Obtaining lawful permanent residence—commonly known as getting a Green Card—can be one of the most important milestones in an immigrant’s life.
A Green Card generally allows an individual to live and work permanently in the United States, subject to U.S. immigration laws. For many immigrants, permanent residence can also become an important step toward eventually qualifying for U.S. citizenship.
At Legalízate Ya, we help individuals and families in Laredo and throughout Texas understand their options for pursuing lawful permanent residence.
How Can Someone Get a Green Card?
There is no single Green Card application process that applies to everyone. Eligibility depends on the immigration category and the applicant’s individual circumstances.
Potential pathways can include:
- Family-based immigration
- Marriage to a U.S. citizen or permanent resident
- Employment-based immigration
- Certain humanitarian programs
- Refugee or asylee status
- Special immigrant classifications
- Other categories established under U.S. immigration law
Determining which pathway applies is one of the most important first steps.
Don’t face the immigration process alone. We’re here to guide you every step of the way.”
Family-Based Green Cards
Family relationships are among the most common foundations for permanent immigration.
U.S. citizens may be able to petition for qualifying relatives, including spouses, children, parents and, in certain circumstances, siblings. Lawful permanent residents may also petition for certain family members.
However, the process and waiting period can differ substantially depending on the petitioner’s immigration status and the beneficiary’s family relationship.
The Department of State identifies several family-based immigrant visa classifications for immediate relatives and family-sponsored preference categories.
Adjustment of Status vs. Consular Processing
Two terms frequently encountered during the Green Card process are adjustment of status and consular processing.
Adjustment of status generally refers to the process through which an eligible person already in the United States applies for permanent residence without completing the immigrant visa process abroad.
Consular processing generally involves pursuing an immigrant visa through a U.S. embassy or consulate outside the United States.
Which process applies depends on numerous factors, including the applicant’s location, immigration history, manner of entry, underlying immigrant category and potential grounds of inadmissibility.
Need Help With Your Immigration Case?
Our immigration attorneys are ready to help. Initial consultation available!
Fight for Your Future
- For your right to live and work in the United States
- For the stability of your family
- For the opportunities you deserve
Don’t face the immigration process alone. Let our legal team guide you every step of the way.
What Can Complicate a Green Card Application?
Even apparently straightforward immigration cases can involve complications.
Issues may arise involving previous immigration violations, unlawful presence, prior removal proceedings, criminal history, prior applications, misrepresentation, insufficient documentation or questions concerning eligibility.
For this reason, it can be particularly important to have your immigration history evaluated before submitting an application or leaving the United States for a consular interview.
Start Your Path Toward Permanent Residency
Getting a Green Card can create opportunities for greater stability and a long-term future in the United States.
If you want to know whether you or a family member may qualify for permanent residency, speak with the immigration team at Legalízate Ya.
Contact our Laredo immigration lawyers today to discuss your Green Card options.
