Get Your Green Card

Processing times vary significantly based on the category and your country of birth:

• Immediate relatives of U.S. citizens: 8-14 months
• Family preference categories: 2 to 20+ years depending on relationship and country
• Employment-based: Few months to several years based on category and country
• Diversity visa winners: Must complete process within the fiscal year

Our attorneys will provide realistic timelines based on your specific situation and help expedite the process where possible.

Your work authorization depends on your current status and application type. If you’re adjusting status within the U.S., you can apply for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) while your green card application is pending, which typically takes 3-5 months to receive.

If you’re already on a work visa like H-1B or L-1, you can continue working for your authorized employer. Those going through consular processing abroad generally cannot work in the U.S. until they enter with their immigrant visa.

Yes, but you need proper documentation. If adjusting status in the U.S., you must obtain Advance Parole (Form I-131) before traveling, or your application may be considered abandoned. Processing takes 3-5 months.

If you’re on certain visas like H-1B or L-1, you may be able to travel without Advance Parole. Those in consular processing can travel freely until their interview. We strongly recommend consulting with an attorney before any international travel.

Options after denial depend on the reason for denial. You may be able to:

• File a motion to reopen or reconsider with new evidence
• Appeal to the Board of Immigration Appeals
• Refile the application with additional documentation
• Pursue alternative immigration pathways

Having an experienced attorney significantly reduces denial risk and ensures you have backup options.

No English requirement exists for obtaining a green card. The green card interview can be conducted with an interpreter if needed.

However, English proficiency is required later if you apply for U.S. citizenship (naturalization), with some exceptions for older applicants or those with disabilities. Some employment-based categories may practically require English for the job itself, but this isn’t a legal requirement for the green card.

Yes, immediate family often can. Your spouse and unmarried children under 21 can typically be included as derivative beneficiaries on your application. They’ll receive green cards at the same time as you.

Adult children, married children, parents, and siblings require separate petitions with different wait times. Employment-based principal applicants can include spouse and children. Family-based categories have specific rules about who qualifies. We’ll help you understand options for your entire family.

Green card holders (permanent residents) can live and work permanently in the U.S., but remain citizens of their home country. They cannot vote in federal elections, may lose status if absent from the U.S. for extended periods, and can be deported for certain crimes.

U.S. citizens have full rights including voting, cannot be deported, can petition for more family members, and receive U.S. passports. Green card holders can apply for citizenship after 3-5 years of permanent residence. Both provide most everyday benefits like working anywhere and accessing social services.