Am I Eligible for a Green Card?

Immigration has become a hot button topic in the United States over the last few years, especially in states that border Mexico. According to 2017 data from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Mexico has the highest percentage of immigrants to the U.S., followed by China, Cuba, and India. When discussing legal and illegal immigration, various terms are used by the news media, yet very few sources explain the differences between the types of immigration documents that exist or how individuals can obtain them. A Green Card is one of the most popular terms used. This form of identification indicates that the holder of the card is allowed to live and work in the United States permanently. In other words, this card grants immigrants permanent resident status.

Who Is Eligible For a Green Card?

A variety of scenarios allow immigrants to obtain a Green Card. The most common forms of eligibility are family and employment connections. Those who have U.S. citizen family members or who work in the United States are typically eligible for permanent residency. There are also situations in which those seeking safety can apply for a Green Card. These include individuals with refugee or asylee status, human trafficking and crime victims, and victims of abuse. A category known as “special immigrants” refers to individuals such as religious workers or international broadcasters. Another group who can register for a Green Card are those people who have resided continuously in the United States since before Jan. 1, 1972.

What Does the Process Look Like?

Obtaining a Green Card can be a lengthy process, as many legal procedures are. Determining your eligibility is the first step in the immigration process. People who are already in the United States may request to “change their status” to a permanent resident, whereas those outside the United States must go through consular processing. This is an involved process that includes submitting a petition and obtaining a visa. Anyone obtaining their Green Card from employment, family, or as a special immigrant may need to have another party submit the petition for them.

A limited number of visas are available, depending on the category. There must be a visa allocated to someone before he or she can apply for a Green Card. The U.S. Department of State is the agency that allocates visas and determines how many visas will be distributed. Applicants will also be required to have a medical examination and an affidavit of support. This is similar to a letter of recommendation. Financial records may also be requested to prove that applicants will not be a “public charge.” In other words, those applying cannot rely solely on the U.S. government’s financial support.

Contact a Houston, TX Green Card Lawyer

As you can see, those who wish to live permanently in the United States must meet many requirements before and during the Green Card application process. It can seem overwhelming, especially for those who have never been involved in legal proceedings. At The Foray Firm, we understand how important the immigration process is to applicants, and we will work hard to help you become a lawful permanent resident or U.S. citizen. Our firm speaks English and Spanish in order to help as many individuals as possible. If you or a loved one are considering applying for a Green Card, contact our experienced Fort Bend County immigration attorneys at 832-919-6400 for assistance.

Sources:

https://www.uscis.gov/greencard/eligibility-categories

https://www.green-card.com/what-is-a-green-card/ 

https://www.dhs.gov/sites/default/files/publications/Lawful_Permanent_Residents_2017.pdf