U.S. Permanent Visas (Green Cards) – Your Pathway to Permanent Residency in the United States
Understanding U.S. Permanent Residency
A U.S. Permanent Resident Card (Green Card) grants foreign nationals the right to live and work in the United States permanently. For many, obtaining a Green Card is the first step toward U.S. citizenship. However, the application process is complex and involves strict eligibility requirements, extensive documentation, and government scrutiny.
At Sahin Legal Consultancy, we specialize in assisting clients with employment-based, family-sponsored, and investment-based Green Card applications. Whether you are a skilled professional, a business investor, or a family member of a U.S. citizen, we ensure a smooth and legally compliant application process.
Types of U.S. Green Cards
There are several paths to obtaining permanent residency in the U.S., each with unique requirements and procedures. Below are the primary categories:
1. Employment-Based Green Cards
Employment-based Green Cards are issued to foreign professionals, investors, and skilled workers. These are divided into preference categories:
- EB-1 (Priority Workers)
- Individuals with extraordinary ability in sciences, arts, education, business, or athletics.
- Outstanding professors and researchers.
- Multinational executives or managers.
- EB-2 (Advanced Degree Professionals)
- Professionals with a Master’s degree or higher (or equivalent work experience).
- Individuals with exceptional ability in sciences, arts, or business.
- National Interest Waiver (NIW) for those whose work benefits the U.S.
- EB-3 (Skilled Workers & Professionals)
- Requires a job offer from a U.S. employer.
- Includes professionals with at least a bachelor’s degree, skilled workers (with 2+ years of experience), and unskilled laborers.
- EB-4 (Special Immigrants)
- For religious workers, U.S. government employees, and other special categories.
- EB-5 (Investor Green Card)
- Requires a minimum investment of $800,000 – $1,050,000 in a U.S. business.
- Must create at least 10 full-time jobs for U.S. workers.
2. Family-Based Green Cards
U.S. citizens and Green Card holders can sponsor family members for permanent residency:
- Immediate Relatives (No Annual Cap)
- Spouse of a U.S. citizen.
- Unmarried children under 21 of a U.S. citizen.
- Parents of a U.S. citizen (if the sponsor is 21+ years old).
- Family Preference Categories (Limited Visas Available)
- F1 – Unmarried adult children (21+) of U.S. citizens.
- F2A – Spouses and minor children of Green Card holders.
- F2B – Unmarried adult children (21+) of Green Card holders.
- F3 – Married children of U.S. citizens.
- F4 – Siblings of U.S. citizens (if the sponsor is 21+ years old).
3. Green Card Through Refugee or Asylee Status
- Refugees and asylees can apply for a Green Card after 1 year of being granted asylum or refugee status in the U.S.
Step-by-Step Guide to Obtaining a Green Card
Step 1: Determine Your Eligibility
- Identify the correct category (employment, family, or investment-based).
- Consult with an immigration lawyer to assess eligibility and strategy.
Step 2: File the Petition
- Employment-based cases: The U.S. employer or investor applicant files Form I-140 (Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker).
- Family-based cases: The U.S. citizen or Green Card holder files Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative).
Step 3: PERM Labor Certification (If Required)
- Certain employment-based Green Cards (e.g., EB-2, EB-3) require PERM certification from the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL).
- The employer must prove that no qualified U.S. workers are available for the role.
Step 4: Adjustment of Status (If in the U.S.) or Consular Processing
- If inside the U.S., file Form I-485 (Adjustment of Status) after visa availability.
- If outside the U.S., attend a Green Card interview at a U.S. consulate in your home country.
Step 5: Attend the Green Card Interview
- Bring all supporting documents (passport, birth certificate, employment letters, financial records, etc.).
- Answer questions truthfully to demonstrate eligibility.
Step 6: Receive Your Green Card
- If approved, you will receive your Green Card via mail.
- If denied, you may file an appeal or reapply.
Common Challenges in Green Card Applications & Solutions
1. Long Processing Times & Backlogs
- Some categories, like F4 (siblings of U.S. citizens), have wait times of 10+ years.
- Solution: Consider alternative visa options, such as employment-based visas (EB-2 or EB-3).
2. Employment-Based Sponsorship Issues
- Employers must prove financial stability and compliance with U.S. labor laws.
- Solution: Ensure all documentation (tax returns, business licenses, payroll records) is accurate and complete.
3. Marriage-Based Green Card Scrutiny
- The U.S. government conducts rigorous checks to prevent fraud.
- Solution: Provide strong proof of marriage (joint accounts, lease agreements, wedding photos, etc.).
FAQs on U.S. Permanent Residency
Q1: How long does it take to get a Green Card?
- Processing times vary from 1 to 10+ years, depending on the category.
- Immediate relatives of U.S. citizens have the fastest processing (typically 12-18 months).
Q2: Can I apply for U.S. citizenship after getting a Green Card?
- Yes, Green Card holders can apply for U.S. citizenship after:
- 5 years (for most applicants).
- 3 years (if married to a U.S. citizen).
Q3: Can my Green Card be revoked?
- Yes, if you commit serious crimes, violate immigration laws, or abandon your residency by staying outside the U.S. for too long.
Q4: Can I work immediately after applying for a Green Card?
- If applying from within the U.S., you can apply for a work permit (EAD) while waiting for your Green Card.
Q5: Can I sponsor my family after getting a Green Card?
- Yes, Green Card holders can sponsor:
- Spouses and unmarried children.
- They cannot sponsor siblings or married children (only U.S. citizens can).
Contact Sahin Legal Consultancy for Expert Immigration Assistance
Navigating the U.S. Green Card process requires expert legal guidance. At Sahin Legal Consultancy, we offer:
✅ Comprehensive Green Card strategy sessions.
✅ Personalized support for employment & family-based applications.
✅ End-to-end application assistance & legal compliance.
📞 Call us today for a consultation!
📍 Based in London – Serving clients globally.
