A green card is not just a ticket to reside and work permanently in the United States; it’s a pathway to American citizenship. If you’re wondering about the process, this blog post, crafted by our adept Portland green card attorneys, outlines the essential steps in obtaining this vital document.
Step #1: Determine Your Green Card Eligibility
Before delving into the green card application process, it’s crucial to ascertain your eligibility. Various paths exist, such as family ties, employment opportunities, refugee/asylum status, or special circumstances. Identifying the category you fall into is paramount. If uncertainty looms, seek guidance from an experienced Portland immigration attorney.
Step #2: Coordinate With Your Sponsor
In most cases, you need a sponsor to apply for a green card. Proactive coordination with your sponsor is essential. Family-based applications typically require a family member to complete Form I-130, the Petition for Alien Relative. For employment-based applications, your employer acts as the sponsor, completing Form I-140, the Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker.
Step #3: File Your Green Card Application with USCIS
Your sponsor’s paperwork differs from your green card application. Once eligibility is confirmed and your sponsor submits their petition, proceed to file your green card application. The primary document is Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status. Ensuring it’s properly completed with all necessary supporting documents is crucial, and a top-tier Portland, OR green card lawyer can assist.
Step #4: Attend the Biometrics Appointment and Interview
After submitting your application, USCIS will schedule a biometrics appointment involving fingerprinting, a photograph, and a signature for identity verification and background checks. Subsequently, an interview with a USCIS officer awaits, where questions about your application and background will be asked. Throughout this process, the guidance of a Portland green card attorney is invaluable.
Contact Our Portland, OR Green Card Lawyer for a Confidential Consultation
Vanderwall Immigration, with offices in Beaverton and Salem, houses a skilled and experienced Portland green card attorney. If questions about obtaining a green card linger, we’re here as a resource. Contact us today for a confidential, no-obligation initial appointment, handling green card issues in Portland and throughout the entire region.