A green card, or Permanent Resident Card, is a document issued by the United States government that allows an individual to live and work in the country on a permanent basis. It grants holders certain rights such as the ability to apply for citizenship, receive social security benefits, obtain employment and other benefits. Green cards are generally given to individuals sponsored by family members or employers in the U.S. or through a green card lottery program. The individual must decide on non-concurrent vs concurrent filing.
Once an individual receives their green card, they are able to remain in the United States as a permanent resident, with certain rights and privileges. Applying for a green card is a long and complicated process, so it is important to research your options before applying and ensure you understand the requirements. When it comes to applying for a green card, there are generally two filing options: concurrent and non-concurrent. It’s important to understand the difference between these two options so that you can make the right choice when applying.
Concurrent filing means that the individual is already in the United States and will file both an immigrant visa application and an adjustment of status application at the same time. It allows the applicant to remain in the United States while waiting for their green card application to be approved. Upon approval they adjust status to a legal permanent resident without leaving the United States.
In the green card context you may choose to use this process when you have an immigrant visa immediately available to you because you are the spouse of a U.S. citizen, unmarried child of a U.S. citizen, or parent of a U.S. citizen. You will also need to consider if you are inadmissible for any other reason..
Non-Concurrent filing, on the other hand, means that the individual will apply for an immigrant visa first and then later file an adjustment of status application after their immigrant visa application is approved. This option is less common, but it may be required in certain circumstances. Most often, this is an option that you will need to use when you do not have an immigrant visa immediately available to you.
Hiring an immigration lawyer to help with your green card application can be highly beneficial. An experienced green card immigration lawyer will have a thorough understanding of the green card process and can provide you with invaluable guidance throughout the entire process and save you time and money by preventing costly mistakes, missed deadlines and oversights. Not only can they help you navigate the green card requirements, but they also know how to anticipate and address any potential issues.
We are here for you when you’re ready to hire an immigration attorney. The experienced immigration lawyers at Godoy Law Office offer assistance in immigration matters, including business- and family-based visas, green cards and deportation defense. If you need help with an immigration issue, please contact our office or call us at 630-912-0322.
