Everything You Need To Know About The Green Card Program
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To become a citizen of the U.S., you must get a green card. Here is everything you need to know about forms, supporting documents, the green card timeline, and how the process works if you want to apply for citizenship, or even if you just want a green card without eventual citizenship.
The Green Card: What Is It?
Green cards identify individuals as citizens of the United States who are lawful permanent residents. A green card allows a person to live and work in the United States without any restrictions, which is much more liberating than a visa. While green card holders have some rights and responsibilities, they do not have the same rights and obligations as citizens (naturalized or birthright).
In case you are interested in the Green Card program, you can explore this website. USGreenCardOffice.com has outstanding reviews for their assistance services.
Green Cards: Quick Facts
Their nickname comes from the colour they’re printed in – green – which is why they’re technically known as Lawful Permanent Resident Cards. On paper, these cards are called Form I-551, and are official government documents.
The following information is also important:
- Conditional green cards are possible. You will be eligible for your green card after two years only if you are married to a U.S. citizen. You have 90 days after your green card expires to apply to Immigration and Citizenship Services to remove the conditions on your document. Failure to do so will result in the condition not being removed – and you will lose your permanent residency status.
- Those under the age of 18 and physically disabled do not have to sign their green cards. If either of these conditions applies to you, your green card will say “Signature Waived.” in place of the signature.
- 10 years are the expiration date for green cards. Renewal of your card could have serious consequences if you do not do it.
Green Cards are Automatically Granted to Families?
Green cards do not automatically go to children and their families. A green card can also be obtained by unmarried children under 21 years of age, or adopted kids, stepchildren, and spouses (if applicable). The only way married children can obtain a green card is if they’re related to an American citizen, so a green card holder with married children will have to apply for citizenship before they can apply for lawful permanent residence.
The Process of Applying for a Green Card
Depending on an individual’s situation, the process for applying for a green card can vary. Generally, however, these steps must be followed:
- The government must be petitioned for lawful permanent resident status by submitting a form to USCIS.
- Your fingerprints and photo will be taken during a biometrics appointment, and you will also provide a digital signature to USCIS.
- A visa interview is scheduled for you.
- Your petition is decided by USCIS.
What Is The Waiting Time For A USCIS Decision?
Processing your green card application and receiving a decision can take a considerable amount of time. The time it takes to get a decision can range from seven months to nearly three years. Processes for some green cards, such as family preference, can take upwards of ten years.
Does your Green Card application have a status tracker?
If you have your receipt number, you can track the status of your green card application here. In addition, if you are working with an attorney, they can keep track of things as well.
What Happens if You Are Not Granted a Green Card?
Your application for a green card is subject to rejection by the U.S. government, and you will be removed.
The first thing you need to do if this occurs to you is to contact an attorney right away.
How Does the Green Card Application Process Work?
You will receive a welcome note from the government if your application is approved. Upon receiving your green card, you’ll receive it in the mail shortly thereafter.
