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Our Washington DC green card lawyers possess the knowledge and experience necessary to help you get your United States green card. In The United States, “Green Card” is often used as an informal term for lawful permanent residency. As green card lawyers in Washington DC, we understand that attaining a green card can be challenging. Many people around the globe wish to gain entry into the US and therefore our government has become quite selective about whom it grants legal permanent residency. Becoming a legal permanent resident of The United States involves a three-step application process, throughout which green card lawyers in DC may assist you:
Immigrant Petition
To begin the immigration process, first know if you are eligible to be given lawful permanent residency. There are two main ways in which aliens may be granted permanent residency:
- Family: certain types of family members or immediate relatives of citizens or green card holders may be approved to apply by the United States Citizen and Immigration Services (USCIS).
- Business/Work Purposes: Permanent employment offers, investment/entrepreneurial interests, or other special job types may deem aliens eligible for legal permanent residency in the US.
Immigrant Visa Availability
The Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) sets a quota on the number of immigrants allowed residency each year. This means that, unless the applicant is an immediate relative of an American citizen, there may be a waiting period after the petition has been approved. The process may only continue once a visa number is available. There is no quota pertaining to immediate relatives under the age of 21.
Immigrant Visa Adjudication
After a visa number has become available, you will need to apply according to your current location. If you already reside in the United States, the next step will be to apply directly with USCIS to adjust your current status to permanent resident (Adjustment of Status). If you are outside of the country, apply at the nearest US consulate or embassy (Consular Processing).
There are many laws, regulations and specific steps to take regarding your green card application process. You would find it very helpful to hire a Washington DC green card lawyer with expertise in this area to guide you along the process. It can be a very stressful process, and we can help to decrease the amount of time and effort you will have to put into gaining permanent residency in the United States. There is no need to wait. If you are eligible to apply, begin your journey to becoming a legal permanent resident by contacting our green card lawyers in DC today.
