What is the USCIS?

The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is the government agency that regulates immigration into the United States. The USCIS is the agency to which you will be submitting your application for your green card, work permits, travel permits, and citizenship.

What is a green card?

“Green card” is the unofficial term for proof of lawful permanent resident status in the United States, which gives the holder authorization to live and work anywhere in the country. With a few exceptions, green card holders can apply for citizenship after three or five years. Green cards must be renewed every ten years.

What is a lawful permanent resident?

A lawful permanent resident is anyone who has been issued a green card. Permanent residents are authorized to live and work anywhere in the United States and become eligible to apply for citizenship in five years or less. However, permanent residents may lose their status if he/she travels abroad for more than six months unless the travel falls under exceptions. Also, traveling to the U.S. every six month while living and working abroad may result in revocation of permanent resident status. 

What is a conditional permanent resident?

A conditional permanent resident is anyone who has been issued a conditional green card. Conditional green cards are generally issued by the USCIS to spouses who apply for a marriage-based green card or entrepreneurs who apply for an employment-based green card in order to verify that their marriage or business investment is genuine, and not simply for the sake of receiving a green card. 

Can I work in the U.S. while waiting for my green card?

Generally, with some exceptions, most green card applicants are required to maintain their nonimmigrant status while the green card application process is pending and until it is approved. Reach out to us to find out how you can obtain a work authorization.

What is the Visa Bulletin?

The Visa Bulletin is a monthly record issued by the U.S. Department of State that lists which visa categories applications can be filed and processed. The bulletin is updated monthly because only a certain number of green card applications are eligible to apply for, which means that it may not be possible to apply for a green card in a certain category after a certain point in the year. Reach out to us to find out if your visa category is still receiving applications.

What is a biometrics appointment?

A biometric screening involves recording your fingerprints, taking your photo, and taking your signature in order to do a background check of government records for criminal history or any prior violations. Biometric appointments usually should not take too much time. 

Why would a green card application be denied?

There are many reasons why a green card application may be denied—having an experienced lawyer guide you through the process is key to maximizing the chances of your application being accepted.