If you are ready to permanently immigrate to Michigan or have an existing visa and want to obtain permanent residency status, you must secure a green card. Because of the complexities involved in the process, you must work with an experienced immigration lawyer who can guide you through the application process and address any complications along the way. At Rodnick, Piraino & Ingber, PLLC, we are ready to help you prepare for immigration in Michigan.
How Do I Apply for a Green Card in Michigan?
Whether you live outside the United States or are already in the country dictates which method you must use to apply for a green card in Michigan. Consular processing is for those living outside the U.S. who want a green card. Prospective immigrants who are already in the country must go through the adjustment of status process.
What Are the Steps for Consular Processing?
If you are living outside of the United States, your attorney will guide you through the consular processing method for applying for a green card as follows:
- Determining eligibility – First, your attorney will help you determine whether you fit into one of the categories of people eligible to apply for a green card.
- Filing an immigrant petition – You, your relative, or your Michigan employer may need to file an immigrant petition, depending on your eligibility category.
- Helping you prepare for your interview – After you file the petition and while you wait for a decision from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), your attorney will help you prepare for an interview once a visa number is available. This includes collecting the necessary documents and fees.
After these steps, you will go to the consulate to be interviewed to determine whether you qualify for an immigrant visa. If USCIS approves your application, you must pay a USCIS Immigrant Fee. Upon your arrival in the United States, you will submit your visa packet at the port of entry to become a permanent resident. Finally, the government will mail your green card.
What Are the Steps for Adjustment of Status?
At Rodnick, Piraino & Ingber, PLLC, we understand that knowing how to immigrate to the United States when you are already in the country can be confusing. We will walk you through the process of acquiring an adjustment of status by:
- Determining your eligibility – We will check to see if you meet the eligibility requirements to adjust your status.
- Filing an immigrant petition – You, or someone on your behalf, must file an immigrant petition unless your category does not require it.
- Checking visa availability – We will ensure a visa is available in your category before proceeding.
- Filing Form I-485 – We will prepare and submit Form I-485 to apply for lawful permanent resident status.
Once these steps are complete, you will attend an appointment at a local Application Support Center, where you will provide fingerprints and other biometric data. If necessary, you may need to attend an interview at a USCIS office. We will assist in responding to additional requests by supplying any additional information or documents if USCIS requests them. You will then receive a decision as to whether your application was approved or denied.
How an Immigration Attorney Can Help
Preparing for immigration in Michigan can mean confusing paperwork and legal obstacles. At Rodnick, Piraino & Ingber, PLLC, we will guide you through the process. Attorney Aaron Ingber stands ready to help you. We know the path to your green card may have been difficult, and we want to help streamline the process going forward. Contact us today for a free consultation.
