Austin Green Card Attorneys Here To Help

How to Apply for a Green Card in Austin

Becoming a lawful permanent resident of the United States requires you to apply for a green card – and for many people, the best way to do that is to work with an Austin immigration attorney.

This guide explains how to apply for a green card in Austin and answers some common questions about the process.

Many people choose to work with an Austin immigration lawyer to apply for a green card. That’s because an attorney will fill out and file your petition, answer all your questions and even help you prepare for your green card interview if necessary.

Apply for Green Card Austin

Your lawyer will also explain what kind of documentation that the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service will need to process your application, and he or she will be able to help you if you receive an adverse immigration decision.

There are several forms that you or your sponsor may have to file to apply for a green card, and they depend on the reason you’re petitioning the government. Those include:

You may have to file other forms instead, though, so it’s best to work with an Austin immigration lawyer who can help you.

Trying to survive The Green Card process By Yourself Can Be a difficult & Tedious endeavor. Request A Free Consultation to Go Over your Different options.

Who is Eligible for a Green Card?

Not everyone who comes to the United States is eligible for a green card. In fact, green card eligibility is based on immigrant categories. You could be eligible to petition the U.S. government for a green card if you are lawfully present in the country or are abroad if you fall into one of these categories:

If you are in the U.S. on a nonimmigrant visa, it may be more difficult for you to apply for a green card; you may have to reapply for a different type of visa.

Family-Based Green Cards

U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents can petition the U.S. government to sponsor a relative for a green card. Not all relatives are eligible, though. If the sponsor is a U.S. citizen, eligible family members include:

Lawful permanent residents can sponsor:

You and your sponsor must meet all eligibility criteria as well. Your immigration attorney can help you determine what family relationship qualifies for you a green card and help you apply for a green card in Austin.

Employment-Based Green Cards

Employers are allowed to bring foreign workers to the United States to fill positions they can’t fill with American workers. However, companies are required to stick to rigid requirements and comply with all U.S. immigration laws regarding business immigration. For that reason, most companies that want to hire foreign workers choose to work with an attorney when applying for a green card in Austin.

Green Cards for Refugees and Asylees

Refugees and asylees who have been in the United States for at least a year are eligible to apply for green cards. Having lawful permanent residency in the U.S. enables you to live and work anywhere in the country, so it’s a smart choice for many people. Your attorney can help you apply for a green card in Austin if you are in the U.S. as a refugee or asylee.

Green Cards in Other Categories

There are several other people who are eligible to apply for green cards in the United States. Some must fall into very specific categories (such as having worked with the U.S. government as an interpreter in Iraq or Afghanistan), and other categories have a little more leeway. The most common groups that are eligible to apply for green cards include:

Other Immigration Categories for Green Cards

Many other people are eligible for green cards, but only those who fall into certain categories, such as:

If you don’t see a category you fit into here, you may still have options. You should call an attorney and see how you can apply for a green card in Austin or whether there are other steps you need to take.

Do You Need to Talk to an Attorney About How to Apply for a Green Card in Austin?

If you’re considering petitioning the U.S. government for a green card, we may be able to help you. Call our office or contact us online to schedule your free green card consultation – we’ll answer your questions and get you on the right track.