Green Card Application Process in Washington D.C.

1. What is the standard timeline to obtain a Green Card in Washington D.C.?

The timeline to obtain a Green Card in Washington D.C. depends on a variety of factors such as the type of green card you are applying for, your priority date, and the current processing times. Generally, applying for a Green Card from within the U.S. can take anywhere between 6 to 12 months. It is important to note that the timeline can vary depending on the specific circumstances of the applicant. Additionally, if you are applying as an immediate relative of a U.S. citizen, the process is often much faster.

2. How do I find out if I am eligible to apply for a Green Card in Washington D.C.?

In order to determine whether you are eligible to apply for a Green Card in Washington D.C., you should consult with an experienced immigration attorney who can review your circumstances and advise you on your eligibility. You can also review the eligibility requirements for permanent residence on the US Citizenship and Immigration Services website.

3. What specific documents do I need to provide to apply for a Green Card in Washington D.C.?

In order to apply for a Green Card in Washington D.C., you will need to provide your passport, application for permanent residence (Form I-485), birth certificate, marriage certificate (if applicable), financial documents, medical examination form, and any supporting documents. You may also need to provide additional documents depending on the specific circumstances of your case.

4. What is the cost of filing a Green Card application in Washington D.C.?

The cost for filing a Green Card application in Washington DC depends on the category of application and the age of the applicant. For adults, the fee to file a Form I-485 Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status is $1,140. For children under 14 years of age, the fee is $750. For a Green Card under the Refugee/Asylee category, the fee is $985.

5. How do I schedule an appointment with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) office in Washington D.C.?

You can schedule an appointment with the USCIS office in Washington D.C. by calling 1-800-375-5283 and speaking with an operator or by visiting the USCIS website at https://www.uscis.gov/ and finding the office’s contact information. You can also submit an online inquiry about scheduling an appointment through the USCIS Contact Center website at https://egov.uscis.gov/e-request/.

6. What are the steps to complete a Green Card Application in Washington D.C.?

The steps to complete a Green Card application in Washington D.C. vary depending on the type of green card that is being applied for. The general steps for applying for any green card in Washington D.C. are as follows:

1. Determine which type of green card you are eligible for and gather the necessary documents and paperwork that are required for the application process.

2. Complete and submit the appropriate USCIS form or application package for the green card category you are applying under.

3. Submit the completed application package, along with all supporting documents and evidence to USCIS.

4. Once your application package has been received and reviewed, USCIS will make a decision regarding your eligibility and will either approve or deny your application.

5. If your application is approved, you will receive a notice detailing the next steps in the process, which usually involve attending an interview with a USCIS officer and submitting biometric information (fingerprints) for background checks.

6. If your application is approved after the interview and all necessary background checks have been completed, you will be granted a green card and will become a lawful permanent resident of the United States.

7. How can I check the status of my Green Card application in Washington D.C.?

You can check the status of your Green Card application by creating an online account with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) or by calling their customer service line at 1-800-375-5283. You will need to provide your receipt number to check the status of your application.

8. How long does it take for a Green Card application to be processed in Washington D.C.?

The processing time for a Green Card application in Washington D.C. varies depending on the type of application and the individual’s eligibility. Generally, applications can take anywhere from six to ten months to process.

9. What are the different categories of Green Card eligibility in Washington D.C.?

The different categories of Green Card eligibility in Washington D.C. are:

1. Family-Based Green Card: including immediate relatives (spouses, parents, and unmarried children under 21 years of age) of U.S. citizens and certain categories of family members of legal permanent residents.

2. Employment-Based Green Card: including priority workers, professionals with advanced degrees, skilled workers, and investors/entrepreneurs.

3. Refugee or Asylee Status: for those who have fled their home country due to persecution or fear of persecution on account of race, religion, nationality, membership in a particular social group or political opinion.

4. Special Immigrant Juvenile Status: for certain children who have been abused, neglected or abandoned by one or both parents and cannot be reunited with either parent due to abuse, neglect or abandonment.

5. Victims of Human Trafficking and Certain Crimes: for victims of human trafficking and certain crimes who have suffered mental or physical abuse and are willing to assist law enforcement officials in the investigation or prosecution of the crime.

10. What are the requirements for a Green Card interview in Washington D.C.?

The requirements for a Green Card interview depend on the type of application you are filing. Generally, you will need to bring all relevant documents related to your application, including your passport, a valid form of ID, your Form I-485, evidence of your eligibility for the visa, and any other relevant documents. You may also need to bring any documents requested by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) in the invitation letter for your interview. Additionally, you may be asked to bring original documents that you submitted with your application, such as marriage certificates, birth certificates, or divorce decrees.

11. Can I apply for a Green Card if I am not currently living in Washington D.C.?

Yes, you can apply for a Green Card from anywhere in the world. The USCIS does not require you to be physically present in Washington D.C. in order to apply for a Green Card. You will need to follow the instructions on the USCIS website and submit all required documents and forms for the specific type of Green Card you are applying for.

12. Is it possible to renew my Green Card in Washington D.C.?

Yes, it is possible to renew your Green Card in Washington D.C. You must submit Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card, to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) along with the applicable fee. You should submit your application at the USCIS field office in Washington D.C.

13. What are the benefits of having a Green Card in Washington D.C.?

The benefits of having a Green Card in Washington D.C. include the following:

1. The right to work legally in the United States;
2. The ability to apply for lawful permanent residence (a green card) if eligible;
3. Eligibility to apply for a social security number;
4. The ability to apply for a driver’s license or state identification card;
5. Eligibility to register for classes and apply for financial aid at universities and colleges in Washington D.C.;
6. Eligibility to receive certain public benefits such as health care and food assistance;
7. Ability to travel with advance parole;
8. Eligibility to apply for U.S. Citizenship after certain period of time;
9. Ability to reunite with family members who are already in the U.S.; and
10. Access to protection from deportation if one meets certain criteria.

14. Are there any restrictions on travelling while my Green Card application is being processed in Washington D.C.?

Yes. If you have an application for a Green Card pending, you must obtain permission from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) before travelling outside the United States. This is known as advance parole. You can apply for advance parole by filing Form I-131, Application for Travel Document. You must also submit evidence to support your need to travel and your ability to return to the United States after the travel is complete. Failure to get advance parole before leaving the United States can result in the abandonment of your Green Card application and may affect your ability to return to the United States.

15. What are the consequences of overstaying a Green Card in Washington D.C.?

The consequences of overstaying a Green Card in Washington D.C. can include losing eligibility for permanent residency or citizenship, being detained and deported by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), and/or being barred from entering the US for a period of time. Additionally, there may be civil and/or criminal penalties associated with the violation, depending on the individual’s circumstances.

16. Can I have multiple Green Cards from different states, including Washington D.C.?

No. A Green Card is issued by the U.S. government and is only valid for one state. Therefore, it is not possible to have multiple Green Cards from different states, including Washington D.C.

17. How can I change my address on my Green Card application in Washington D.C.?

In order to update your address on your Green Card application in Washington, D.C., you must file Form AR-11, Change of Address with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). You can either submit the form online or mail it to the USCIS Dallas Lockbox facility.

18. Are there any fees associated with applying for a Green Card in Washington D.C.?

Yes, there are a variety of fees associated with applying for a Green Card in Washington, D.C. These fees can include the USCIS filing fee, biometrics fee, and any attorney or legal representation fees.

19. Is there any assistance available for completing a Green Card application in Washington D.C.?

Yes, you can contact the local chapter of the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) for assistance in completing a Green Card application in Washington D.C. The local chapter is located at 1620 I Street NW, Suite 350, Washington, DC 20006. The phone number is (202) 216-2400.

20. Are there any special requirements for applicants over 65 years old applying for a Green Card in Washington D.C.?

No, there are no special requirements for applicants over 65 years old applying for a Green Card in Washington D.C. All applicants must meet the same eligibility requirements regardless of age.