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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.

Legal Expertise

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.

Navigating Complications

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.

Problem Resolution

Finally, an attorney can help you if you run into any problems with your green card, such as if it is lost or stolen.

Potential Hurdles

COMMON CHALLENGES & SOLUTIONS

Processing Delays

Green card applications can take months or even years to process, causing uncertainty and stress.

Our Solution

We help you prepare a complete and accurate application to avoid unnecessary delays and can assist with expedite requests in certain circumstances.

Request for Evidence (RFE)

USCIS may request additional documentation, which can be confusing and time-consuming.

Our Solution

We anticipate potential RFEs and prepare comprehensive documentation upfront. If an RFE is issued, we help you respond effectively within the deadline.

Application Denials

Applications can be denied for various reasons, including errors, missing information, or eligibility issues.

Our Solution

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.

Lost or Stolen Green Card

Losing your green card can create significant problems for travel, employment, and identification.

Our Solution

We help you file Form I-90 to replace your green card and can assist with temporary documentation while you wait for the replacement.

Changes in Circumstances

Life changes like marriage, divorce, or job changes can affect your green card status.

Our Solution

We provide guidance on how these changes impact your status and help you take appropriate action to maintain your permanent residency.

Expired Green Card

An expired green card can cause problems with employment, travel, and other activities.

Our Solution

We help you file for renewal before expiration and can assist with documentation to prove your continued permanent resident status while waiting for renewal.

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