1. How long does the process of obtaining a Family-Based Green Card take in Massachusetts?

The average processing time for a Family-Based Green Card in Massachusetts is approximately 5 to 8 months from the filing of the I-130 petition to the issuance of the green card.

2. What documents do I need to submit in order to obtain a Family-Based Green Card in Massachusetts?

In order to obtain a Family-Based Green Card in Massachusetts, you will need to submit the following documents:

1. I-130, Petition for Alien Relative.
2. I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status.
3. Evidence of Relationship.
4. Birth Certificates.
5. Passport Photos of all Applicants.
6. A Medical Examination.
7. Proof of Legal Entry into the US (If Applicable).
8. Document Affidavit of Support Form I-864 (If Applicable).
9. An Interview at the USCIS Field Office (if Applicable).

3. Does Massachusetts allow for dual citizenship with a Family-Based Green Card?

Yes, Massachusetts allows for dual citizenship with a Family-Based Green Card. It is important to note that the United States does not have any special laws or regulations regarding dual citizenship, so the rules and regulations of the country in which you are applying for dual citizenship would determine if you are eligible or not.

4. Are there any special procedures I need to follow if I want to apply for a Family-Based Green Card from Massachusetts?

Yes, you must follow the same steps as any other green card applicant, however you may need to provide additional evidence to demonstrate your relationship with the petitioner. Additionally, if you are applying for a Family-Based Green Card through marriage, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) requires that you and your spouse be interviewed together by an immigration officer. You may also be required to show proof of your legal marriage, financial documents to demonstrate the financial stability of both you and your spouse, and proof that neither of you is inadmissible to the U.S.

5. What is the filing fee for a Family-Based Green Card in Massachusetts?

The filing fee for a family-based green card in Massachusetts is $535. This fee includes the $325 application fee and the $220 biometrics fee.

6. Is it possible to expedite the processing of a Family-Based Green Card in Massachusetts?

Yes, it is possible to expedite the processing of a Family-Based Green Card in Massachusetts. The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) offers an expedited processing service called “premium processing” for certain immigration benefits. This service guarantees processing within 15 calendar days after the application is received by USCIS. Applicants based in Massachusetts can apply for premium processing after filing their family-based green card application.

7. Does Massachusetts have different requirements to obtain a Family-Based Green Card than other states?

No, the requirements for obtaining a family-based green card are the same in all states. However, the processing time and application procedures may vary depending on the state in which you are applying.

8. Are there any restrictions on how long I can stay in Massachusetts with a Family-Based Green Card?

No. Once you are approved for a Family-Based Green Card, you can stay in Massachusetts indefinitely. However, you must remain in the U.S. and comply with all immigration laws and regulations in order to maintain your lawful permanent resident status.

9. Can I use public benefits such as Medicaid or food stamps with a Family-Based Green Card in Massachusetts?

Yes. With a family-based green card, you can use public assistance programs such as Medicaid and food stamps in Massachusetts. However, you must meet the eligibility criteria for these programs and may be subject to different rules than those who are citizens or permanent residents.

10. Is it possible to renew my Family-Based Green Card while in Massachusetts?

Yes, it is possible to renew your Family-Based Green Card while in Massachusetts. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) allows for immigrants to apply for renewal of their green card up to 6 months prior to the expiration date. To apply, immigrants must fill out form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card, along with the required documents and fees.

11. What are the requirements for becoming a U.S. citizen after receiving a Family-Based Green Card in Massachusetts?

In order to become a U.S. citizen after receiving a Family-Based Green Card in Massachusetts, the applicant must meet certain eligibility requirements. These requirements include being at least 18 years old, having held a U.S. green card for at least five years, being able to read, write, and speak English, having knowledge of U.S. history and government, being of good moral character, and having been physically present in the U.S. for at least half of the five-year period of time. The applicant must also have maintained continuous residency in the U.S., have paid all taxes due, and not have committed any crimes or violated immigration laws during the five-year period.

12. Is it possible to travel outside of the U.S. with a Family-Based Green Card from Massachusetts?

Yes, it is possible to travel outside of the U.S. with a Family-Based Green Card from Massachusetts. However, it is important to note that there are certain restrictions and requirements that must be met prior to traveling abroad. In addition, a valid passport from the country of origin is required to enter and exit the U.S., and travelers must also obtain a Re-entry Permit before leaving the country.

13. Does Massachusetts allow for the transfer of a Family-Based Green Card to another family member?

Yes, Massachusetts allows for the transfer of a family-based green card to another family member. The process is known as a “follow-to-join” application and can be done through U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

14. What types of employment are allowed with a Family-Based Green Card in Massachusetts?

With a Family-Based Green Card in Massachusetts, you are allowed to work in any type of job. You do not need to obtain any special permits or visas to do so. The US Department of Homeland Security allows Family-Based Green Card holders to work in any private, public, or government job. Additionally, you may also be eligible to become a student at any college or university across the country.

15. Are there any special rules for international students who have obtained a Family-Based Green Card in Massachusetts?

Yes. International students who have obtained a Family-Based Green Card in Massachusetts must follow certain special rules, including providing proof of immigration status, filing an annual state income tax return, and following the laws of the state regarding residency status. Additionally, international students must maintain a valid student visa and must be enrolled in an accredited educational institution in Massachusetts to remain eligible for a Family-Based Green Card.

16. How can I check the status of my Family-Based Green Card application in Massachusetts?

You can check the status of your family-based green card application in Massachusetts by logging into your USCIS account, calling the USCIS contact center at 1-800-375-5283, or checking the status online at uscis.gov/mycase.

17. Are there any restrictions on how much money I can make with a Family-Based Green Card in Massachusetts?

Yes. As a green card holder, you will be subject to the same income restrictions and taxes as other citizens and permanent residents. Depending on your filing status, your income may be subject to certain limits to qualify for certain tax credits, deductions, and other benefits.

18. Does Massachusetts offer any special assistance or services for those applying for a Family-Based Green Card?

Yes, Massachusetts does offer special assistance and services for those applying for a Family-Based Green Card. Massachusetts has several organizations that provide assistance with the application process, including legal assistance, resources and advice on how to prepare for the interview, and language services. Some of the organizations which offer this type of assistance are Catholic Charities Legal Immigration Services, East Boston Immigrant Services, and Jewish Family Services of Metrowest.

19. What rights and privileges do I have with a Family-Based Green Card from Massachusetts?

A Family-Based Green Card from Massachusetts will grant you permanent lawful residence in the United States. This means that you will be able to live, work, and study anywhere in the United States, and seek employment with any employer. You will also be eligible to apply for naturalization and become a US citizen after five years. With a green card, you may also travel in and out of the US and have access to certain social services, including medical care and education.

20. Can I apply for citizenship after receiving a Family-Based Green Card from Massachusetts?

Yes, you can apply for citizenship after receiving a Family-Based Green Card from Massachusetts. To be eligible for US citizenship, you must meet the following criteria: have held a green card for at least 5 years, have been physically present in the US for at least 30 months of the previous 5 years, have maintained continuous residence in the US, and pass an English and civics test. For more information on the process of applying for citizenship, please visit the USCIS website.