What do Colombians and Latinos living in the United States need to obtain a Green card?

Obtaining a Green Card or permanent residence card is an important goal for many Colombians and Latinos living in the United States. This important document allows them to legally reside and work in the North American country. Below, we tell you the most common steps and requirements to obtain it.

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Green Card Eligibility Categories

There are several categories under which you can apply for a Green card. These are the most common, according to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

• Relatives of US citizens or permanent residents: spouses, children, parents and siblings of US citizens, as well as spouses and unmarried children of permanent residents. This is one of the most direct and common ways to obtain the document.
• Employment: Workers with special skills, professionals with advanced degrees, and other qualified employees can be sponsored by a U.S. employer. This category includes several subcategories such as priority workers, professionals with advanced degrees, and unskilled workers.
• Refugees and asylees: People who have been recognized as refugees or asylees can apply for permanent residence after one year of being admitted to the North American country.
• Diversity: The Diversity Visa Program, known as the visa lottery, offers an opportunity for people from countries with low immigration rates to the United States. Up to 50,000 diversity visas are granted each year.

Green card application process

The Green Card application process generally includes the following steps, according to the US Department of State’s Visa Appointment Service:

Immigrant petition: In most cases, a sponsor (family member or employer) must file an immigrant petition on behalf of the applicant.

The most common forms are:

• Form I-130: Foreign Relative petition, used for family-based applications.
• Form I-140: Immigrant Petition for Foreign Worker, used for employment-based applications.

Adjustment of status or consular procedure: Depending on whether the citizen is inside or outside the United States, the process is different.

• Status adjustment: If the citizen is already in the United States, You can file Form I-485 to adjust your status to permanent resident.
• Consular procedure: If the applicant is outside the United States, You must complete the process at a U.S. consulate or embassy in your home country.

Documentation necessary to apply for the Green card

The documentation required to apply for a Green Card may vary, but generally includes the following:

Relationship tests: marriage certificates, birth certificates, etc., to prove the relationship with the sponsor.

• Evidence of Employment: Job offer letters, contracts and other documents demonstrating the job offer and the applicant’s qualifications.
• Proof of continuous residence: documents that demonstrate that the applicant has resided continuously in the United States, if applicable.

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Interview and medical examination for the Green card

Most applicants will have to go through an interview at a USCIS office or a US consulate. Additionally, a medical examination by a licensed physician is required.

What are the costs of the Green card?

Applying for a Green Card involves several costs, including filing fees and medical exam costs. It is important to review the current fees on the USCIS website.

How long does the Green Card take?

Processing time can vary significantly depending on eligibility category and USCIS workload. It is advisable to review current processing times on the USCIS website.

Obtaining a Green card is a process that requires time, patience and attention to details. It is essential to ensure that you meet all requirements and submit the correct documentation to increase your chances of success. For more information and assistance, it is advisable to consult with an immigration attorney or visit the official USCIS website by clicking this link.

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