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The process of obtaining a green card in Lake County, IL, can be daunting, especially if you want to ensure you meet all eligibility requirements and keep the application process smooth. With a deeper understanding of how this process works, you can increase your chances of a successful application.

If you require further assistance with your application, please contact Godoy Law Office, where we can connect you with a Lake County green card lawyer.

Eligibility Requirements for a Green Card

To be eligible for a permanent resident card, also known as a green card, an individual must meet specific general requirements. These requirements include:

  • Being physically present in the U.S. at the time of applying
  • Undergoing proper inspection and admittance into the U.S.
  • Qualifying for an immigrant visa
  • Either being without disqualifying criminal convictions or obtaining a waiver of inadmissibility

If there is any uncertainty regarding eligibility, a Lake County green card attorney could help determine whether an individual meets these criteria.

Common Types of Green Card Categories

Depending on your qualifications, you may be able to apply for a permanent resident card through one of three main categories:

Family-Based Immigration

Individuals may be able to apply for a green card through family-based immigration if he or she is an immediate relative of a U.S. citizen, another relative of a U.S. citizen, or a lawful permanent resident (LPR), the fiancé(e) or child of a U.S. citizen, or the widow(er) of a U.S. citizen.

Employment-Based Immigration

Another route that immigrants could take is to apply for a green card through employment as an immigrant worker, an immigrant investor, or a physician using a Physician National Interest Waiver.

Special Immigrant Category

Immigrants can also apply for a green card if they fall under a special immigrant category, as defined by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). For instance, immigrants may qualify for a green card as a religious worker, a Special Immigrant Juvenile, an Iraq or Afghanistan translator or interpreter, an international broadcaster, or the employee of an international organization and a particular family member.

Asylum or Refugee Status

If an individual in the U.S. fears persecution or has experienced persecution in their country of origin and wishes to reside safely in the U.S. to avoid it, he or she may apply for a green card as an asylee or refugee.

An experienced green card lawyer could help immigrants in Lake County determine what categories they qualify for when applying for a green card.

Why Work With a Green Card Lawyer?

There are multiple benefits of connecting with a Lake County green card attorney when navigating the application process.

For example, an attorney could provide legal advice on the appropriate immigrant category to find the best route to obtain a green card. Additionally, they could help prepare all necessary documentation and file it with USCIS.

Even if an individual does not qualify for a green card, a lawyer could determine what other options are available to legally live and work in the U.S.

Speak With an Experienced Lake County Green Card Attorney

Want to obtain a permanent resident card the right way? At Godoy Law Office, we may be able to help you on the path to successfully becoming a green card holder.

Schedule a consultation with a Lake County green card lawyer to discuss your legal options.

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