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As you prepare to apply for a green card, you must take specific steps to ensure you meet the requirements. Although the process can be challenging and sometimes tedious, the result awards you certain rights under your new status.
Our Phoenix, AZ, immigration lawyer can explain how to apply, what the application requires, and what happens after getting a green card. At New Frontier Immigration Law, we are passionate about helping immigrants protect their rights by representing their interests during the green card application process.
Our Immigration Law Firm Can Help You Apply for a Green Card
The U.S. green card application process can be complex. Mistakes made when applying for a green card could cause a delay or even lead to denial. If you are seeking representation in Phoenix, our green card lawyers can offer support by:
- Reviewing your eligibility for a green card
- Explaining the requirements for specific categories of green card eligibility
- Gathering supporting evidence and documentation you need for your application
- Preparing you for a green card interview, which is necessary in many cases
- Representing your interests and protecting your rights as you navigate the process
- Defending your case if you are facing green card revocation or deportation
What Is a Green Card?
A green card is a physical card, usually green in color, that identifies you as a lawful permanent resident (LPR) of the United States. It is available through the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) agency and awards you certain rights as a permanent resident.
In most cases, to apply for a green card, you must:
- Meet the eligibility requirements based on your immigrant category
- Have a sponsor – such as a relative or employer in most cases – file a petition for you
- Wait for a visa to become available based on the specific allocation outlined in 9 F.A.M. § 503.4
- File Form I-485, the Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status with USCIS
After meeting these requirements, green card holders are also eligible to apply for U.S. citizenship – a process known as naturalization, according to 8 C.F.R. 316.2 (b).
For a free case review with a green card lawyer serving Phoenix, call
Requirements to Obtain a Green Card in Phoenix, AZ
To be eligible for a green card, you must meet the criteria for the category you apply under, according to 8 U.S.C § 1255. According to the Department of Homeland Safety (DHS), more than 40 percent of new LPRs consist of immediate family members.
However, you may also qualify to apply for a green card as:
- An employee of a U.S. company
- A refugee or person granted asylum
- A special type of immigrant, such as a juvenile or religious worker
- The victim of human trafficking, abuse, or other crimes
For immigrants in Phoenix, our green card lawyers can explain the exact requirements for your category and the steps you must take to prove eligibility as you pursue a green card.
Responsibilities of U.S. Green Card Holders
Once you have a green card, you must fulfill specific responsibilities to maintain your status as an LPR. These responsibilities include:
- Filing your taxes
- Obeying all U.S. state, and local laws
- Support democracy (not by voting)
- Entering selective service in some cases
You must meet the requirements for holding a green card to maintain your status. Our green card attorneys can help if you have questions about any of these responsibilities.
Our Green Card Lawyers
Rights of Lawful Permanent Residents in the United States
You have specific rights once you obtain a green card and become an LPR. Understanding your rights as a green card holder allows you to take advantage of your new status.
We can explain these rights in detail so you know what to expect. For example, green card holders’ rights include:
- The ability to live in the United States permanently under the condition that you abide by all laws, including immigration-specific laws
- Permission to work in the United States in the job of your choice without restriction
- Eligibility for specific public benefits under certain conditions, such as Social Security, education, financial aid, Medicare, and public housing
- Enjoy protection under all national laws, as well as specific laws in your state and local area of residence
- Free travel throughout the United States and the ability to travel outside of the country with some specific considerations
If you want to travel abroad, it is generally advised that you travel outside the country for less than six months at a time. Under 8 U.S.C. § 1101, you may be subject to issues with your green card status if you leave the country for more than 180 consecutive days. If you are a permanent resident and need to travel abroad, our green card lawyers can help you understand all the requirements and considerations to ensure you maintain your status.
Conditions Where Your Green Card Can Be Revoked
There are some circumstances where you can lose your status as an LPR. Understanding the conditions that can cause USCIS to revoke your green card will help you protect your status. Our green card attorneys can explain how these rules apply to your situation and offer support if you are facing deportation.
According to 8 U.S.C § 1227, your green card can be revoked, and you could be deported for:
- Committing a crime
- Marriage fraud
- Immigration fraud
- Failure to establish permanent residence
- Abandonment of permanent residence
- Failure to notify USCIS of an address change
- Voting in the U.S. elections as a citizen
We can work with you to build a deportation defense and protect your right to maintain LPR status.
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Contact Our Green Card Lawyers for Help in Phoenix Today
If you or someone you know needs help understanding and navigating the process of obtaining a green card, we can help. At New Frontier Immigration Law, we take the time to explain what you need to know and do to become an LPR and work with you every step of the way.
Call us at 623-552-5025 to learn more about how we can help you with your green card.
