Embarking on your journey to the United States is exciting and life-changing. At Namona, we specialize in family immigration law and are here to guide you every step of the way. Let's break down the U.S. immigration process so you know exactly what to expect.

Understanding U.S. Immigration

Moving to the United States of America involves meeting certain requirements, paying government fees, and having your application approved. While it might seem complex and costly, understanding the basics can make the process smoother.

Immigrant vs. Nonimmigrant Visas

Immigrant Visas (Green Cards): These allow you to live and work permanently in the U.S. Green cards can be renewed indefinitely and provide a pathway to U.S. citizenship.

Nonimmigrant Visas: These are temporary visas for visiting, working, or studying. While they can be renewed, they don't offer a path to permanent residency.

Types of Immigrant Visas

To settle permanently in the U.S., you need to qualify for a specific type of green card. Here are the main categories:

Family-Based Green Cards

These are for relatives of U.S. citizens and green card holders, including:

• Spouses and widows/widowers

• Children

• Parents

• Siblings

Employment-Based Green Cards

These are for individuals who bring valuable skills or investments to the U.S., categorized into:

• EB-1: Individuals with extraordinary abilities

• EB-2: Professionals with advanced degrees or exceptional abilities

• EB-3: Skilled workers, professionals, and unskilled workers

• EB-4: Special immigrants like religious workers and international organization employees

• EB-5: Investors who create jobs in the U.S.

Humanitarian Green Cards

Issued to refugees, asylees, and victims of trafficking, crime, or abuse. Legal assistance is often needed for these applications.

Diversity Lottery Green Cards

Each year, up to 50,000 visas are awarded randomly to applicants from countries with low rates of U.S. immigration.

Longtime-Resident Green Cards

For individuals who have lived in the U.S. since before January 1, 1972, without leaving the country.

Other Green Cards

Issued to specific groups such as media professionals, religious workers, and certain nationals from Afghanistan, Iraq, Cuba, and Canada.

Applying for a Green Card

Basic Requirements

For most green cards, you'll need:

• A background check

• A medical exam

Specific visas have additional requirements.

Family-Based Green Card Requirements

• Close relationship with a U.S. citizen or green card holder

• Financial support from a sponsor with an income of at least 125% of the federal poverty guidelines

Employment-Based Green Card Requirements

• Sponsorship by a U.S. employer (for most categories)

• Proof of extraordinary skills or significant investments (for EB-1 and EB-5 categories)

Costs and Wait Times

Costs

• Family-Based Green Card: $3005 (U.S. applicants), $1540 (international applicants)

• Employment-Based Green Card: Around $2330 for applicants, up to $10,000 including employer fees

Wait Times

Wait times vary based on visa category and individual circumstances. Marriage green cards typically take months, while other family green cards can take years. Employment-based green cards generally process within a year.

The Application Process

1. Petition Filing: Your sponsor files a petition (Form I-130 for family-based, Form I-140 for employment-based).

2. USCIS Review: USCIS reviews and approves the petition.

3. Green Card Application: Submit Form I-485 (if in the U.S.) or Form DS-260 (if abroad).

4. Biometrics and Medical Exam: Complete these as part of your application.

5. Interview: Attend an in-person interview.

6. Approval: Receive your green card via mail (if in the U.S.) or a visa to travel to the U.S. (if abroad).

Final Steps and Beyond

After obtaining your green card, you're free to live and work in the U.S. Remember to renew your green card every 10 years. After 3-5 years, you may be eligible to apply for U.S. citizenship.

Avoiding Common Pitfalls

• Be honest about your intentions when arriving on a nonimmigrant visa.

• Avoid visa overstays and unlawful presence.

• Stay alert to immigration scams.

• Keep informed about changes in immigration laws.

Immigrating to the United States can be challenging, but with Namona by your side, you'll have expert guidance every step of the way. We're dedicated to making your family's immigration journey as smooth and successful as possible. Contact us today to start your journey!