The process of renewing permanent residency is a concern for any Green Card holder. Now, how do I know the status of my residency renewal? What is the permanent residency renewal process like? Today we will discuss what an immigrant can do to preserve his or her status.
Don’t risk your status by facing a renovation on your own. Our lawyers have extensive experience in residency and visa renewals. Do not risk your future in the United States. Contact our team and take the first step towards your Green Card.
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What is permanent residency in the United States?
Permanent residency in the United States is a legal status that grants foreigners the right to live and work permanently in the country. Some of the most common means of obtaining it are:
- Employer Petition: This option involves obtaining a job offer sponsored by a U.S. employer through the EB system (EB-1, EB-2 categories, etc.). Qualified employees can achieve permanent residency in this manner.
- Marriage to a U.S. Citizen: If you are married or plan to marry a U.S. citizen, you may apply for an immigrant visa. Your spousal status will determine who you can bring to live and work in the United States.
- Close Relative Sponsorship: If a close relative is a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident, he or she may be able to obtain permanent residency through family sponsorship.
- Diversity Lottery Program: The U.S. Department of State’s Diversity Lottery Program provides opportunities for people from all over the world to apply for a green card. Each year, up to 55,000 immigrant visas are granted through this lottery.
At Urbina Immigration Law, our attorneys have the experience necessary to help you obtain permanent residency through different legal avenues. Do not risk your status by facing these processes alone. Contact us today and get started on the path to permanent legal status in the United States.
How often do I have to renew my permanent residency?
You must renew your permanent residency if your permanent Green Card (valid for 10 years) is about to expire or has expired within the last 6 months or if you must apply for removal of conditions before your conditional Green Card (valid for 2 years) expires.
The application may be submitted 90 days prior to expiration. If approved, you will receive a new Green Card valid for 10 years. However, if it does not have an expiration date, it is best to apply for renewal.
What are the permanent residency renewal requirements?
To apply for permanent residency renewal you must meet the following requirements:
- Be a Green Card holder.
- Be over 18 years of age.
- Five years continuous residence in the country (or three years if married to a U.S. citizen).
- Be physically present for more than 30 or 18 months (depending on the application).
- Demonstrate good character and respect for the law.
Please note that the requirements for renewing permanent residency may vary from case to case. Urbina Immigration Law can help you better understand the requirements necessary for your case. Talk to an attorney today and begin the process of renewing your Green Card.
What documentation is required for permanent residency renewal?
For the permanent residency renewal process you will need to submit the following documentation to USICS:
- Form I-90 (Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card): This form is used to apply for a replacement or renewal permanent resident card (Green Card) in the event of loss, damage, expiration, or incorrect information. Must be filed by any permanent resident card holder who needs a new card.
- Form I-751 (Application to Cancel Conditions of Permanent Residence): Used to remove conditions of conditional permanent residence, especially conditional permanent residence cards valid for 2 years. Those who must apply are conditional permanent residents married to U.S. citizens or those who obtained residency through an entrepreneur.
- Form I-829 (Application by an Entrepreneur to Remove Conditions on Permanent Resident Status): Used to apply for removal of conditions on permanent resident status obtained through investment in a U.S. business. Foreign investors who wish to convert their conditional permanent residency to a standard permanent residency are required to file.
- Proof of continuous stay in the United States: Maintain your status by avoiding being out of the country. Please note that remaining outside the U.S. for more than one year can lead to the loss of lawful permanent residence.
- Evidence of ties in the United States: Documents showing family ties, financial assets, bank accounts and tax returns filed as a resident alien in the United States.
Please note that the documents required for permanent residency renewal may vary depending on your case. At Urbina Immigration Law we can help you get your paperwork in order and make sure everything is submitted in a timely manner. Contact us today and get your documents in order.
What is the permanent residency renewal process like?
The permanent residency renewal process can be summarized in the following steps:
Step 1 – Determine Eligibility
Check to see if you are eligible to renew your Green Card. This includes checking the expiration date of your card and making sure you do not have conditional permanent residency conditions.
Step 2 – Prepare Documentation
Gather the necessary documentation mentioned above. This includes your current Green Card, proof of stay in the U.S., evidence of ties in the country, tax returns and other relevant documents.
Step 3 – Complete Form I-90
Complete Form I-90 (Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card). Be sure to fill it out accurately and sign it, as your application will be automatically rejected if you do not complete the following fields:
– Last Name
– Mailing Address
– Date of Birth
Step 4 – Payment of Fees
Check the required fee for Form I-90 and make the appropriate payment. Amounts may vary and should be checked on the USCIS website.
Step 5 – Submit your Application
Submit your completed application, documentation, and proof of fee payment to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Use a secure mailing method and follow up.
Remember that the process may vary depending on your individual situation. Therefore, it is important to consult with an immigration attorney to guide you through the process. At Urbina Immigration Law we can help you. Contact us today and let’s start the permanent residency renewal process together.
Does the renewal of permanent residency give automatic U.S. citizenship?
While permanent residency renewal is an important preliminary step, this process does not grant U.S. citizenship immediately. The latter requires permanent residency, but you must also meet other requirements, such as passing the citizenship test and demonstrating good character and knowledge of the English language.
How do I know the status of my residency renewal?
To check your residency renewal status, you can use the online visa status checker by selecting “IMMIGRANT VISA (IV)”. If you already have a USCIS receipt number, you can check your status online or by calling the USCIS National Customer Service Center at 1-800-375-5283 (option 2 for Spanish).
What is conditional residency?
Conditional residency is a two-year temporary legal status. It is granted through marriage to a U.S. citizen (e.g., with a K1 visa). At the end of the period, holders must initiate the conditional removal process and obtain permanent residency.
What is the condition removal process?
Removal of conditions is the process in which a conditional permanent resident applies for removal of this status after two years through Form I-751. This grants a permanent Green Card valid for 10 years, renewable, and opens the way to apply for citizenship if the requirements are met.
What happens if my Green Card does not arrive?
If you have waited more than two years for your Green Card to be processed or more than 120 days have passed since your visa interview without a verdict from USCIS, you may be able to take legal action for unreasonable delay.
At Urbina Immigration Law we can help you with any inconvenience or delay in your application. Our attorneys have years of experience in permanent residency application and renewal processes and can guide you through the process. Do not risk your future in the United States. Tell us your case and let’s fight together for your rights.
Renewal of permanent residency with professional attorneys
The permanent residency renewal process is vital for any immigrant in the United States. Not only because it renews your Green Card for 10 years, but also because it can be the first step towards U.S. citizenship. But the process can be confusing, as it varies depending on how you accessed residency.
Therefore, consulting with an experienced attorney is crucial to the success of your application. At Urbina Immigration Law we can help you obtain and renew permanent residency and avoid any undesirable delays. Talk to one of our lawyers today and let’s start fighting for your rights together.
Sources
USA.gov – How to find out the status of a visa application
USA.gov – How to Renew or Replace your Green Card
USCIS – I-90, Application to Replace a Permanent Resident Card (Green Card)
Other resources
How to obtain a Green Card in the United States – Updated Guide
What are the Green Card categories?
Permanent Residence for Victims of Violence or Crimes
K1 fiancé visa: everything you need to know
K1 Visa Approved: Steps to follow and Recommendations
How to complete the removal of conditions process with Form I-751
Form DS 260: The essential step for your immigrant visa
Getting married in the U.S. as an undocumented immigrant: what you need to know
What are the requirements for obtaining U.S. citizenship?
What is the difference between Green Card and citizenship?
My green card is not arriving! What to do in the event of unreasonable delay
