Family-Based Green Cards in Illinois

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

The process of obtaining a Family-Based Green Card in Illinois can take anywhere from 6 to 12 months. The specific timeline will depend on the individual applicant’s situation and the processing times at U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services.

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

In order to obtain a Family-Based Green Card in Illinois, you will need to submit the following documents:
1. Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative;
2. Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status;
3. Two passport-style photos of yourself;
4. Marriage Certificate (if applicable);
5. Birth Certificates of any children;
6. Proof of financial support (Form I-864);
7. Evidence of your relationship with the petitioner, such as joint bank accounts, letters, photographs, and other documents; and
8. Proof of legal status in the U.S., such as a valid passport or visa.

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

Yes, Illinois allows for dual citizenship with a Family-Based Green Card. Individuals who have obtained a Family-Based Green Card and become permanent residents of the United States are eligible to apply for U.S. citizenship while retaining their original citizenship.

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

Yes, you must follow the same general process as those applying for a family-based green card from any other state. This includes submitting Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative) to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The form must be accompanied by supporting documentation such as proof of family relationship, evidence of financial support, and other documents as applicable. You may also need to attend an interview at the local USCIS office as part of the processing of your application.

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

The filing fees for a Family-Based Green Card in Illinois vary depending on the specific type of application being filed. Generally, the filing fee for an I-130 Petition for Alien Relative is $535. The filing fee for an I-485 Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status is $1,140. The total filing fee for both applications is $1,675.

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

Yes, it is possible to expedite the processing of a Family-Based Green Card in Illinois. The United States Department of State provides a few options to expedite the process. These include filing for Premium Processing, utilizing the National Visa Center (NVC) Expedite Request program, and filing an Interview Waiver.

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

No, the requirements for a Family-Based Green Card are the same regardless of which state you are applying from.

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

Once you have obtained your family-based green card, there are no restrictions on how long you can stay in Illinois. However, if you leave the United States for more than six months at a time, you may be required to obtain a re-entry permit to re-enter the country and maintain permanent resident status.

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

Yes, you can use public benefits such as Medicaid or food stamps with a Family-Based Green Card in Illinois. Eligibility for public benefits is determined based on the individual’s income, assets, and other financial factors.

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

Yes, it is possible to renew your family-based green card while in Illinois. However, you will need to meet certain criteria such as having maintained continuous residence in the United States, not having abandoned your residence in the U.S., and not having engaged in activities that may render you ineligible for the renewal. You will also need to submit a Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card along with the appropriate documentation and filing fee.

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

In order to become a U.S. citizen after receiving a Family-Based Green Card in Illinois, an individual must have resided in the United States as a lawful permanent resident (LPR) for at least five years or three years if they obtained their Green Card through marriage to a US citizen. In addition, they must meet all other eligibility requirements, including:

• Good moral character
• Demonstrate an understanding of the English language
• Pass the US government and history civics test
• Have been continuously present in the U.S. for at least half of the required period of residence
• Demonstrate knowledge of the principles and concepts of U.S. government
• Submit form N-400, Application for Naturalization
• Pay the application fee and biometric services fee
• Attend a naturalization interview with an immigration officer.

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

Yes, it is possible. With a valid Green Card, you can travel outside of the U.S. and return without having to apply for a visa. However, you should check the visa requirements of the country you will be visiting ahead of time to ensure that you will be able to enter.

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

Yes, it is possible to transfer a family-based green card to another family member in Illinois. For more information about the process and requirements, it is best to consult an immigration attorney.

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

With a Family-Based Green Card, individuals are allowed to work in Illinois without needing additional authorization. Eligible individuals can apply for any type of job and are eligible for the same protections as legal residents, such as minimum wage and overtime laws. Additionally, they may be eligible to receive certain benefits, such as social security and Medicare.

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

Yes. International students who have obtained a Family-Based Green Card in Illinois are eligible for in-state tuition only if they have continuously resided in Illinois for at least 12 months prior to enrolling in the institution. Additionally, these students must provide evidence of their status as a resident alien for tuition purposes, such as a valid Permanent Resident Card.

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

You can check the status of your Family-Based Green Card application in Illinois by visiting the USCIS website and entering your receipt number. You can also call the National Customer Service Center at 1-800-375-5283 to inquire about your application status. Additionally, you can contact your local USCIS office to inquire about your application.

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

No, there are no restrictions on how much money you can make with a family-based green card in Illinois. However, you must comply with all other federal and state laws regarding income, taxation, and labor.

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

Yes, the Illinois Department of Human Services offers assistance to families and individuals applying for a family-based Green Card. The department provides information and resources, such as application assistance, screening assistance for refugees and asylees, Immigration Medical Exams, and more.

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

The rights and privileges you are granted with a family-based green card from Illinois depend on the type of green card that you have been granted. Generally, you will have the right to live and work in the United States permanently, and to travel freely in and out of the country. You may also be eligible for certain government benefits such as Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid. You may also be eligible to apply for citizenship after a certain period of time. You may also be eligible to sponsor certain family members for lawful permanent residence in the United States.

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

Yes, you may be eligible to apply for U.S. citizenship if you have held a green card for at least five years, have been physically present in the U.S. for at least 30 months of the five years prior to filing your application, and have been living in the same state as your green card was issued for the past three months prior to filing your application. You will also need to demonstrate continuous good moral character and meet all other requirements for naturalization.