Permanent Resident Card

A U.S. green card, also called a Permanent Resident Card, is a legal document that grants immigrants the right to live and work in the U.S. As long as the resident does not commit any crimes that have a penalty of deportation. Here’s what you should know about getting a green card in America. 

Paths to Getting a Green Card 

There are multiple ways to qualify for a green card in the United States. Depending on your circumstances, you may be able to apply for a green card through: 

  • Employment. Certain immigrant workers, immigrant investors, and physicians may be eligible for green cards through their employment. 
  • Family. Immigrants may apply for permanent resident status if they are an immediate family member of a U.S. citizen, such as a spouse, child, or parent. 
  • Asylum. Refugees and asylees granted asylum at least one year ago may be eligible for a green card. 
  • Registry. If you have continuously resided in the United States since January 1, 1972, you may register for a green card. 
  • Other options. Other categories of immigrants that may be eligible to apply for a green card include but aren’t limited to Cuban citizens or natives and their spouses or children, Liberian nationals, Canadian American Indians, and Lautenberg parolees. 

Green cards are also available for: 

  • Victims of human trafficking. If you have a nonimmigrant visa and have been a victim of human trafficking or another crime, you may be eligible for permanent residency. 
  • Victims of abuse. Adult and child victims of abuse may also seek permanent residency under certain conditions. 
  • Special immigrants. Some types of workers can apply for a green card as a special immigrant, such as religious workers and international broadcasters. 

*The above is not a comprehensive list. Contact us for more information. 

Should You Contact a U.S. Immigration Attorney to Get a Green Card? 

If you are looking to obtain a green card, it’s possible to apply on your own. However, dealing with U.S. immigration entities and officials can be complicated, especially if English is not your native language. The immigration officials aren’t advocating for you and in some cases, may be looking for ways to deny your application. 

It’s important you have someone on your side who can help you navigate the red tape surrounding immigration to the U.S. Contact Attorney Eluid Zavala now for more information about green cards or for a consultation at (713) 766-6720.