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How to Get a Green Card: Your Guide to Family-Based Immigration


Pursuing a green card or permanent residency in the United States through family-based immigration can often be a complex process. It involves a myriad of forms, eligibility criteria, and legal procedures. This guide, provided by Tulip, PLLC, aims to help you navigate through this journey toward citizenship in a clear and straightforward manner.


Determining Eligibility: The First Step

Your eligibility for a green card is the first thing to consider. Generally, if you are an immediate relative of a U.S. citizen or a lawful permanent resident, you are eligible. Immediate relatives include spouses, unmarried children under 21, and parents of U.S. citizens who are at least 21 years old.


Key Steps in the Process

  1. Sponsorship: Your U.S. citizen or permanent resident sponsor files an immigrant visa petition, Form I-130. This form confirms your familial relationship.

  2. Visa Availability: After the petition approval, your next steps depend on your category. For immediate relatives, visas are available right away. Others might have to wait until a visa becomes available, as per the Department of State's Visa Bulletin.

  3. Adjustment of Status or Consular Processing: If you are in the U.S., you can apply for Adjustment of Status (Form I-485). If you are outside the U.S., you will go through consular processing at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate.


The Impact of Incorrect or Incomplete Information

When filling out your immigration forms, every detail matters. Mistakes or omissions can lead to delays, denials, and even permanent barriers to future applications.


Precision: A Must in Immigration Processes

Being precise and accurate is critical when applying for a green card. Even a minor error or typo can result in rejection. It is important to review all data before submission, making sure no detail is overlooked.


Why Choose Tulip, PLLC?

At Tulip, PLLC, we know the immigration process. We keep communication open, allowing clients to work directly with their attorneys and stay updated on their case status. Our founding partner, a first-generation immigrant herself, provides us with a unique perspective on the immigration process. We offer fixed pricing, eliminating surprise legal bills.


Starting your journey toward a green card might seem daunting. But with the right help, you can move through the process with confidence. If you're wondering about getting a green card or have questions about family-based immigration, Tulip, PLLC is here to guide you.




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