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

The process of obtaining a Family-Based Green Card in Pennsylvania can take between three and five years on average. The timeline for each individual case may vary depending on the immigration category, applicable laws, and other factors.

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

In order to obtain a family-based green card in Pennsylvania, you will need to submit Form I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status), Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative), Form I-864 (Affidavit of Support), evidence of a valid marriage or relationship, evidence of your sponsor’s U.S. citizenship or legal permanent resident status, two passport-style photographs, and documentary evidence of the qualifying relationship between you and your sponsor. You may also need to submit other supporting documents such as birth certificates, financial documents, and police clearance certificates.

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

Yes, Pennsylvania allows for dual citizenship with a Family-Based Green Card.

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

Yes, special procedures must be followed when applying for a family-based green card from Pennsylvania. The first step is to submit the Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, to either the USCIS Chicago Lockbox or the USCIS Phoenix Lockbox. The petitioner will then receive a receipt notice from USCIS that includes a case number. The petitioner will then have to submit a Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, if the application is approved. In addition, any required supporting documents should be submitted with the form. Further information about the process can be found on the USCIS website.

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

The filing fee for a Family-Based Green Card in Pennsylvania is $535. Included in this cost is a $325 filing fee for the I-130 form, and a $220 fee for biometrics services, which includes fingerprinting and a photograph.

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

Yes, it is possible to expedite the processing of a family-based green card in Pennsylvania. Expedited processing can be done through the Premium Processing Service, which guarantees a response within 15 calendar days. However, there is an additional fee associated with this service. Additionally, it is important to note that the Department of Homeland Security will only expedite cases in certain circumstances, such as humanitarian reasons or if there is a benefit to the government.

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

No. All states have the same requirements to obtain a family-based Green Card, as they are determined by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

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

You may stay in Pennsylvania indefinitely as long as you maintain a valid green card and do not violate any U.S. immigration laws.

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

Yes, you can use public benefits such as Medicaid and food stamps with a Family-Based Green Card in Pennsylvania. You must meet all eligibility requirements to receive the benefits, which include having valid immigration status and other factors.

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

Yes, it is possible to renew your Family-Based Green Card while in Pennsylvania. However, you will likely need to provide proof that you are eligible for the renewal, and may be required to attend an in-person interview with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

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

To become a U.S. citizen after receiving a Family-Based Green Card in Pennsylvania, the individual must have continuously resided in the United States for at least three years since receiving their green card, must be physically present in the U.S. for at least half of that three year period, must demonstrate good moral character, must show they are attached to the U.S. Constitution, must pass an English and civics test, and must demonstrate knowledge of U.S. history and government.

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

Yes, it is possible to travel outside of the U.S. with a Family-Based Green Card from Pennsylvania. However, you should be aware that if you stay abroad for more than six months, you may need to apply for a returning resident visa to enter the U.S.

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

Yes, Pennsylvania allows for the transfer of a Family-Based Green Card to another family member. However, there are certain requirements that must be met in order to do so.

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

A Family-Based Green Card in Pennsylvania allows its holders to pursue any form of employment, such as self-employment, full-time employment, or part-time employment. However, the holder must first obtain an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) from the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

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

No, there are no special rules for international students who have obtained a Family-Based Green Card in Pennsylvania. All foreigners must abide by the same laws and regulations as all other Pennsylvania residents, including paying taxes, obtaining a state driver’s license, and registering to vote (if they are eligible).

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

You can check the status of your Family-Based Green Card application on the USCIS website using your receipt number. You may also contact USCIS directly by calling 1-800-375-5283 or by visiting your local USCIS office.

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

Yes, there are restrictions on how much money you can make with a Family-Based Green Card in Pennsylvania. According to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), those who receive a green card through a family-based petition are subject to an annual minimum income requirement. This requirement states that the green card holder must make the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) or higher, adjusted for household size. For a family of four, the minimum income requirement in Pennsylvania is $28,824 in 2021. Additionally, in some cases, the sponsor may be required to provide financial support to the green card holder and submit an Affidavit of Support to demonstrate proof of financial stability.

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

Yes, Pennsylvania offers the Keystone Welcome Program, which provides assistance to individuals and families applying for a Family-Based Green Card. The program offers free legal advice and representation for those who qualify, including help with the application process, and also provides assistance with language access and navigation services to help applicants understand the complex immigration process.

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

With a family-based green card, you will have the right to live and work in the United States permanently, travel freely in and out of the United States, obtain social security and other government benefits, apply for citizenship after five years, bring family members to the United States, sponsor certain family members for green cards, and vote in local elections.

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

Yes, you can apply for citizenship after receiving a Family-Based Green Card from Pennsylvania. To become a U.S. citizen, you must first meet the requirements for naturalization and then submit an application for naturalization (Form N-400) to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). In most cases, you must have held a green card for at least five years before being eligible to apply for citizenship.