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

The exact timeline of obtaining a Family-Based Green Card in New Mexico can vary depending on several factors, such as the type of family relationship and whether or not an immigrant is already in the United States. Generally, the process can take anywhere from six months to several years to complete.

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

In order to apply for a family-based green card in New Mexico, you must submit the following documents:

1. Application Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative.
2. Proof of US Citizen or Legal Permanent Resident Status of the Sponsor.
3. Birth Certificate of the Family Member Being Sponsored.
4. Marriage Certificate (if applicable).
5. Divorce or Death Certificate of Previous Spouse (if applicable).
6. Proof of Relationship between Sponsor and Applicant.
7. Financial Documentation Showing the Sponsor’s Ability to Support the Applicant at 125% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.
8. Medical Examination Report.
9. Two Passport-Style Photographs of Applicant.
10. Copy of Applicant’s Valid Passport or Other Government-Issued Identification Document.
11. Evidence of Payment of Required Fees.

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

Yes, New Mexico does allow dual citizenship with a family-based green card. According to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), dual citizenship is allowed in the United States for individuals who hold both a U.S. Green Card and the citizenship of their foreign country.

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

Yes, if you are applying for a family-based green card from New Mexico, you will need to follow certain procedures to ensure that your application is processed correctly. This includes submitting the necessary forms and documents, attending an interview at the nearest U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) office, and paying the relevant fees. You may also be asked to provide proof of your relationship with your family members in the form of birth certificates, marriage certificates, etc. Additionally, if you are from a country where English is not the primary language, you may need to provide certified translations of your documents.

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

The filing fee for a family-based green card in New Mexico is $535. This fee includes the Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative and Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status.

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

Yes, it is possible to expedite the processing of a Family-Based Green Card in New Mexico. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) offers an expedited processing service called “expedited processing” for certain types of applications. If a person qualifies for this service, it can significantly reduce the time it takes to receive a decision on their application. USCIS also offers fee waivers for applicants who meet certain criteria.

7. Does New Mexico 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 U.S. states.

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

Yes. In most cases, individuals with a Family-Based Green Card can stay in New Mexico indefinitely as long as they maintain lawful permanent resident status. The length of stay is limited by the expiration date on the card.

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

Yes, you can use public benefits such as Medicaid or food stamps with a Family-Based Green Card in New Mexico. However, you must meet all applicable eligibility requirements in order to receive these benefits.

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

Yes, it is possible to renew your Family-Based Green Card while in New Mexico. You will need to fill out Form I-90 and submit the required documents, such as a copy of your Green Card, a photo, and the application fee. Once the form and documents are received, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services will review your application and make a decision on whether to approve or deny your request.

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

To become a citizen, you must meet the following requirements:

1. Be 18 years of age or older
2. Reside in the United States as a Legal Permanent Resident for at least 5 years
3. Have continuous residence in the United States during your five year period
4. Show good moral character during this five year period
5. Pass a test on U.S. history and government
6. Speak, read, and write in English
7. Take an Oath of Allegiance to the United States
8. File an application for naturalization
9. Appear for an interview with USCIS

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

Yes, it is possible to travel outside of the U.S. with a Family-Based Green Card from New Mexico. However, you should always check with the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) for the most up-to-date travel requirements before traveling abroad.

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

Yes, New Mexico does allow for the transfer of a Family-Based Green Card to another family member. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) allows for certain eligible family members to transfer a green card to a close family member. This is referred to as “immigrant visa portability”. The process involves filing an I-824 form with USCIS.

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

In New Mexico, a Family-Based Green Card holder may work in any type of employment authorized by federal law. This includes salaried or hourly employment in both the public and private sectors, as well as self-employment and freelance work. The Family-Based Green Card holder must first obtain the appropriate authorization from the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) before beginning employment in the United States.

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

No, there are no special rules for international students who have obtained a Family-Based Green Card in New Mexico. International students in New Mexico are subject to the same legal requirements and restrictions as all other residents of the state.

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

You can check the status of your Family-Based Green Card application in New Mexico by contacting the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) Field Office in Albuquerque. You can contact the office by phone at 1-800-375-5283 or in person at the USCIS Field Office located at 4001 Indian School Road NE, Suite 100, Albuquerque, NM 87110. Additionally, you can also check the status of your application online at the USCIS website using your application receipt number.

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

There are no restrictions on how much money you can make with a Family-Based Green Card in New Mexico. However, if you receive public benefits such as food stamps, Medicaid, or Supplemental Security Income, your income must meet certain requirements.

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

Yes, New Mexico offers specialized assistance or services for those applying for a Family-Based Green Card. The New Mexico Immigrant Law Center (NMILC) provides free legal assistance to immigrants in need, including those who are seeking a Family-Based Green Card. The center also offers educational programs and workshops that provide information about the process of applying for legal immigration status. NMILC also provides advocacy for immigrants in need.

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

As a green card holder from New Mexico, you are granted the rights and privileges of a lawful permanent resident in the United States. This includes the right to live and work in the United States permanently, travel in and out of the country, petition for certain family members to join you, and apply for U.S. citizenship after five years of residence (or three years if you have a U.S. citizen spouse). Additionally, you may access government benefits such as Social Security, Medicare, food stamps, and unemployment insurance. You will also be eligible to receive some types of federal financial aid for college tuition.

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

Yes, you can apply for citizenship after receiving a Family-Based Green Card from New Mexico. Generally, you must have had the Green Card for at least five years before you can apply for citizenship. However, if you obtained your Green Card through marriage to a U.S. citizen, you can apply for citizenship after three years.