What Is The Process of Obtaining a US Green Card?

/ Frequently Asked Questions, US Law / / By
Green card fraud lawfuel

A green card is vital for individuals aspiring to move to the United States. Officially called a Permanent Residence Card, this credential grants the privilege of residing and working within the United States, with the potential to pursue US citizenship after a designated period.

However, the process of obtaining a green card is a complex one that requires a careful approach. You must understand eligibility requirements, crucial stages, and the challenges you will likely face. But worry not, as this article discusses what you need to know to help you navigate the green card application process seamlessly.

Ways to Obtain a Green Card

The United States immigration laws offer three primary pathways for individuals seeking to obtain a green card: through family ties, employment opportunities, or as a refugee or asylee. When pursuing a green card through family connections, a relative residing in the US can lawfully request permanent residency on your behalf. US citizens are eligible to petition for their close family members, including spouses, unmarried children under 21, parents of US citizens aged over 21, unmarried adult children, and siblings of US citizens.

For those applying for a green card through employment, the process encompasses job seekers, investors, and individuals possessing exceptional skills or talents. If you are an employee, your prospective US employer can assist you in navigating the procedure, which involves obtaining a labor certification from the US Department of State. Conversely, investors must demonstrate their sufficient financial resources earmarked for investment in US-based businesses.

Lastly, refugees or asylees can apply for a green card a year after entering the US. Meeting the requirements for the application negates the need to submit an immigration petition.

Filing Process and Visa Availability

After identifying your green card application category, you will file a petition. If you are a close family member to a US citizen, you must file Form I-130, Petition for an Alien Relative. However, individuals in a category with a widow(er) must complete Form I-360, Petition for Amerasian, Widow(er), or Special Immigrant.

Job-seekers applying for green cards through their employers must complete Form I-140 Immigrant Petition for an Alien Worker. Conversely, investors can start their application journey by filing Form I-526 Immigrant Petition by an Alien Entrepreneur.

Once you have filed the proper petition, you may proceed to check visa availability. The number of visas available varies depending on factors such as your application’s category and country of origin. For instance, if you have immediate relatives in the US, you may have a shorter waiting period than someone considered a distant family member.

Immigration Process Milestones

Green card applicants who correctly complete the application process will be contacted by the USCIS and be informed what to do next, including going for a biometrics appointment. During the biometric meeting, you will provide your fingerprints, an official photograph, and an electronic signature for background checking. 

Following your biometric appointment, you will get a letter from the USCIS informing you of a scheduled interview with an immigration officer. Your relative or employer may also be called to answer questions about your visa application. Remember to carry all vital documents, including passports, on the interview day.

After the interview, the USCIS will assess your application and give the final decision. Successful candidates will receive an email notifying them of the next steps to finalize their green card application. 

Navigating Challenges and Streamlining the Process

“The green card application procedure can be challenging, and even a small error can cause setbacks. Without professional guidance, you may waste a lot of resources and time on several failed attempts,” says Attorney Mario Godoy of  Godoy Law Office Immigration Lawyers. 

Fortunately, you can increase your chances of getting a green card quicker by working with an immigration attorney. These lawyers understand US immigration laws and can help you complete your application seamlessly, regardless of your category.

Source: Godoy Law Office, Illinois

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What Are White-Collar Crimes in Maryland?

/ Press Releases / December 21, 2024 / By

White-collar crimes refer to misrepresentation for financial benefits. In simpler words, it is called fraud. While the term “white-collar” might bring up images of businessmen in suits defrauding customers, it can be anyone. It could be the janitor of your office floor or the accountant in charge of auditing.

White-collar crimes are discovered long after the crime has been committed simply because it happens under the hood and well-planned. After all, people who commit these crimes are usually a part of the system. They understand how the system works, which gives them an edge in committing the crime.

It is not uncommon for innocent people to be bystanders in the fraud and will have to face criminal charges as a result. This is why it is important that you are aware of your rights and report foul play immediately. Nevertheless, if you are charged in connection with a white-collar crime, your first step is to see a lawyer. White-collar crimes are more grievous than standard criminal offenses, so get a lawyer as soon as possible.

Types of White-Collar Crimes

Here are some common types of white-collar crime:

  • Insurance fraud
  • Securities fraud
  • Tax fraud
  • Embezzlement

Tax Fraud

Tax fraud comprises intentionally attempting to evade taxes or to defraud the IRS. Tax fraud is usually committed by businesses and criminal entities, but individuals could also be caught in this fraud. Minor tax fraud in Maryland and other areas can be recognized by audit automation and reports of abuse. On the other hand, large-scale tax fraud usually spans reports and countries and involves scam corporations and offshore banking systems.

Securities Fraud

Securities fraud refers to fraud that is committed when trading commodities or stocks. Another way to put it is the manipulation of financial stock markets. There are several forms of securities fraud, some of which are advance-fee schemes, insider trading, high-yield investment fraud, and pyramid schemes. Due to the peculiarity of the industry, only the SEC and the FBI are involved in investigations of this sort. This means that securities fraud is a federal charge.

Insurance Fraud

Insurance fraud is making a false claim to insurance providers in a bid to get insurance funds. One common way is for insurance holders to fill fraudulent claims, citing false events. Another way to do this is called premium diversion, where insurance agents have writers as clients and refuse to pay their premiums.

Embezzlement

Embezzlement involves using funds or assets meant for a business for other uses. It is common knowledge that one has to be in a certain position to embezzle funds or make decisions that will support this cause. It is usually the access of the employee that gives them the power to make decisions that can affect the use of funds.

Money laundering

Money laundering refers to the concealment of an illegal money source by pushing it through several transactions in a bid to make the money look clean. People call it washing dirty cash clean, and it is usually done by shady entities such as terrorist organizations and gangs. There are numerous ways to wash the cash, but the outcome is the same – money laundering.

Conclusion

“If you have been accused of fraud, you need to get all the help you can to effectively handle the case,” says white collar lawyer Rammy Barbari.

You will need to know your options, how to appear in court, and how your schedule will be in forthcoming days. Remember, your attorney will represent your interests, so ensure you choose well.

Source: Price Benowitz LLP, Maryland

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