Lawful Permanent Residency (LPR) is an immigration status that grants foreign nationals the right to live and work in the United States permanently. Those with their LPR are referred to as green card holders because the federal government issues them a Permanent Resident Card, and these cards were previously green.
While receiving LPR does not provide U.S. citizenship, it does provide a pathway through naturalization. Our immigration attorneys could help you navigate this process. Speak to a seasoned Elgin lawful permanent resident lawyer from our firm if you need assistance.
After receiving a green card, individuals can live and work in the U.S. permanently. Work authorization is not necessary through employers. Receiving LPR also provides the path to citizenship. LPR holders must meet specific requirements, such as continuous residence, and demonstrate good moral character.
Green card recipients may also be eligible for federal and state benefits, including:
It is essential to note that leaving the country for long periods, generally six months or longer, can jeopardize LPR status.
Finally, LPR holders can sponsor specific relatives to obtain their own LPR status and join them here in the U.S. Those with green cards are protected under federal and state laws. They also have specific responsibilities, such as filing their taxes yearly. Our Elgin attorneys are knowledgeable about LPR status and could review each component and detail with you during an appointment.
The federal government provides several ways for individuals to apply for LPR. The most typical is family-based sponsorship. This process requires that a U.S. citizen or green card holder apply through the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services federal agency. Employment-based sponsorship is also an option for those seeking permanent positions with employers in the U.S. This pathway requires the applicant to meet requirements based on skills, education, and labor market needs.
Green card approval provides many benefits and opportunities for foreign nationals to build permanent lives in the U.S. The application process varies depending on whether the individual is already living in America or petitioning for approval from outside the country.
Those living in the U.S. can apply for an adjustment of status and navigate the process without leaving the country. For those living abroad who must work with the U.S. embassy or consulate in their home country, consular processing is necessary. Due to the complexities of obtaining LPR, working with one of our Elgin attorneys is important.
The federal government prioritizes the processing and distribution of immigrant visas based on the applicant’s relationship to a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident sponsor. These groups are called preference immigrant categories, and they include:
Our qualified Elgin lawyers know the LPR process thoroughly and could provide sound legal advice, support, and guidance from initiation to approval.
Applying for a green card is exciting but requires considerable time and paperwork. Therefore, you should seek the assistance of an Elgin lawful permanent resident lawyer from our firm to help you through the process.
Our attorneys could help you determine eligibility, complete the paperwork, and follow up with the agencies to keep you updated. Call today to schedule an appointment and begin working on your case.
