What Is A Green Card

Many immigrants seek entry to the United States to experience a better life. They may also choose to stay permanently by getting a Green Card. However, filing for a permanent resident card may prove to be complex. Here’s what you need to learn about Green Cards and how to get one to permanently stay in the United States.

What You Need To Know About Green Cards

A Green Card, also known as a permanent resident card, is a document the United States government issues. It is for immigrants who have been granted the right to live and work in the country permanently. It is named that way because it used to be green in color, although it now has a more muted shade.

How To Obtain A Green Card

Obtaining a Green Card can be complex and involve several steps, depending on an individual’s circumstances. Generally, there are two main ways to get one. It is either through a family member already a U.S. citizen or permanent resident or through employment.

Through A Family Member

If you are seeking a Green Card through a family member, you must first have a sponsor who is a U.S. citizen or permanent resident. They must be willing to petition for you. The sponsor must fill out a petition on your behalf and submit it to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). If the petition is approved, you must go through an interview to determine if you are eligible for a Green Card.

Through Employment

If you seek permanent residency through employment, you need an employer to sponsor you. They must fill out a petition on your behalf and submit it to the USCIS. Once approved, you can go through an interview process to determine if you are eligible for a Green Card.

Other Ways To Get A Permanent Resident Card

There are also several other ways to get a Green Card, such as the Diversity Visa Lottery. It opens a certain number of slots available each year to individuals from countries with low rates of immigration to the United States. There are also Green Cards available for individuals who have been victims of certain crimes or who have suffered persecution in their home countries.

What Happens After Getting Your Green Card

Once you have been granted a permanent resident card, you will be able to live and work in the United States permanently. You can also travel outside the country and return, as long as you do not remain outside the United States for more than a certain period.

However, a Green Card does not give you the same rights as a U.S. citizen. For example, you cannot vote in U.S. elections or hold certain government jobs. To become a U.S. citizen, you must go through a separate process known as naturalization.

Seek Help From A Green Card Attorney

An immigrant wanting to reside in the United States permanently must deal with immigration laws. With the help of a seasoned Green Card attorney, you can get through the process easier. Lincoln-Goldfinch Law and its team of immigration lawyers can aid you in your journey to legally stay in the country. The lawyers at the firm have experience in dealing with Green Card proceedings. With their help, you can have better chances at a favorable result.

Summary

Obtaining a Green Card can be a long and complex process, but it is a dream come true for many people. It allows you to live and work in the United States permanently. You can get it through family sponsorship or employment, among others. To increase your chances of obtaining one, it’s best to consult with a Green Card attorney.