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Green Card Requirements in Dallas
If you are a foreign national seeking to live and work in the United States, obtaining lawful permanent residency is a significant step toward achieving your goal.
In Dallas, like in other cities across the United States, there are specific legal permanent resident requirements that you must meet to be eligible for permanent residency.
Andrew T. Thomas, Attorneys at Law, can help you with the requirements for becoming a legal permanent resident and any other documentation you may need.
What Is Required for a Permanent Resident?
The permanent residency status, also called the green card, allows foreigners to live and work in the United States indefinitely. The requirements for permanent residency vary depending on whether you have a qualifying family relationship, an employment offer, or you are an investor.
Applicants must apply with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for permanent residency in Dallas. The application process involves proving eligibility, sending the necessary documents, and attending an interview.
Navigating complex immigration laws and regulations can be a daunting task. Therefore, it is vital that you seek the assistance of an experienced immigration attorney in Texas to help you through the application process.
Benefits of Being a US Permanent Resident
Living and working in the United States indefinitely is one of the major benefits of becoming a legal permanent resident. You can also apply for a driver’s license, a Social Security number, and a state ID card as a permanent resident, and they can apply for US citizenship after a certain period of time. Also, permanent residents are not required to obtain a visa when traveling abroad and returning to the US.
Additionally, permanent residents of Dallas may also sponsor family members for permanent residency, provided they meet the legal requirements.
Applying for a Green Card
A green card is proof of your lawful permanent resident status in the United States. It is a small, wallet-sized card that contains your name, photograph, and other identifying information. Green cards are typically valid for ten years and must be renewed.
You must first determine your eligibility to apply for green cards based on the following categories:
- Family-based
- Employment-based
- Asylum-based categories
Each category has specific legal permanent resident requirements. It is essential to consult with an immigration attorney to determine which type applies to your situation.
Steps for Lawful Permanent Resident Applications
Although the process for obtaining a Lawful Permanent Resident (LPR) status can differ based on the particular immigration category, the process involves the following steps:
- Establish eligibility: Before applying for a green card, you need to determine your eligibility based on the particular immigration category.
- File a Petition: Depending on the category of LPR you qualify for, you or your sponsor must file an immigrant petition with USCIS. You will need to submit supporting documents and complete specific forms depending on the immigration category you are applying under.
- Wait for USCIS Approval: After filing the petition, wait for USCIS approval before applying.
- File an Application: Once the petition is approved, you must apply for a green card with USCIS.
- Attend a biometrics appointment: After filing your application, you must attend a biometrics appointment, where your fingerprints, photograph, and signature will be taken for security and identification purposes.
- Attend the visa interview: After USCIS receives your application, they will schedule an interview with you to review your application and ask you questions about your eligibility.
- Depending on the outcome of the interview, USCIS will decide whether to approve your application. If approved, your green card will arrive in the mail once.
An immigration lawyer skilled in this field can assist you with the application process and ensure that your application is accurate and complete.
How Do You Maintain Legal Permanent Resident Status in Dallas?
As a green card holder or Legal Permanent Resident (LPR) in the United States, you have specific responsibilities that you must fulfill to maintain your legal status. These responsibilities include:
- Maintaining an up-to-date green card: Your Green Card must be renewed before it expires.
- Not leaving the United States for extended periods: You must obtain permission from USCIS before leaving the United States for an extended period, typically more than six months.
- Not acquiring a criminal record: It is important to avoid committing acts that may lead to arrest and conviction.
- Complying with immigration laws: Ensuring you are not violating immigration laws, including working without authorization, is important. Violations of this kind can adversely affect your future immigration case.
- Maintaining your primary residence in the US: It is essential that you maintain your primary residence in the United States and not move your permanent residence to another country.
- Taxes compliance: The IRS requires you to file taxes each year regardless of where you earned your income.
What Is the Difference Between a Legal Resident and a Permanent Resident?
The terms legal and permanent resident are often used interchangeably but have different meanings. A legal resident is a foreign national authorized to live and work in the United States for a limited period, such as a student or a temporary worker.
On the other hand, a permanent resident is a foreign national authorized to live and work in the United States indefinitely.
While permanent residency provides many benefits, it is not the same as U.S. citizenship. Citizenship offers additional benefits over permanent resident cards, such as the ability to vote in elections and obtain a U.S. passport.
To become a U.S. citizen, you must meet specific eligibility requirements, such as being a permanent resident for a certain period, demonstrating English proficiency, and passing a civics exam.
Have Immigration Needs? Give Andrew T. Thomas a Call Today!
Andrew T. Thomas, Attorneys at Law, is the go-to immigration law firm for all your immigration needs. Whether you need us to handle your green card application or adjustment of status, we are committed to helping you navigate the complex U.S. immigration system.
Our experienced attorneys provide tailored solutions to meet your needs, ensuring your immigration journey is smooth and stress-free.
We also offer various immigration services, including family-based immigration, employment-based immigration, and naturalization.
Contact Andrew T. Thomas, Attorneys at Law, today for a free consultation and take the first step towards realizing your immigration dreams.
