Family-Based Green Cards in Indiana

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

The process of obtaining a Family-Based Green Card in Indiana will vary depending on the specific circumstances of the applicants. Generally, the process can take anywhere from 6 months to several years. The process can also be delayed due to backlogs in processing times.

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

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

1. A completed Form I-130 Petition for Alien Relative
2. Evidence of your relationship to the U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident sponsor, such as a birth or marriage certificate
3. Proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent residence status of the sponsor
4. A copy of your passport bio page
5. A completed Form I-485 Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status
6. Two passport-style photographs
7. Recent medical examination results from a designated civil surgeon
8. Evidence of financial support (Form I-864 Affidavit of Support and any other supporting documents)
9. Proof of payment for all filing fees and applicable biometrics fees (such as fingerprints)
10. Any additional documents requested by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

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

Yes, Indiana allows for dual citizenship with a Family-Based Green Card. The United States permits dual citizenship so as long as the individual meets all of the requirements of both countries in terms of residency, taxes, and other obligations.

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

Yes. You must complete the Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative; submit any applicable supporting documents; pay the filing fee; submit fingerprint biometrics; and attend the green card interview at the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services field office in Indiana.

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

The filing fee for a Family-Based Green Card in Indiana is $535.

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

Yes, it is possible to expedite the processing of a Family-Based Green Card in Indiana. Depending on the individual situation, an individual may be able to file a motion to expedite their application or contact the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) Indianapolis Field Office directly to inquire about expediting their application.

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

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

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

No. Once you obtain your Family-Based Green Card, you can stay in Indiana for as long as you wish as long as you comply with U.S. Immigration laws.

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

Yes, you may be eligible to use certain public benefits with a family-based green card in Indiana. Eligibility for public assistance and the types of benefits you are eligible to receive depends on your immigration status and your household’s income. You should contact your local Department of Social Services to find out what benefits you are eligible for.

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

Yes, it is possible to renew your Family-Based Green Card while in Indiana. You will need to submit a Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card, to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The form and additional information can be found on the USCIS website.

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

To become a U.S. citizen after receiving a Family-Based Green Card in Indiana, you must meet the following requirements:

1. You must have resided in the United States for at least five years as a lawful permanent resident (LPR).
2. You must have established continuous residence in the United States for at least 30 months prior to filing your application.
3. You must have been physically present in the United States for at least 30 months out of the five years prior to filing your application.
4. You must demonstrate good moral character during the five-year period preceding the filing of your application.
5. You must demonstrate knowledge of the English language, U.S. history, and government structure by passing an exam administered by USCIS (U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services).
6. You must be eligible for citizenship based on your age, marital status, and other factors as determined by USCIS.

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

Yes, it is possible to travel outside of the U.S. with a Family-Based Green Card from Indiana. However, you may need to obtain a re-entry permit or a returning resident visa before leaving the United States in order to return with your green card.

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

Yes, Indiana does allow for the transfer of a family-based green card to another family member. The process for transferring a green card is known as “follow-to-join,” and requires the main applicant to file an I-824 form with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

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

A Family-Based Green Card holder in Indiana may be employed in any field for which they are qualified, as long as they obtain the necessary employment authorization from the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Examples of this include applying for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) or an Advanced Parole Document, if necessary.

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

Yes, there are special rules for international students who have obtained a Family-Based Green Card in Indiana. International students who have obtained a Family-Based Green Card in Indiana are eligible for in-state tuition and financial aid at Indiana’s public universities. In addition, international students are not required to take the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or the Test of English for International Communication (TOEIC) to gain admission to Indiana’s public universities.

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

You should contact the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) office that is processing your application. You can check the status of your application online by visiting the USCIS website, or you can call their customer service line at 1-800-375-5283.

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

Yes, there are certain restrictions on how much money you can make with a Family-Based Green Card in Indiana. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security has established an annual income level of 125% of the federal poverty guideline for the applicable household size, known as the “means-tested threshold.” Households with annual income exceeding that threshold are not eligible for a Family-Based Green Card. Additionally, when filing certain applications for a Family-Based Green Card, the applicant may be required to provide proof of steady employment and/or income.

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

Yes, Indiana offers a variety of assistance and services for those applying for a Family-Based Green Card, including access to free or low-cost legal services, guidance on filing forms, and financial assistance. Indiana also has a network of organizations and individuals experienced in family-based immigration law and procedures.

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

A Family-Based Green Card from Indiana grants you the following rights and privileges:
– You can live and work permanently in the U.S.
– You can travel freely in and out of the U.S.
– You can apply for U.S. citizenship after five years (if eligible).
– You can petition for certain family members to come to the U.S.
– You are protected by all laws of the U.S. and the state of Indiana.
– You can apply for social security benefits and other government programs.

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

Yes, you may be eligible to apply for naturalization after you have held a green card for at least five years. In order to qualify, you must meet certain requirements, such as having good moral character, passing an English and civics test, and having continuous residence in the U.S. You must also have been physically present in the U.S. for at least half of those five years.