Queens Green Card Attorney
Becoming a lawful permanent resident – or green card holder – is a significant milestone in an individual’s immigration journey in the United States. Lawful permanent residency comes with various benefits and responsibilities individuals to permanently live and work in the country, laying roots for generations to come. If you are facing any uncertainties or challenges on your journey to obtaining a green card, a Queens green card lawyer can guide you.
The experienced immigration legal team at Pollack, Pollack, Isaac & DeCicco, LLP has decades of combined experience helping individuals in Queens and surrounding areas tackle issues related to obtaining or renewing a green card. A Queens green card lawyer can be of service whether you have received a request for evidence from USCIS and are unsure how to respond or would like to determine if a green card is the right option for you.
Navigating the Green Card Application Process
The process comes with various requirements and steps, which can change depending on the type of green card you apply for. A skilled immigration lawyer in Queens can assist you with proactively addressing any issues with your application so that you can avoid unnecessary delays or rejections.
Assessing Eligibility and Gathering Documentation
The green card application process begins with determining what category of green card an individual is eligible for. Once eligibility is determined, the applicant can collect the appropriate documents that prove their eligibility. Documents fall into several types; documents that verify one’s identity, documents that show a relationship with a sponsor, and documents that show good moral character.
Filing Petitions
Many green card applications require petitions to be filed, such as Form I-130 for family-based applicants, and Form I-140 for employment-based applicants. Depending on the case, some applicants may be able to self-petition, such as those pursuing an EB-1 or EB-2 green card, if a national interest waiver is applicable.
Consular Processing or Adjustment of Status
An applicant will either need to undergo consular processing or apply for an adjustment of status depending on whether they are located in the U.S. Each immigration avenue comes with various requirements, procedures, and timelines. An immigration lawyer can offer insight into these processes in more detail.
Biometrics Appointment and Interview
After receiving your application, USCIS will schedule you for a biometrics appointment, where they will collect your signature, photo, and fingerprints. They will then use this information to conduct a background check. Many green card applicants must also attend a USCIS interview, during which they are asked questions about their application and their immigration background.
An experienced immigration lawyer can inform you of the potential questions you can expect to be asked, helping you prepare for and be confident during the interview process.
Awaiting the Decision
The amount of time it may take to receive a green card application decision can vary depending on the details of the application, the number of visas available, and the current caseload at USCIS. Your lawyer may be able to give you an estimated wait duration based on your case, but exact time frames are often unknown.
If any issues come up in your case, such as a request for evidence from USCIS, they can help you respond in an efficient manner to avoid further delay in the processing of your application.
FAQs
Adjustment of status is the process of applying for a green card from within the United States. This process involves changing your legal status from a temporary visa holder to a permanent resident. Adjustment of status can be more efficient and convenient for some applicants. A skilled lawyer can help you determine whether adjustment of status is appropriate for you.
If your green card application is denied, you will get a notice from USCIS that details the reasons for the denial and options you may have for getting your application reconsidered or filing an appeal. A green card lawyer can help you understand the reasons your application was denied and work with you to implement a plan to either address the issues or effectively appeal the decision.
It is possible to work while your green card application is pending by applying for an Employment Authorization Document. An attorney can help you determine whether you’re eligible for employment authorization and assist you with applying for this document. They can also explain the terms and conditions that must be met to obtain an employment authorization, as well as how to remain in compliance and navigate any restrictions.
A green card lawyer can provide crucial legal guidance for your green card application, including ensuring you understand all requirements for your green card category, helping you understand the various steps of the application process, such as an interview, and making sure you correctly submit your application. They can also help you quickly and efficiently address any challenges that arise, such as handling appeals or responding to requests from USCIS.
Consular processing is a process that allows individuals who are outside the United States to apply for a green card. This process typically goes through a U.S. consulate or embassy in the applicant’s country of origin. An experienced green card lawyer can assist you with preparing and submitting your green card application through consular processing.
Understand and Pursue Your Green Card Options With an Experienced Immigration Lawyer
If you wish to obtain a green card but are overwhelmed by the various options and requirements, a skilled Queens green card lawyer can provide you with assistance. They can help you understand the requirements you must meet and how to smoothly navigate the process. Contact a compassionate and experienced PPID green card lawyer today to begin discussing your case details and planning.