Green Cards / Permanent Residency

Los Angeles Green Card Lawyers

The Bolour/Carl Immigration Group has assisted foreign nationals to obtain permanent residency in the U.S. for over 25 years. Our green card lawyers have extensive experience in all types of permanent residency applications, whether it be marriage-based, family-based, employment-based, etc. We pride ourselves in finding solutions for our clients and look forward to assisting you in gaining permanent residency in the U.S.

Obtaining permanent residence enables you to live and work in the United States for the rest of your life as long as you do not abandon your residence or commit certain crimes which may render you deportable. Furthermore, after a certain number of years, you can apply to become a naturalized citizen of the U.S.

If you are looking for a green card lawyer in or around Los Angeles, please do not hesitate to contact a member of our team.

How to apply for a Green Card in the U.S.

The steps you must take to apply for a Green Card will vary depending on your individual situation. Some individuals who are present in the U.S. may adjust their status to permanent residency without having to leave the U.S. Give our Office a call if you are seeking to apply for permanent residency here in the U.S. – we are happy to answer your general questions to determine if you are eligible to apply for permanent residency.

What are the types of Green Cards?

In order to apply for a Green Card, you must be eligible under one of the categories listed below. Once you find the category that may fit your situation, our lawyers can help you determine your Green Card eligibility requirements, how to apply, and the processes for each.

• Family-based Green Cards
• Employment-based Green Cards
• Green Card as a Special Immigrant
• Green Card through Refugee or Asylee Status
• Green Card for Human Trafficking and Crime Victims
• Green Card for Victims of Abuse
• Green Card through Registry

Navigating The Green Card Application Process – A Step By Step Guide

When considering pursuing permanent residency in the United States, the experience of Los Angeles green card lawyers may be a necessary asset. The path to obtaining a green card can be a complex and sometimes daunting journey. Our firm of legal professionals understand the importance of making this process as straightforward as possible for our clients. As lawyers, we are here to provide you with a step-by-step guide to the green card application process, ensuring you have a clear understanding of what lies ahead.

Step 1: Determine Your Eligibility

Before you begin the green card application process, it’s crucial to assess your eligibility. There are various categories under which individuals can apply for a green card, including family-sponsored, employment-based, refugee or asylee status, and more. It’s essential to identify the category that best suits your situation.

Step 2: Choose The Appropriate Green Card Category

Once you have determined your eligibility, the next step is to choose the most suitable green card category for your circumstances. This decision will dictate the specific requirements and documents you’ll need to prepare during the application process.

Step 3: File The Immigrant Petition

In many cases, a sponsor must file an immigrant petition on your behalf. For family-sponsored green cards, this sponsor is typically a close relative who is a U.S. citizen or a permanent resident. In employment-based cases, your employer may be the sponsor. Ensure that all necessary documentation is submitted accurately and within the specified timeframe.

Step 4: Wait For Petition Approval

After submitting the immigrant petition, you will need to wait for USCIS (U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services) to review and approve it. Our Los Angeles green card lawyers will share that processing times can vary, so it’s essential to monitor your case’s status and stay in touch with your attorney.

Step 5: Apply For A Visa Number (If Applicable)

In some situations, applicants in specific green card categories must wait for a visa number to become available. The waiting period depends on factors such as your preference category and country of origin. During this time, it’s crucial to maintain your lawful status in the U.S.

Step 6: Prepare And Submit The Green Card Application

Once your petition is approved, you will need to complete and submit the green card application, Form I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status). This step includes gathering supporting documents, such as medical examinations, photographs, and financial records.

Step 7: Attend A Biometrics Appointment

After submitting your green card application, you will be scheduled for a biometrics appointment. During this appointment, your fingerprints and photographs will be taken for background checks and identification purposes.

Step 8: Attend An Interview (If Required)

Depending on your green card category and specific circumstances, you may be required to attend an interview with USCIS. Be prepared to answer questions about your background and eligibility during the interview.

Step 9: Wait For A Decision

Following the interview and the completion of any additional processing, USCIS will make a decision on your green card application. This decision will be sent to you in writing.

Step 10: Receive Your Green Card

If your green card application is approved, congratulations! You will receive your green card, which grants you permanent resident status in the United States.

Any missteps can lead to delays or denials, making the green card application process intricate and challenging to navigate. That’s why having experienced Los Angeles green card lawyers by your side is invaluable. Our team is dedicated to helping you achieve your immigration goals.

If you’re ready to embark on your journey to permanent residency, don’t hesitate to reach out to Bolour / Carl Immigration Group, APC. Our experienced attorneys are here to guide you through every step of the process, providing professional advice and support. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards securing your green card. Your American dream is within reach.

Green Card FAQs

Getting a green card is a big step, and your Los Angeles, CA green card lawyer can help you through the process. At Bolour / Carl Immigration Group, APC, we’ve been helping clients start new lives in the United States since 1996. Ever since then, we’ve provided legal support for green card applications, naturalization, and more. Now, it’s our turn to answer your questions. Read on to learn more, and contact us today to get started.

How Much Does A Green Card Cost?

The cost depends on how you’re applying. For most people filing from inside the U.S., the cost ranges from around $2,000 to $3,000. That includes the main application and the fee for biometrics. If you’re applying from outside the U.S., the process usually involves different fees through a U.S. consulate, and the total may be slightly different.

How Long Does It Take To Get A Green Card?

The wait time depends on several factors, including your category, country of origin, and whether you’re applying from inside or outside the U.S. Some people get approved in less than a year, while others may wait several years. There’s also the possibility of delays if additional evidence is requested or if the background checks take longer than expected.

What Is The Fastest Way To Get Green Card In Usa?

In most cases, the fastest path is through marriage to a U.S. citizen. If the marriage is valid and the couple lives together, the process often moves faster than other categories. Applicants can sometimes get a green card within a year, depending on how quickly everything is processed.

Other faster paths may include immediate relatives of U.S. citizens or people with certain job offers, especially if they qualify for special programs. While there’s no one-size-fits-all answer, we help clients figure out the route that makes the most sense for them based on their personal and work situations.

How Do I Renew A Green Card?

If your green card is expiring in the next six months or has already expired, you’ll need to file Form I-90 to request a renewal. While your status as a permanent resident doesn’t go away just because the card expires, an expired card can create issues when traveling, getting a job, or dealing with other official matters. Your Los Angeles green card lawyer can help you submit your renewal paperwork quickly.

How Do I Get A Green Card Through Marriage?

If you’re married to a U.S. citizen, you can apply for a marriage-based green card. You’ll need to prove that the marriage is real and not just for immigration purposes. That usually means submitting documents like joint leases, shared bank accounts, and photos together.

The process starts with your spouse filing a petition. After that, you’ll complete your part of the application. If you’re in the U.S., you may be able to file both at the same time. If you’re outside the U.S., you’ll go through consular processing.

Contact Us Today To Get Started

At Bolour / Carl Immigration Group, APC, we’ve helped people from all over the world apply for green cards through family, work, and other paths. If you’re not sure where to start, contact us today to get in touch with a Los Angeles green card lawyer from our team.