Obtaining a Green Card is a major step in the U.S. immigration process and allows an individual to become a Lawful Permanent Resident (LPR). A Green Card confirms that you have successfully completed the required immigration procedures and are legally authorized to live in the United States on a permanent basis. It also grants permission to work in the U.S. and may serve as a pathway toward U.S. citizenship.

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There are multiple ways to qualify for a Green Card, and immigration laws at both the federal and state level can change over time. Because of this, it is important to understand the rules that apply at the moment you begin your application. In most cases, your case is evaluated based on the laws and regulations in effect when your application is filed, even if those laws later change.

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At Behkar Law, our immigration attorneys assist clients throughout California. We offer consultations to review your Green Card options and help you understand the process from the beginning.

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STEP-BY-STEP OVERVIEW: HOW TO APPLY FOR A GREEN CARD

The Green Card process depends on your individual circumstances, but the general steps typically include the following:

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• A petition is filed on your behalf by a qualifying family member, spouse, or employer. In certain cases, self-petitioning may be allowed.
• U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) reviews and approves the petition.
• An immigrant visa becomes available under your specific category.
• You file a Green Card application with USCIS or a visa application through the U.S. Department of State.
• You attend a biometrics appointment.
• You complete a Green Card interview, if required.
• USCIS issues a final decision on your application.

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HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO GET A GREEN CARD?

The timeline for obtaining a Green Card can vary widely. In some cases, the process may take several months, while in others it can take a year or longer. Processing time depends on factors such as visa availability, application category, and whether the applicant is inside or outside the United States.

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Applicants who are already in the U.S. may be eligible to apply through Adjustment of Status, which often takes a year or more. Applicants outside the U.S. generally complete the process through Consular Processing, which may be completed in a shorter timeframe depending on the visa category and consulate workload.

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GREEN CARD CATEGORIES: FINDING THE RIGHT PATH

U.S. immigration law recognizes several Green Card categories, each designed for different situations:

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Family-Based Immigration
Immediate relatives and certain family members of U.S. citizens or Green Card holders may qualify through family sponsorship.

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Employment-Based Immigration
Individuals with professional experience, specialized skills, or exceptional ability may qualify through sponsorship by a U.S. employer.

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Special Immigrant Categories
This category may include religious workers, abused minors, certain international organization employees, broadcasters, and qualifying nationals from Afghanistan or Iraq.

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Refugees and Asylees
Individuals granted asylum or refugee status may apply for a Green Card after meeting the required residency period in the United States.

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Victims of Human Trafficking or Crime
Applicants holding T or U nonimmigrant status may be eligible to apply for permanent residence.

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Victims of Abuse
Certain spouses, children, or parents who have experienced abuse by a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident may apply independently for a Green Card under protective provisions of immigration law.

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Registry
Individuals who have continuously resided in the United States since before January 1, 1972, and who meet moral character requirements, may qualify for permanent residence through registry.

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In addition to these categories, there are other less common provisions that may allow individuals with unique circumstances to apply for a Green Card. The attorneys at Behkar Law can help identify the most appropriate option for you and your family.

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GREEN CARD RENEWAL AND REPLACEMENT

Most Permanent Resident Cards are valid for 10 years and must be renewed before expiration. If your card is lost, stolen, or damaged, it should be replaced promptly. Lawful Permanent Residents can renew or replace their card by filing Form I-90.

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Conditional Permanent Residents cannot renew their Green Cards. Instead, they must first apply to remove the conditions on their residence.

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• Family-based conditional residents must file Form I-751 during the 90-day period before the card expires.
• Entrepreneur or investor-based conditional residents must file Form I-829 during the 90-day period before the card expires.

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GREEN CARD REVOCATION: IMPORTANT CONSIDERATIONS

While Green Card revocation is not common, it can occur under certain circumstances. Grounds for revocation may include fraud or misrepresentation during the application process, abandonment of U.S. residency, or conviction of certain offenses under the Immigration and Nationality Act.

If you are concerned about your permanent resident status or believe your Green Card may be at risk, it is important to consult an immigration attorney as soon as possible.