Suppose you are interested in America or want permanent residence there. Then having a green card is important because you will need a green card to live in America. The United States green card works like an identity card in a way. If you are applying for family sponsorship, employment, or any other work, having a green card can make your application successful. This guide will tell you how you can get a green card and what are the requirements for it.
What Is a Green Card?
When you go to live in the United States, you need a green card. Which is given to the locals there for their permanent residence, and to non-American people. And this is to get permission for them to work. There are no difficulties in reducing there with a green card. Those who consider themselves naturalized before applying for naturalization and are eligible for it, it is also used as a path to American citizenship for them. People who have a green card can also help their relatives with it. And they can get many more different types of jobs with it. This benefits them a lot.
General Requirements for a Green Card
1. Eligibility Criteria
Before submitting a green card application, you have to go through a variety of steps, one of which you must qualify for:
- Family-Based Green Card
- A U.S. citizen or a relative of yours who is a lawful permanent resident and you are sponsored by them.
- Employment-Based Green Card
- An American employer should offer it to you.
- Diversity Visa Lottery Program
- For applicants from nations with low U.S. Immigration costs.
- Refugee or Asylee Status
- This is for people who were granted asylum at least a year ago or who have been granted refugee status.
- Special Immigrants
- This includes religious types of people, such as Afghan/Iraqi interpreters and people related to them.
2. Documentation
A hit Green Card software requires particular files:
- To do this, you will have to provide your identity card or your valid passport.
- Your birth certificate.
- The letter that was given to you when you were offered the job.
- It is also mandatory to provide your vaccination record when undergoing a medical check-up.
- Proof of relationship (for own family-based total packages)
- If you are supporting someone financially, you must also provide proof of this. (Form I-864 Affidavit of Support)
3. Filing the Right Forms
- Form I-485
- If you want to register your permanent residence there or apply to adjust your status, they can help you through it.
- Form I-130
- If you want to get a green card for your entire family, this will support you.
- Form I-140
- It also supports your livelihood.
4. Medical Examination
A civil surgeon is hired to complete your medical checkup. He also makes sure that you meet the health requirements of the US citizenship and immigration services.
These are all the requirements for a green card in America.
Application Process: Step by Step
- Step 1: Determine Your Eligibility
- Make sure you meet all of your initial requirements and also assess why you are qualified.
- Step 2: File Your Petition
- The petition ought to be filed by means of a sponsor (e.g., member of the family or enterprise) until you’re self-petitioning underneath particular employment categories.
- Step 3: Wait for Visa Availability
- In many cases, you may have to wait until your visa number is issued. You should also check the Visa Bulletin that the US government publishes every month.
- Step 4: Submit Form I-485
- It makes permanent residents of those already in the United States and adjusts their way of living there. But this only happens if you apply for an immigrant visa through consular processing.
- Step 5: Attend the Biometrics Appointment
- To check your background, USCIS will submit your photo, your fingerprints, and your signature.
- Step 6: Go Through the Interview Process
- There are specific offices or embassies in the United States that you must attend for your green card interview. They will ask you questions about your application and background.
- Step 7: Receive Your Decision
- Once your application is approved, you will receive your green card in the mail. If your application for a green card is not approved, you can reapply for it.
Common Reasons for Denial
- Ineligibility under the selected category.
- Documents that are incorrect or missing.
- Security concerns or criminal records.
- You may fail to attend your scheduled speeches.
Costs and Processing Times
- Application Fees
- Your fees vary depending on the category of application you apply for. For example, Form I-485 costs $1,140, and the biometric fee is $85.
- Processing Times
- Depending on the category you choose or the availability of the visa, your green card process can take months to years.
Final Thoughts
Obtaining a green card is a transformative step toward building a future in the United States. By understanding and carefully following all of these requirements, you can greatly increase your chances of success. Be organized, prepared, and proactive throughout your application journey.
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