A green card is a significant milestone in the journey of immigration. Green cards give foreign nationals legal status within the United States, allowing recipients to legally work and receive healthcare benefits without fear of deportation. They also offer a path to naturalized citizenship, which is the end goal of many who come to the U.S. looking to build a new life and home for themselves.
Our experienced Thousand Oaks green card lawyer of El Camino Inmigracion can help you with your green card application so you have a strong chance of being approved. We can also walk you through all parts of the legal process so you are never caught off guard and you don’t commit common mistakes. Reach out to schedule a free initial consultation and learn how we can make a difference as you pursue your American dream!
Types Of Green Cards
There are several categories of green cards available, depending on how and why you are coming to the U.S. For many–though not all–of these types of green cards, you will need a sponsor who resides in the country. Here is a quick rundown of the available green card categories:
- Green card through family: Available for those who have a family member who is a U.S. citizen or resident who is able to act as a sponsor.
- Green card through employment: Available to those who are employed in the U.S. or who have invested significantly in U.S. business.
- Green card as a special immigrant: Available for a variety of eligible immigrants, including religious workers and international broadcasters.
- Green cards for refugees or asylum seekers: To access this green card, you must have been granted asylum or refugee status for a year or more.
- Green cards for human trafficking and crime victims: These types of green cards are available for those who are current holders of T visas and U visas.
- Green cards for victims of abuse: You might be eligible for this type of green card if you are a VAWA self-petitioner, a special immigrant juvenile, an abused spouse or child of a Cuban native or citizen, or the abused spouse or child of someone with a HRIFA-based green card.
And more! There are other specific categories of green card, but these are some of the most common options for which you might be eligible.
Our Thousand Oaks Green Card Lawyer Can Make A Difference For You
When you work with our qualified legal counsel, you work with a team that has an extensive background in immigration law, which vastly improves your chances of having your green card application approved.
We also help you with aspects such as preparing for your immigration interview by prepping you on what to do and say, how to dress, and the types of questions that you will need to answer. Other steps, such as the mandatory biometric screening, will never catch you off guard.
If your application for a green card has already been denied, we can help you understand your options. You have 30 days to file an appeal, so contact us as soon as possible so we can get started on helping you file the correct paperwork with the Administrative Appeals Office (AAO) or the Board of Immigration Appeals.
El Camino Inmigracion Can Help You Apply For A Green Card
At El Camino Inmigración, we understand the importance of your immigration journey, and we give you an advantage when it comes to pursuing your path to residency. Reach out to us to schedule a free initial consultation, and we will guide you through the first important steps.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get a green card?
Unfortunately, there is not a precise way to determine how long it will take you to get a green card once you begin the application. The length of time depends on your specific circumstances, such as what type of green card you are pursuing and whether you are applying from within the U.S. On average, obtaining a green card can take anywhere from 90 days to 40 months.
Do I have to be physically present in the U.S. to apply for a green card?
No, you do not have to be inside the U.S. to apply for a green card! If you are living outside the U.S., your best bet is to apply through the U.S. Department of State consulate.
Can I earn a green card through military service?
If you are in the military, you can take advantage of immigration benefits, which can include a green card and expedited naturalized citizenship! You will also have the option to sponsor family members for their green cards.
