With the prestige of becoming a green card holder and lawful permanent resident of the United States, the immigration process is both challenging and time-consuming. Immigrating and becoming a permanent resident involves a lot of forms and paperwork, yet there is no assurance that you will successfully get a green card.

A good immigration lawyer can help tremendously when applying for green cards and lawful permanent residence. Immigration forms differ for each particular case. If your immigration petition is accepted, you become a lawful permanent resident and could have a chance at eventually obtaining citizenship.

Below are several instances where immigration attorneys can help:

1) While obtaining a green card and permanent resident status could be quite a challenge, it is not entirely impossible. A good lawyer can explain to you basic immigration laws and the different ways a foreign national may immigrate and get lawful permanent residence through the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

2) Aspiring lawful permanent residents must first be aware of the green card process. An experienced lawyer will help you fill out immigration papers and prepare supporting documents necessary for you to become a permanent resident. He or she can also help you prepare for your immigration interview with the USCIS Office.

3) If you are planning to get a green card through marriage to a US citizen or a lawful permanent resident, a good lawyer can help you in proving that the marriage is bonafide. If you are an advanced degree professional of a different nationality, your lawyer can explain how you can get a US green card through the national interest waiver.

4) A permanent residence card issued by the USCIS has a validity of 10 years. While an expired card will not cost you your lawful permanent resident status, it would be hard to prove your immigration status in instances where you will be required to do so. As such, a reliable immigration attorney can help you renew an expired green card.

5) You may only apply for a green card renewal six months before expiration. The actual renewal, however, may take more than six months after immigration forms are filed and filing and biometrics fees are paid. While USCIS processing times do vary, a lawyer can help you make sure that it will not be excessively delayed. 

6) If you are a conditional permanent resident, your conditional green card and residency should be ‘renewed’ after two years. The renewal must be either six months before the expiration date or 18 months after arriving at your port of entry. A reliable lawyer can help in petitioning the immigration court to remove the conditions and obtain, instead, a non-conditional permanent resident card.

For any concerns on immigrant visas, green card application, removal of conditions, consular processing, or adjustment of status, call us for assistance. Contact us at Diener Law to consult with an experienced immigration attorney.