For individuals seeking permanent residency in the United States, obtaining a green card, officially known as a permanent resident card, is a significant milestone on the path to achieving their immigration goals. While the green card application process can be lengthy and complex, certain strategies and avenues are available to expedite it and obtain a green card faster than the standard timeline of 90 days or more. In this post, our Duluth immigration lawyers at Barrios Virguez will explore various methods and options for expediting the green card process.
Understanding the Green Card Application Process
Before exploring the ways to expedite the green card process, it is essential to understand the standard steps involved in applying for a green card. The specific requirements and procedures may vary depending on your circumstances and immigration category. However, the general process typically includes the following steps:
- Determining eligibility: This step assesses eligibility for a green card based on factors such as employment sponsorship, family relationships, refugee or asylum status, investment in the U.S. economy, or other special immigrant categories.
- Submitting a petition: This step entails filing a petition with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) by the sponsoring employer, family member, or the individual seeking permanent residency.
- Waiting for approval: This step consists of waiting for USCIS to review and approve the petition, which may involve submitting additional documentation, background checks, and interviews.
- Adjustment of status or consular processing: Depending on your individual circumstances, the step may include adjusting status within the U.S. or applying for an immigrant visa through consular processing abroad.
- Biometric appointment: Once your application is processed, you will need to have your fingerprints collected and photographs taken at your USCIS biometric appointment to complete a thorough background check.
- Attending interviews: This step entails interviews with USCIS or U.S. consular officials to provide additional information, undergo medical exams, and address any concerns or questions about your application.
- Receiving a decision: This step includes receiving a decision on your green card application, which may result in approval, denial, or a request for additional evidence.
- Receiving your green card: If approved, this step consists of receiving your green card and officially becoming a lawful permanent resident of the United States.
Completing the necessary steps in the green card application process is essential. We recommend that you contact our immigration attorneys in Duluth for assistance with this tedious process. We can manage your expectations, explain the factors affecting processing times, and efficiently guide you through the application process.
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Average Green Card Processing Times
The average time it takes USCIS to process your green card application can vary depending on many factors. The processing times can range from months to years. However, you can find up-to-date average processing times on the USCIS chart.
Factors Affecting Green Card Processing Times
USCIS classifies green cards into different categories. Each one of these categories has its own eligibility requirements and processing times. Several factors can influence how long it takes for your green card application to be processed, including:
- The green card category you file under
- USCIS’s workload
- The completeness and accuracy of your application and documentation
- Required government security checks
While the general standard is at least 90 days, the processing time for an I-90 form for your green card application can vary greatly depending on these factors. An experienced Duluth immigration attorney can ensure your documents and application are completed correctly and fully. We can also determine whether there may be options for expediting the green card process.
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Strategies for Expediting the Green Card Process
While the standard green card application process can take 90 days or longer to complete, several strategies and options are available to expedite the process and get a green card faster than 90 days. Our immigration lawyers in Duluth can assist you in reaching your immigration goal as quickly as possible. To help you navigate the green card process more efficiently, you should do the following:
- Choose the right green card category: Consulting with an experienced Duluth immigration attorney can help you determine the most suitable green card category based on your qualifications and ensure you meet all eligibility requirements.
- Prepare a comprehensive application: Our immigration team can assist you in gathering all necessary documentation, ensuring your application is complete and accurate to minimize the risk of delays or requests for additional evidence.
- Respond promptly to USCIS requests: If USCIS requests additional information or evidence, respond promptly to avoid further delays in processing.
- Consider expedited processing, if available: For certain categories and under specific circumstances, USCIS offers premium processing for an additional fee, potentially expediting adjudication within 15 calendar days. However, this option is not available for all green card categories and does not guarantee approval.
- Stay informed and manage expectations: USCIS offers online case status tracking tools. An immigration attorney at Barrios Virguez can also help you interpret USCIS updates and manage your expectations regarding processing timelines.
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Factors Considered by USCIS for Expedite Requests
As mentioned above, you can request that USCIS expedite your green card application for specific reasons. USCIS considers all requests for expedited processing on a case-by-case basis. USCIS may consider expediting your application under the following circumstances:
- Severe financial hardship, such as situations where you or your family members face imminent eviction, foreclosure, or loss of essential services
- Humanitarian reasons, such as medical emergencies, severe illnesses, or other urgent circumstances affecting your health and safety or that of a family member
- Non Profit organizations that are culturally or socially benefitting from your work
- National interest reasons, such as if you have a unique skill, talent, or contribution that is considered beneficial to the U.S.
- A clear error made by USCIS
You must submit a formal request for expedited processing. You should be prepared to respond promptly and accurately to any inquiries from USCIS. Our immigration attorneys can assist you in completing and submitting your request.
Schedule Your Consultation Today
Obtaining a green card typically involves a lengthy and complicated process, but there are various strategies and options available to expedite the process and obtain permanent residency in the U.S. faster than 90 days. At Barrios Virguez, we can help you explore several avenues to have your application expedited. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and receive valuable guidance and support tailored to your individual needs and goals.
Call or text 678-888-2222 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
