Elgin is home to a significant number of foreign-born citizens, and many of those citizens were previously considered green card holders. The Permanent Resident Card, known as a green card, is a document that allows an individual who is not a citizen of the United States to live and work permanently here. It is also a necessary component to becoming a citizen.
If you’re trying to become a permanent resident or to help a loved one immigrate to the US, an Elgin green card lawyer can provide a number of services to assist you with your application. Contact Godoy Law Office today to set up an appointment with one of our experienced immigration attorneys.
In addition to being permitted to live and work in the US, green card holders experience other types of benefits—including the ability to sponsor relatives who also wish to live and work here. Additionally, green card holders typically find it easier to travel throughout the US, and they enjoy a greater protection against deportation than visa-holders do.
Permanent residents are eligible for some federal benefits, including education assistance and Social Security, and can make campaign contributions. However, not all federal programs are available to green card holders. Eligibility can vary depending on your situation, so it’s important to consult with an immigration lawyer to understand exactly what benefits and protections apply to you.
When it comes to establishing permanent residency in the US, there are several different categories of people who might qualify, including:
There are other categories of people who may also be eligible to apply for a green card. A well-practiced lawyer in Elgin can help you determine if there is a green card category that fits your specific situation.
In addition to helping people determine if they’re eligible to apply for a green card, an attorney can provide other services throughout the process, including preparing their application and gathering supporting documents. Additionally, a lawyer can represent their clients during court hearings, and provide guidance to help them understand how to maintain their green card status.
A person can lose their green card status for several reasons, including but not limited to:
When a green card holder experiences issues that threaten their ability to keep their permanent resident status, an attorney may be able to intervene and help them prepare a defense.
One of the best benefits of having a green card is the ability to apply to become a US citizen. Most people must be green card holders for at least five years to qualify unless they are married to a US citizen, in which case they are eligible to apply for citizenship after three years. An Elgin green card attorney can assist green card holders as they undergo the naturalization process.
Elgin is home to many people who have a green card and are on the path to citizenship, as well as many who have completed the naturalization process.
If permanent residency and citizenship are in your plans, let our team help you understand the process and the types of services we can provide to assist you. Contact an Elgin green card lawyer at our firm today to learn more.
