Getting a visa means that you can legally travel to and stay in the United States. Getting a green card means you are officially a lawful permanent resident who can stay in the country for the rest of your life. It creates new opportunities and extends new rights to you.
Applying for a Green Card is one of the most important steps in the modern immigration process. However, many people find themselves facing unexpected challenges. Many Green Card applicants don’t get approved and instead have to give up their dream of permanently residing in the United States or appeal the decision against them.
What are some of the most common reasons that people struggle to get their Green Cards?
They don’t meet eligibility criteria
The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has strict rules about who can enter the United States and who can become a permanent resident or citizen. Your employment status, your criminal history and even your health can affect your eligibility for a Green Card. You typically need to have a connection of some kind to the United States to apply directly for a Green Card.
Some applicants don’t realize that even non-violent criminal charges can affect their immigration rights. Drug charges and prostitution offenses could stop someone from passing a criminal background check.
Another reason people find themselves ineligible for a Green Card is that they apply while already residing in the United States. In many cases, applicants have to apply before they enter the United States or have to leave during the application process.
They make mistakes with their application paperwork
While some of the people who get denied when they apply for their Green Card aren’t eligible, others just make paperwork mistakes. Failing to send the right documentation, omitting a signature or otherwise making a mistake with your application could mean a rejection.
It can be very hard for individuals to navigate the complex paperwork involved in immigration proceedings. Having professionals assist you can help you avoid mistakes and also timing errors that could affect your likelihood of success.
Getting a Green Card will protect your right to stay in the United States. It can also help you bring other loved ones into the country. Recognizing the challenges involved in different immigration processes can help you overcome those challenges.
