1. How do I apply for a Green Card?

To apply for a Green Card, you must first determine which type of immigrant visa is appropriate for you. You can find out eligibility criteria and apply for the appropriate visa through the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services website. Once your visa has been approved, you will need to pay all applicable fees and submit required documents, including your passport, birth certificate, and proof of financial support. After completing the application process, you will be scheduled for an interview with a U.S. consulate or embassy. If your application is approved, you will receive a Green Card in the mail.

2. What documents do I need to submit to apply for a Green Card?

In order to apply for a Green Card, you will need to submit a variety of documents, including:
– Proof of identity, such as a passport, birth certificate, or national identity document.
– Proof of nationality and/or residence, such as a certificate of naturalization or a visa.
– Proof of employment, such as a recent W-2 form.
– An affidavit affirming the facts of your immigration status.
– Evidence of financial support, such as pay stubs or tax returns.
– A medical examination certificate.
– A police clearance certificate from any countries you have lived in for the past five years.
– Two passport-style photos taken within the last 30 days.

3. How long does the processing time take for a Green Card application?

The processing time for a Green Card application can vary depending on the type of application and the individual’s circumstances. Generally, the entire process can take anywhere from 6 to 11 months.

4. What is the difference between a Green Card and a Permanent Resident visa?

A Green Card is a document that proves a person is a lawful permanent resident of the United States. A Permanent Resident visa is an official document issued by the U.S. government that allows a foreign citizen to enter the United States as a lawful permanent resident. The visa serves as evidence that the foreign citizen has been granted immigration benefits, including the right to live and work permanently in the United States.

5. How can I check the status of my Green Card application?

You can check the status of your Green Card application by submitting an online inquiry form at the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website. You will need to provide your name, receipt number, and date of birth when submitting the inquiry. Additionally, you can call the USCIS National Customer Service Center at 1-800-375-5283.

6. How much does it cost to apply for a Green Card?

The cost to apply for a Green Card varies depending on the type of application you are submitting. For example, the fee for Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, is $1,140 (in 2021). Additionally, you may need to pay an $85 biometrics fee and an $85 application for a travel document fee.

7. What are the eligibility requirements for a Green Card application?

To be eligible to apply for a Green Card, an individual must meet one of several criteria. Generally, applicants must be sponsored by a family member who is a US citizen or lawful permanent resident, have an employer who is willing to sponsor them, be eligible for refugee or asylum status, or have been granted the visa lottery. In certain cases, applicants may qualify through other special categories such as VAWA self-petitioners, victims of human trafficking, and Iraqi and Afghan special immigrants.

8. What are the different types of Green Cards available?

There are several different types of Green Cards available:

1. Permanent Resident Card (commonly known as a Green Card): This type of card grants permanent residency in the United States and allows the holder to live and work in the U.S. indefinitely.

2. Employment Authorization Document (EAD): This type of card is issued to people who have been granted permission to work in the U.S. on a temporary basis.

3. Refugee Travel Document (I-571): This type of card is issued to people who are refugees in the U.S. and it allows them to travel abroad and return to the United States.

4. Re-entry Permit (I-327): This type of card is issued to permanent residents who have been outside the United States for an extended period of time and want to return without risk of losing their status.

5. Conditional Residence Card (I-551C): This type of card is issued to individuals who have been married to a U.S. citizen or permanent resident for less than two years, and it allows them to remain in the U.S. with their spouse for two years before applying for permanent residency status.

9. How can I renew or replace my Green Card?

You can renew or replace your Green Card by filing Form I-90 with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). You will need to pay the appropriate filing fee and provide photocopies of any supporting documents as required. USCIS will review your application and make a decision.

10. Can I travel outside the US while my Green Card application is pending?

Yes, you can travel outside the US while your Green Card application is pending. However, you must have either a valid immigrant visa or a valid advance parole document.

11. How can I submit additional evidence or documents for my Green Card application?

You can submit additional evidence or documents for your Green Card application by mailing them to the address of the USCIS office that is processing your application. It is important to include your full name and Alien Registration Number (A-Number) on all documents you submit.

12. How do I report changes of address or other demographic information?

You should contact your local county election office to report changes of address or other demographic information. You can find the contact information for your local county election office by visiting your state or territory’s elections website.

13. What is the difference between Adjustment of Status and Consular Processing?

Adjustment of Status (AOS) is the process of applying for a green card from inside the United States. An individual must be eligible to use AOS and have an available immigrant visa to apply. The process is completed with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

Consular Processing (CP) is the process of applying for a green card from outside the United States. An individual must be eligible to use CP and have an available immigrant visa to apply. The process is completed at a U.S. Department of State embassy or consulate overseas.

14. What is an immigrant visa number and how do I get one?

An Immigrant Visa Number is the number assigned to a foreign national who is approved for an immigrant visa. It is issued by the U.S. Department of State and is necessary for the foreign national to enter the United States and obtain permanent residence. Immigrant Visa Numbers can be obtained through the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) or by submitting a completed visa application at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate abroad.

15. Will my family members be able to accompany me when I receive my green card?

No, family members are not able to accompany you when you receive your green card.

16. Is there any way to expedite the processing of my Green Card application?

Unfortunately, no. The processing time for all green card applications is determined by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services and cannot be expedited or rushed.

17. What is the best way to contact USCIS Customer Service for Green Card inquiries?

The best way to contact USCIS Customer Service for Green Card inquiries is by telephone. The USCIS Contact Center telephone number is 1-800-375-5283. The Contact Center is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET. You can also submit an online inquiry with USCIS through their website at www.uscis.gov/contactcenter.

18. What are the next steps after submitting my Green Card application?

After submitting your Green Card application, USCIS will review and process your application. They will then mail you a receipt notice and assign a case number to your application. You may then be asked to attend an interview with an immigration officer at the USCIS office, or you may be asked to submit additional documents or evidence. Once you have done all of these things, the immigration officer will make a decision on your application.

19. Can I work in the US before receiving my Green Card?

Yes, you can work in the US before receiving your Green Card, but you must have the proper visa and authorization. Most commonly this is a work visa, such as an H-1B, that allows you to legally work in the US while you wait for your Green Card.

20. Is there any way to appeal a decision on my Green Card application?

Yes, you may appeal a decision on your Green Card application. Depending on the type of decision you are appealing, you may have to file a motion to reconsider or motion to reopen with the USCIS office that made the original decision, or you may have to file an appeal with the Board of Immigration Appeals.