How do I apply for a green card for myself?
In some cases, you may be eligible to file for yourself. After USCIS approves the immigrant petition, and there is a visa available in your category, you file either a Green Card application with USCIS or a visa application with the U.S. Department of State. You go to a biometrics appointment to provide fingerprints, photos, and a signature.
What does it mean to have a green card?
Having a Green Card (officially known as a Permanent Resident Card (PDF, 6.77 MB) allows you to live and work permanently in the United States. The steps you must take to apply for a Green Card will vary depending on your individual situation.
Can a green card application be approved with inadmissibility?
In general, USCIS can only approve your Green Card application only if none of the grounds of inadmissibility apply to you. If you are inadmissible, the law may allow you to apply for a waiver of inadmissibility or other form of relief in your situation.
Can a family preference immigrant apply for a green card?
If you are currently outside the United States, see Consular Processing for information about how to apply for a Green Card as a family preference immigrant. An immigrant visa is immediately available to you at the time you file your Form I-485 and at the time USCIS makes a final decision on your application.
What to do if you change your address on your green card?
You don’t have to be in the dark about your Green Card change of address. Here are a few tips to help you out. Use certified, registered, or receipt mail. Hard copies of your papers help to prove to any immigration officials your compliance. Create copies of the confirmations and store them for future use.
How can I check the status of my green card application?
Start by checking your eligibility. Checking online is by far the easiest way to track the status of your green card application. But the right place to look depends on whether you applied from within or outside the United States.