Family-Based Green Cards in North Carolina

1. How long does the process of obtaining a Family-Based Green Card take in North Carolina?

The exact timeline for obtaining a Family-Based Green Card in North Carolina will vary depending on the family member’s country of origin, their relationship to the person applying for a green card, and other factors. Generally, the process can take anywhere from several months to several years.

2. What documents do I need to submit in order to obtain a Family-Based Green Card in North Carolina?

In order to obtain a Family-Based Green Card in North Carolina, you will need to submit several immigration documents which include Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative), Form I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status), two passport-style photographs, and evidence of your relationship to the relative filing the petition for you. You may also need to provide documents such as birth certificates, marriage certificates, and other proof of family relationships. Additionally, certain individuals may be required to submit additional forms and documents such as police clearances, medical examinations, and other evidence of eligibility.

3. Does North Carolina allow for dual citizenship with a Family-Based Green Card?

Yes, North Carolina allows for dual citizenship with a Family-Based Green Card. However, it is important to note that having dual citizenship may have a range of implications, such as taxation or military service, depending on the country of origin. It is important to check with an immigration lawyer to make sure that all laws and regulations are being respected.

4. Are there any special procedures I need to follow if I want to apply for a Family-Based Green Card from North Carolina?

Yes. To apply for a Family-Based Green Card from North Carolina, you must first file Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative) with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). After USCIS approves the I-130 petition, you must either file Form I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status) or make an appointment at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate to attend an immigrant visa interview. During the interview, you will be required to submit additional documents and answer questions to establish your eligibility for a green card.

5. What is the filing fee for a Family-Based Green Card in North Carolina?

The filing fee for a Family-Based Green Card in North Carolina is $725. This fee is for the Form I-485 Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status. In addition, there is an $85 biometric services fee for each applicant age 14 or older.

6. Is it possible to expedite the processing of a Family-Based Green Card in North Carolina?

Yes, it is possible to expedite the processing of a Family-Based Green Card in North Carolina. You can do this by submitting an expedited request with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Your request may be granted if you meet certain criteria, such as having a medical or humanitarian emergency, being a member of the U.S. military, or experiencing extreme financial hardship.

7. Does North Carolina have different requirements to obtain a Family-Based Green Card than other states?

No, the requirements for obtaining a family-based green card are the same in all states. All applicants must meet the basic eligibility criteria, including having a qualifying family relationship and meeting other immigration requirements.

8. Are there any restrictions on how long I can stay in North Carolina with a Family-Based Green Card?

The length of time you can stay in North Carolina with a family-based green card depends on the type of green card you have. For immediate relatives of US citizens, an immigrant visa holder can live in North Carolina indefinitely as long as they continue to meet the requirements to keep their green card. Other types of family-based green cards have a validity period of two years for conditional residency and 10 years for permanent residency. After that, the green card holder must either apply for a renewal or apply for citizenship.

9. Can I use public benefits such as Medicaid or food stamps with a Family-Based Green Card in North Carolina?

Yes, you can use public benefits such as Medicaid and food stamps with a Family-Based Green Card in North Carolina. However, you must meet the eligibility criteria for these programs.

10. Is it possible to renew my Family-Based Green Card while in North Carolina?

Yes, it is possible to renew your family-based Green Card while in North Carolina. The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has a variety of options available to those who wish to renew their family-based Green Card, including the option to file an I-90 form online or by mail. For more information and instructions regarding the process of renewing your Green Card, please visit the USCIS website.

11. What are the requirements for becoming a U.S. citizen after receiving a Family-Based Green Card in North Carolina?

In order to become a U.S. citizen after receiving a Family-Based Green Card in North Carolina, applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements. These requirements include being 18 years of age or older, having been a permanent resident for at least 5 years, having been physically present in the United States for at least 30 months out of the last 5 years, having no significant criminal record, being able to pass an English and civics test and showing good moral character. Applicants must also complete and submit the N-400 form with the appropriate application fee.

12. Is it possible to travel outside of the U.S. with a Family-Based Green Card from North Carolina?

Yes, it is possible to travel outside of the U.S. with a Family-Based Green Card from North Carolina. However, you should always check the entry requirements for the countries you plan to visit before departing.

13. Does North Carolina allow for the transfer of a Family-Based Green Card to another family member?

Yes, North Carolina does allow for the transfer of a family-based green card to another family member. This is done through a process called “adjustment of status.” The process involves filing an I-485 application with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The applicant must prove that they meet all of the requirements for adjustment of status, such as having a qualifying family relationship and being able to demonstrate that they will not become a public charge.

14. What types of employment are allowed with a Family-Based Green Card in North Carolina?

With a Family-Based Green Card in North Carolina, you are allowed to work in any kind of employment, including full or part-time jobs, self-employment, seasonal employment, and certain types of internships or volunteer work.

15. Are there any special rules for international students who have obtained a Family-Based Green Card in North Carolina?

Yes. International students who have obtained a Family-Based Green Card in North Carolina are subject to the same state and federal laws as all other permanent residents. They are also eligible for state benefits, including in-state tuition, access to state universities and community colleges, and the ability to apply for federal student loans. Additionally, North Carolina has special rules for international students that allow them to apply for a driver’s license, register vehicles, and obtain a state identification card.

It is important to note that even with a Family-Based Green Card, international students will still need to comply with federal immigration laws and will need to apply for a separate visa if they wish to travel outside of the U.S. or study abroad.

16. How can I check the status of my Family-Based Green Card application in North Carolina?

You can check the status of your Family-Based Green Card application in North Carolina by scheduling an InfoPass appointment with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and calling the USCIS National Customer Service Center at 1-800-375-5283. You can also check the status of your application online at the USCIS website.

17. Are there any restrictions on how much money I can make with a Family-Based Green Card in North Carolina?

No, there are no restrictions on how much money you can make with a Family-Based Green Card in North Carolina. As long as you meet the eligibility requirements and can prove that you can support yourself financially, there should be no issues with obtaining your Green Card.

18. Does North Carolina offer any special assistance or services for those applying for a Family-Based Green Card?

Yes, North Carolina does offer special assistance and services for those applying for a Family-Based Green Card. The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services provides several resources to assist applicants. This includes information on eligibility, forms, and the process of applying. Additionally, the state offers a variety of services to help immigrants and their families transition into life in the United States, including language assistance, job placement, and educational resources.

19. What rights and privileges do I have with a Family-Based Green Card from North Carolina?

As a holder of a family-based green card from North Carolina, you are eligible to live, work, and study in the United States. You may also bring family members to the United States. Additionally, you are eligible to apply for U.S. citizenship after five years of continuous residence if certain qualifications are met.

20. Can I apply for citizenship after receiving a Family-Based Green Card from North Carolina?

Yes, you can apply for citizenship after receiving a family-based green card from North Carolina. Once you have held a green card for at least 5 years (or 3 years if you are married to a US citizen) you can apply for naturalization and become a citizen.