A green card is a document that shows you are a permanent resident of the United States. Completing the application process and getting your card allows you to legally live and work in the country. It is one of the best options if you wish to make a home in the U.S.
Categories to Qualify
There are various categories of green cards based on how you can qualify. According to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, you may qualify to apply through the following means:
- Victim of a crime
- Asylee status
- Employment
- Refugee status
- Family
- Victim of abuse
You may also qualify if you fit into a special category, such as working for a religious organization or as an international broadcaster. There is also a diversity visa lottery that you may qualify to enter and could result in a green card. Finally, if you have lived in the country since January 1, 1972, or prior to that and have not left the country or lived elsewhere, then you may be able to register for a green card.
Maintain the Status
After you get your green card, you will have to make sure that you follow all the instructions given to you by immigration officials to maintain your card and avoid losing your status. This includes not leaving the U.S. for an extended period of time and not properly filing income taxes. If you have conditional permanent resident status, you will have to meet the conditions pending on your green card to avoid losing it. If you have a concern about your status, then you might consider contacting an immigration attorney Jefferson County TX.
Welcome to the U.S.
Securing a green card is a great accomplishment. It takes quite a bit of work to secure one, but the reward is a chance to live in one of the greatest countries in the world.