As a foreign national living in the United States, obtaining a green card can be a challenging process. One of the most common ways to obtain a green card is through family sponsorship. In this article, we will provide an overview of the family-based green card application process in Raleigh, NC.
Step 1: Determine Eligibility The first step in applying for a family-based green card is to determine your eligibility. Green cards can be obtained through sponsorship by a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident spouse, parent, child, or sibling. The process and requirements may vary depending on the relationship of the sponsor and the beneficiary.
Step 2: File Form I-130 The next step is to file Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This form establishes the relationship between the sponsor and the beneficiary and is used to initiate the green card application process. The sponsor will need to provide evidence of their U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent resident status and evidence of the beneficiary’s relationship to the sponsor.
Step 3: Wait for Approval Once the Form I-130 is filed, USCIS will review the petition and may request additional evidence or documentation. If the petition is approved, USCIS will forward the case to the National Visa Center (NVC) for processing.
Step 4: Complete Immigrant Visa Application After the petition is approved, the beneficiary will need to complete an immigrant visa application and provide additional documentation to the NVC, including police certificates and medical examinations. The NVC will also schedule an interview at the U.S. consulate or embassy in the beneficiary’s home country.
Step 5: Attend Consular Interview At the consular interview, the beneficiary will need to provide additional documentation and be prepared to answer questions about their background, education, and work history. If the consular officer determines that the beneficiary is eligible for a green card, they will issue an immigrant visa.
Step 6: Enter the United States Once the immigrant visa is issued, the beneficiary can enter the United States as a lawful permanent resident. Upon entry, they will receive a green card as evidence of their status.
Conclusion:
Obtaining a family-based green card can be a long and complex process, but with the help of an experienced immigration lawyer, it is possible to navigate the process successfully. By understanding the steps involved and gathering the necessary documentation, foreign nationals in Raleigh, NC can obtain the green card they need to live and work in the United States.