What is a Green Card?

A Green Card, officially known as a Permanent Resident Card, grants individuals lawful permanent resident status in the United States. With a Green Card, you can live and work legally anywhere in the U.S., including cities such as Phoenix, Scottsdale, Mesa, Glendale, and Tempe.

Ways to Obtain a Green Card in Arizona

Several pathways exist for securing a Green Card:

Family-Based Green Cards

Family members of U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents may qualify through:

• Immediate relatives (spouses, children under 21, parents of U.S. citizens)
• Family preference categories (adult children, siblings of citizens, spouses, and children of permanent residents)

Employment-Based Green Cards

Employment-based options include:

• EB-1 (Priority Workers: individuals with extraordinary ability, professors, executives)
• EB-2 (Professionals holding advanced degrees, persons with exceptional ability)
• EB-3 (Skilled workers, professionals, and other workers)

Green Cards for Special Immigrants

Certain individuals, such as religious workers, special immigrant juveniles, and employees of international organizations, may qualify for special immigrant status.

Green Cards through Refugee or Asylee Status

Individuals granted refugee or asylum status can apply for permanent residency one year after their initial status approval.

Steps to Apply for a Green Card in Phoenix and Surrounding Cities

Step 1: Determine Your Eligibility

Phoenix Immigration Law Group assesses your specific circumstances to identify the best pathway for obtaining your Green Card.

Step 2: File the Appropriate Petition

Depending on your category, file the relevant petition:

• Family-based: Form I-130
• Employment-based: Form I-140
• Special Immigrant: Form I-360

Step 3: Adjustment of Status or Consular Processing

• Adjustment of Status: If already residing legally in Phoenix, Scottsdale, Mesa, Glendale, Tempe, or elsewhere in the U.S., file Form I-485 to adjust your status domestically.
• Consular Processing: For those outside the U.S., undergo consular processing at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate.

Step 4: Complete Your Interview

Attend an interview at the USCIS office in Phoenix or the U.S. consulate abroad. Thorough preparation with Phoenix Immigration Law Group ensures you are ready and confident.

Green Card Processing Times in Phoenix Area

Processing times vary significantly:

• Family-based Green Cards: Typically between 6 months to several years, depending on visa availability.
• Employment-based Green Cards: Generally processed within 12-24 months.
• Adjustment of status interviews in Phoenix usually occur within 6-18 months after filing Form I-485.

Common Issues When Applying for Green Cards

• Incomplete documentation: Ensure all required documents are accurate and complete.
• Incorrect forms: Errors delay processing or result in rejection.
• Eligibility confusion: Clearly understanding eligibility criteria prevents costly mistakes.

Why Choose Phoenix Immigration Law Group?

Phoenix Immigration Law Group proudly provides:

• Comprehensive review and thorough documentation assistance
• Expert advice tailored to your unique immigration situation
• Strong advocacy during interviews and interactions with USCIS
• Personalized, responsive service across Phoenix, Scottsdale, Mesa, Glendale, Tempe, Chandler, Gilbert, Peoria, and other neighboring Arizona communities

Serving Phoenix and Surrounding Areas

We proudly serve individuals and families throughout the greater Phoenix area, including Scottsdale, Mesa, Glendale, Tempe, Chandler, Gilbert, Peoria, and other surrounding cities. Our local expertise ensures we effectively address your immigration needs specific to Arizona.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How much does it cost to apply for a Green Card?

Application fees vary based on category and processing location. Typically, Form I-485 costs $1,225 (includes biometric services). Additional fees may apply for petitions and medical exams.

Can I expedite my Green Card application?

Expedited processing is available in exceptional cases, including severe financial hardship, urgent humanitarian reasons, or specific employment circumstances.

What happens after my Green Card application is approved?

After approval, you receive your Green Card and become a lawful permanent resident, authorized to live and work in the U.S. indefinitely.

Start Your Green Card Journey Today

Let Phoenix Immigration Law Group guide you through the Green Card application process. Contact our Phoenix office today for expert assistance, ensuring your path to permanent residency is smooth and successful.