Check who is authorized to advise you, understand the proposed work, and prepare a useful immigration history before a consultation.
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A guide to U.S. permanent residence
Understand the
green card
process.
From the first eligibility questions to life after approval, get familiar with the documents, decisions, and people involved.
Find your starting point10 focused guides. Plain English.
The guide library
Start with
your question.
Open a topic for a quick overview, then read the full guide.
Keep the stages separate.A petition, an application, and an approval can mean different things at different points in the process.
01Getting orientedHow do I choose qualified legal help?
02Eligibility & petitionsWhat does a family petition actually establish?
Separate the family petition from permanent residence and organize evidence of the qualifying relationship.
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03Eligibility & petitionsWhere does employment-based planning begin?
Understand why the proposed role, qualifications, employer’s responsibilities, and visa availability need separate review.
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04The application processAdjustment of status or consular processing?
Distinguish a U.S.-based residence application from immigrant visa processing abroad and identify the questions that decide the route.
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05The application processWhat does the Visa Bulletin tell me?
Understand the purpose of filing and final-action charts without turning a monthly cutoff into a guaranteed timeline.
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06Documents & preparationWhat should a financial sponsor understand?
Organize household, income, tax, and domicile information while recognizing that financial sponsorship carries legal obligations.
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07Documents & preparationWhich documents need extra preparation?
Check issuing authorities, translation requirements, record differences, and the authorized medical-exam process before submitting evidence.
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08Documents & preparationHow should I prepare for an interview?
Prepare accurate answers and current documents, and understand why a notice or follow-up request matters more than a generic checklist.
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09After approvalWhat happens with a two-year conditional card?
Distinguish removing conditions from routine card renewal and organize the record for joint filing or an individual review.
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10After approvalWhat should I track after receiving a green card?
Keep proof of permanent residence organized and distinguish card replacement, conditional residence, international travel, and citizenship planning.
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Before you seek advice
Your history matters
as much as the form.
Bring prior immigration notices, entry and travel records, and a short timeline to your consultation. Flag deadlines and explain changes in family, work, or residence.
Prepare for a legal consultation