Know All About US Green Card : Complete Details

The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) issues a green card, also known as a permanent resident card, which enables an individual to live and work permanently in the country. It serves as proof of the holder’s legal status as a citizen and a permanent resident of the country. Some ways to get a green card are through the diversity visa lottery, family sponsorship, employer sponsorship, or as an asylum seeker or refugee.

Benefits of a US Green Card

Holding a green card in the United States provides several benefits, including:

Right to live and work permanently: Anyone who has been granted permanent residency in the United States is entitled to all the rights and privileges of citizenship. They can also travel freely in and out of the country, although for extended periods outside the U.S., their green card may be subject to revocation.
Eligibility for U.S. citizenship: After holding a green card for at least five years (or three years if obtained through marriage to a U.S. citizen), a green card holder may be eligible to apply for U.S. citizenship, provided they meet other eligibility requirements such as passing a civics test and an English language proficiency test.
Ability to sponsor family members: Green card holders can support certain family members, including their spouse and unmarried children, for permanent residency in the United States.
Protection from deportation: A person with a green card can’t be taken out of the United States or deported unless they break immigration laws or commit crimes that make them ineligible for permanent residency.
Access to government benefits: People with green cards may be able to get help from the government, such as Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid, public education, and college aid.
Right to own property: Green card holders have the right to own property in the United States, just like U.S. citizens.
Equal treatment under the law: Green card holders are entitled to equal treatment and have the right to due process. They can also go to court if their rights are violated, and they can’t be mistreated because of their immigration status.
Access to better job opportunities: With a green card, an individual can take advantage of only those available to those with permanent residency status. This can open up new career paths and improve job security.
Access to education: Green card holders can apply for in-state tuition rates at public colleges and universities, which can significantly reduce the cost of higher education.
Ability to get a U.S. passport: Once a person with a green card becomes a U.S. citizen, they can get a U.S. passport, which gives them more freedom and flexibility when traveling abroad.
Access to voting rights: While green card holders cannot vote in federal elections, they may be able to vote in local and state elections, depending on the state laws.
Ability to petition for certain relatives: As a green card holder, you may also be able to petition for certain relatives, such as parents, siblings, and adult children, to come and live with you in the United States.
Social Security Benefits: Green card holders who have worked in the United States and have paid into the Social Security system may be eligible for Social Security benefits when they reach retirement age.
Access to healthcare: Green card holders may be eligible for government-funded healthcare programs, such as Medicare and Medicaid, which can provide access to affordable healthcare services.
Protection from discrimination: Green card holders are protected from discrimination based on their race, national origin, religion, gender, and other factors, such as employment, housing, and access to public services.
Right to petition for divorce: Green card holders have the right to petition for divorce in the United States, just like U.S. citizens.
Right to join specific organizations: Green card holders may be able to enter particular organizations and clubs, such as labour unions and professional associations, which can provide additional benefits and resources.
Right to receive financial assistance: In some cases, green card holders may be eligible for financial assistance programs, such as food stamps, housing assistance, and other forms of public aid.
Right to receive protection while abroad: As a green card holder, you may be eligible for assistance from the U.S. government while traveling abroad, including security in case of arrest or detention.
Access to financial services: Green card holders can open bank accounts, obtain loans, and take advantage of other financial services, which can help them build credit and secure their financial future.
Ability to transfer wealth: Green card holders may assign wealth to their family members in the United States and abroad without being subject to certain restrictions that apply to non-resident aliens.
Right to participate in cultural events: Green card holders have the right to participate in cultural events and organizations, which can help them maintain their cultural heritage and connect with other individuals from their home country.
It’s important to remember that some benefits may be subject to change and may vary depending on state and federal laws. Additionally, holding a green card only guarantees some of the rights and benefits of U.S. citizenship, and some restrictions may still apply. It’s recommended to consult an immigration lawyer or an authorized representative for guidance on the benefits available to green card holders.

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

The process to apply for a green card in the United States typically involves the following steps:

Determine eligibility: There are several categories of eligibility for a green card, including family sponsorship, employment sponsorship, asylum or refugee status, and others. Determining which type applies to you and if you meet the requirements is essential.
File a petition: Depending on the category, you must petition U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to start the green card process. For example, if an employer is sponsoring you, they must file an I-140 Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker on your behalf.
Pay the fees: You must pay the applicable fees for filing the petition and any additional fees for biometrics, processing, and other services.
Attend a biometrics appointment: USCIS will schedule a biometrics appointment for you to provide your fingerprints, photograph, and signature.
Wait for a decision: Once your petition is received and processed, USCIS will decide on your case. If your petition is approved, you will receive a notice to proceed to the next step.
File the Adjustment of Status (AOS) application: If you can adjust your status to that of a green card holder while in the United States, you will need to file the AOS application. This application will require you to provide additional information and documents, such as proof of eligibility and background check results.
Attend an interview: USCIS may schedule an interview with you to verify the information on your application and assess your eligibility for a green card.
Receive the decision: After the interview, USCIS will decide on your case. If your application is approved, you will receive your green card. If it’s denied, you may have the option to appeal the decision or reapply.
Gather supporting documents: You must provide a range of documents to support your application, including proof of eligibility, financial information, identity documents, and more. It’s essential to gather all the required documents before you start the process to avoid delays.
Stay informed of any changes: The laws and regulations regarding green card applications can change frequently, and it’s essential to stay informed of any updates that may affect your case. You can check the USCIS website or consult an immigration lawyer for the latest information.
Be honest and transparent: When applying for a green card, your background must be open and transparent, including any criminal history or previous immigration violations. Providing false information or concealing relevant information can result in denying your application or future immigration benefits.
Consider using an immigration lawyer: While it’s possible to apply for a green card on your own, using an immigration lawyer can help ensure that your application is complete, accurate, and meets all the requirements. A lawyer can also provide legal representation and support in case of any complications or challenges during the process.
Plan for the future: obtaining a green card is essential to becoming a U.S. permanent resident, but it’s just the beginning. It’s necessary to plan for the future, including securing a job, establishing credit, and preparing for U.S. citizenship if that’s your goal.
Maintain your status: Once you have started applying for a green card, it’s essential to maintain your legal level in the country. This includes not engaging in activities that could violate the terms of your visa, such as unauthorized employment or overstaying the period of admission.
Avoid fraud: There are many scams and fraudulent schemes related to green card applications, and it’s essential to be vigilant and avoid any fraudulent activities. Always use reputable sources of information and avoid paying fees or sharing personal information with unauthorized individuals or organizations.
Prepare for the interview: If USCIS schedules a discussion with you as part of the green card process, it’s essential to prepare thoroughly. You will need to answer questions about your background, eligibility, and the information on your application. Practice answering questions with a friend or family member, or consider seeking the help of an immigration lawyer to ensure you are well-prepared.
Keep records and documentation: Throughout the green card process, it’s essential to keep records of all your correspondence and documents, including petition receipts, biometric appointment notices, and any other communications from USCIS. This will help you track your case and keep a record of all the information and evidence you have submitted.
Check your status online. USCIS offers online tools for checking the status of your green card application, and it’s important to check
Medical examination: As part of the green card process, you may be required to undergo a medical exam with a doctor who USCIS authorizes. The test ensures that you have no medical conditions that could make you inadmissible to the United States. The doctor will complete Form I-693, which you must submit with your green card application.
Security and background checks: All green card applicants must undergo security and background checks as part of the process. This includes fingerprinting, FBI background checks, and checks with other law enforcement agencies. These checks are designed to identify any security concerns or criminal history that may make you inadmissible to the United States.
Fees: There are fees associated with the green card process, including the filing fee for the application, a fee for biometric services, and other related costs. The prices vary depending on the type of green card you are applying for and your circumstances.
Adjustment of Status: If you are already in the United States and eligible to apply for a green card, you may be able to adjust your status through a process known as adjustment of status. This allows you to apply for a green card without leaving the United States.
Consular processing: If you are outside the United States and eligible for a green card, you may need to undergo consular processing, which involves completing the application process at a U.S. consulate or embassy in your home country.
Processing times: The processing time for a green card application can vary widely depending on a range of factors, including the type of application, the workload of USCIS, and individual circumstances. Processing times can take several months or even years, so it’s essential to be patient and plan accordingly.
The green card process can be complex and requires careful preparation and attention to detail. Seeking the help of an immigration lawyer, staying informed of updates and changes, and being prepared for each step of the process can help increase your chances of success.

Costs and Fees for US Green Cards

The cost of obtaining a green card in the United States can vary depending on several factors, including the type of green card you are applying for and your circumstances. Here are some of the fees you can expect to pay as part of the green card process:

Application fee: The fee for submitting a green card application to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is currently $1,130.
Biometric services fee: There is a fee of $85 for biometric services, which include fingerprinting and a photograph.
Premium processing fee: If you want your green card application to be processed more quickly, you can pay an additional $1,440 for premium processing services.
Medical examination fee: You must undergo a medical examination as part of the green card process. This service will have a fee, which can vary depending on your chosen doctor.
Legal fees: If you choose to seek the help of an immigration lawyer, there will be legal fees associated with their services. These fees can vary depending on the lawyer and the complexity of your case.
Other fees: There may be additional fees associated with the green card process, including fees for translation services, copying and mailing expenses, and fees for any expedited services.

It’s important to know that fees are subject to change, and you should always check with USCIS for the most up-to-date information. Additionally, some applicants may be eligible for fee waivers or reductions under certain circumstances, such as financial hardship or certain types of employment-based green card applications.

There are several application forms related to green cards in the United States. Some of the most commonly used formats include:

Form I-90: Application to Replace the Permanent Resident Card This form is used to renew or replace a green card.
Form I-129F: Petition for Alien Fiancé (e). U.S. citizens use this form to petition for a fiancé visa for their foreign national spouse.
Form I-130: Petition for Alien Relative This form is used by U.S. citizens and permanent residents to petition for a green card for a relative.
Form I-140: Immigrant Petition for Alien Workers This form is used by U.S. employers to petition for a green card for a foreign national worker.
Form I-485: Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status This form is used by individuals already in the United States to apply for a green card.
Form I-765: Application for Employment Authorization This form is used by individuals with pending green card applications to apply for work authorization.
Form I-864: Affidavit of Support A U.S. sponsor uses this form to demonstrate that they will financially support a foreign national applying for a green card.

These are some of the most commonly used forms related to green cards in the United States. It’s essential to consult an immigration lawyer or the USCIS for the most up-to-date information, as the conditions and requirements can change over time.

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Important Website URLs for Green Card Applications

Here are the URLs for some important websites regarding the green card in the United States:

United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS): https://www.uscis.gov/
Department of State (DOS): https://www.state.gov/
U.S. Embassies and Consulates: https://www.usembassy.gov/
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP): https://www.cbp.gov/
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Ombudsman: https://www.dhs.gov/immigration-ombudsman

These websites can provide valuable information and resources for individuals applying for or holding a green card in the United States. It’s essential to consult with an immigration lawyer or the USCIS for the most up-to-date information, as the requirements and processes can change over time.

You can find the contact information for U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), the government agency responsible for processing green card applications, on their website at www.uscis.gov. On this site, you can find information on how to contact USCIS by phone, email, or mail and access to live assistance through their online chat service.

In addition, you can also contact the National Customer Service Center (NCSC) by calling 1-800-375-5283 for general information and assistance on immigration services, including green card applications.

It’s also important to remember that if you are working with a licensed immigration lawyer, they can provide additional guidance and support throughout the green card application process, including answering any questions and addressing any concerns.

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

If your green card has expired, you should take steps to renew it as soon as possible. Here are the steps you can take:

Check your eligibility: Ensure you can renew your green card. You must still be a lawful permanent resident and meet specific other criteria.
Gather the required documents: You must provide documentation to support your application, such as proof of your identity, proof of lawful permanent residency, and evidence of any changes in your circumstances since your last green card application.
File Form I-90: Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card, with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to renew your green card.
Pay the fee: There is a fee for renewing your green card, which must be paid when you file your application.
Attend an interview. You may have to meet with a USCIS officer for an interview depending on your situation.
Wait for a decision. USCIS will review your application and make a decision. You will be notified by mail of the outcome of your application.

It’s essential to renew your green card before it expires, because if you don’t, you could lose your status as a lawful permanent resident and have to go through the removal process.Also, you might be unable to return to the U.S. if you stay outside the country long after your green card expires.

If you need help renewing your green card or have questions about how to do it, you might want to talk to an immigration lawyer.

If your green card expires, there can be severe consequences. Here are some of the potential effects:

Loss of status as a permanent resident: If your green card expires, you could lose your status as a permanent resident and be kicked out of the U.S.
Inadmissibility: If you stay outside the U.S. long after your green card expires, you may not be able to come back and be ruled inadmissible.
Problems getting a job or traveling: If your green card has expired, it can be hard to get a job, open a bank account, or leave and return to the United States.
Removal proceedings: If you are found to be in the United States without a valid green card, you may be placed in removal proceedings and face the possibility of being deported.

Renewing your green card before it expires is vital to avoid these consequences. If you have any questions about renewing your green card or are having trouble, you should ask an immigration lawyer for advice.