The United States gave approximately 700,000 immigrants residency rights in 2018. The success of their immigration status was due to the continued support of the previous administration, which included work specialization for immigrants in the country. Such statistics is roughly a 16% increase in approved applications since 2014.
Today, the chances of immigration approval have drastically gone down under Trump’s administration. There are nearly 730,000 pending applications left at the mercy of immigration officials. Meanwhile, reports show that USCIS is doing its best to act and address immigration petition backlogs.
President Trump, on the other hand, has been vocal about stopping illegal migrants from entering the country and called for stricter immigration policies. Meanwhile, the immigration office focused on improving the process of Green Card Renewal.
Having a Green Card Means Being a Legal Resident in the US
Having a green card means living lawfully as a legal resident in the US. You get the same equal rights as a US citizen. And under immigration policies, a permanent resident is also given a chance to practice your profession.
It Gives You the Right to Petition
A green card holder also has the right to petition close family members though it often requires years of processing. They have to comply with the necessary requirements required by the US government.
Traveling Rights
Under the green card protection, you can quickly travel in and out of the country without any problems. You can also enjoy the tourism and business opportunities in neighboring states without being questioned or held by immigration.
Overseas entry, though, depends on your approved stay. It is critical to remember that going back to your country of origin and staying there for six months can alarm immigration authorities. That is ground for questioning and a presumption that you have abandoned your residence.
Likewise, be aware that you must process your Green Card Renewal when nearing its expiration. So, you have to be conscious of the expiration date and must file Form l-90 either online or by mail. It is best to begin your renewal process six months before your green card expires.
Who May Obtain A Green Card?
There are categories of who is eligible to obtain a green card. Some of the criteria are listed below.
- Immediate or close relatives of US-born citizens
Relatives of inborn US citizens have the fastest application process. As long as they have the citizen-relative petitions or if they are married, a fiancé, or adopted to a US-born citizen.
- Green card through employment
You are eligible to apply if you are a first preference immigrant worker. That means that you have extraordinary abilities in the field of science, arts, education, and business.
You can also be classed as a second preference immigrant worker when you have an advanced degree or seeking a physician’s national interest waiver.
Lastly, a third preference worker means that you possess a bachelor’s degree or if you have a job that requires two years of training.
- Long-time residence
A long-term citizen who is living in the US for more than ten years is qualified to apply for a permanent residence.
- Green card as a special immigrant
A religious or spiritual worker falls in this aspect. If you are a member of religious domination coming to the US for work in a nonprofit organization, then you are qualified for a Green Card.
Under many circumstances, applying for a green card may take several months to a few years. However, waiting for the right opportunity and time is unquestionably worth the effort and patience. Possession of this can be a good investment in the future, especially if you want to establish a place in the United States.
