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You may have some frequently asked immigration questions about Green Cards, the application process, and what you need to qualify for one. It can be confusing to navigate the immigration process alone. A lawyer from our firm can explain each step of the process. They can also explain the documents you need and address any issues or concerns you have.
You do not have to seek citizenship on your own. If you or a family member is pursuing United States citizenship, an immigration attorney can help you effectively navigate the visa or Green Card process.
What Is a Green Card?
According to United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) guidelines, a Green Card is a permanent resident card. Obtaining one means you can live and work in the U.S. permanently. Our immigration lawyer can explain all the avenues you have available for obtaining citizenship status or for defending deportation actions.
How Do You Get a Green Card?
Applying for a Green Card is an involved process with many steps to follow and many requests for information to comply with. The first step to applying for a Green Card is determining the appropriate category to file under. USCIS guidelines outline the following steps:
- Submit the appropriate forms
- Attend a biometrics appointment
- Attend an interview
A lawyer can explain how to track your application status, what to expect while you await approval, and how and when you might need to renew your card.
What Is a Biometrics Appointment?
A biometrics appointment is a simple procedure that checks who you are including any criminal records you may have. You will be asked to provide:
- Fingerprints
- Pictures
- Your signature
The biometrics appointment will also determine whether there are any prior immigration violations that have been attributed to you.
What Is Family-Based Immigration?
You can apply to live in the U.S. on a permanent basis via an immigrant visa, according to the U.S. Department of State. Eligibility for this visa includes sponsorship by an immediate family member who is 21 or older. The relative who sponsors you must be a U.S. citizen or have a Green Card as a U.S. lawful permanent resident.
You can obtain a visa as:
- An immediate relative of a U.S. citizen
- A distant relative of a U.S. citizen or relative of a lawful permanent resident
In general, a visa can be requested for a parent, spouse, child, or sibling. Your lawyer can explain any other familial relationships that may qualify.
How Long Does It Take for Your Citizenship Application To Be Assessed?
According to USCIS guidelines, officers generally have up to 120 days to make a decision on your application. If you have not received a response in the allotted time, your lawyer can help you request a judicial review of your request.
The officer who hears your request may:
- Approve your application at that time
- Request additional information
- Deny your application
You are entitled to one of these decisions at the end of the required interview. At that point, you should also receive instructions on any necessary follow-up steps.
What if Your Application Is Denied?
In many cases, you can start the process over and make a new application for citizenship if your application is denied. This process can become complicated. A lawyer can help you start over, have your application reopened, or have it reconsidered.
For a free legal consultation, call (623) 742-5400
Do You Need a Lawyer to Pursue Citizenship?
You could attempt to obtain, complete, and file the various forms required for a complete application on your own. A lawyer can make the immigration process easier to understand. They can also bring familiarity with:
- Immigration forms
- Immigration law
- Court proceedings
- Your rights
- Your responsibilities
An immigration lawyer can also help you avoid time-consuming and potentially costly mistakes. This can include administrative errors, form completion errors, and misunderstandings that might lead to application delays. When a lawyer represents you, they can also clarify complex phrases, terminology, and legal jargon.
How Can a Lawyer Help You Fight Deportation?
Facing deportation can be frightening and daunting. When you are represented by a lawyer, they can defend your interests and fight for you. A lawyer will take the time to listen to your story and develop a strategy for you. They will also ensure you understand the process, possible outcomes, and what you can expect along the way.
Get Answers to Your Immigration Questions
Obtaining U.S. citizenship is a complex process. When our immigration lawyer accepts your case, we take the mystery and confusion out of an otherwise complex process. We take time to answer your most frequently asked immigration questions and ensure you understand the process.
Get started today by contacting our team for a strategic session at New Frontier Immigration Law.
Call or text (623) 742-5400 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
