Green Card Application Process in Hawaii

1. What is the standard timeline to obtain a Green Card in Hawaii?

It typically takes between 8 to 12 months to get a Green Card in Hawaii. The average processing time for a Green Card through an employer-sponsored petition is 6 months, while it could take as long as 18 months if an adjustment of status application is filed. However, the timeline will vary depending on the specific circumstances and type of application.

2. How do I find out if I am eligible to apply for a Green Card in Hawaii?

To determine if you are eligible to apply for a Green Card in Hawaii, you should contact the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) office nearest to you. Through their website, you can find information on the various eligibility criteria for Green Card applicants as well as any forms or documents that may be required. Additionally, your local USCIS office can provide further assistance in determining your eligibility for a Green Card.

3. What specific documents do I need to provide to apply for a Green Card in Hawaii?

To apply for a Green Card in Hawaii, you will need to provide the following documents:

1. A valid passport
2. A completed Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status.
3. Several photographs that meet USCIS requirements.
4. Evidence of having a job or job offer in Hawaii (if applicable).
5. Evidence of lawful entry into the U.S. (if applicable).
6. Proof of sufficient financial resources to support yourself while in Hawaii (if applicable).
7. Police clearance letters from any country you have lived in for more than 6 months in the last 5 years (if applicable).
8. Evidence that you are admissible into the United States (if applicable).
9. Marriage certificate or evidence of other family relationships, if you are applying based on such a relationship (if applicable).
10. Birth certificate and evidence of U.S. citizenship for U.S. citizen applicants (if applicable).

4. What is the cost of filing a Green Card application in Hawaii?

The cost of filing a Green Card application in Hawaii varies depending on the type of Green Card being applied for. The filing fee for a Green Card application (Form I-485) is currently $1,130. There may also be additional fees associated with biometric services and premium processing, if applicable.

5. How do I schedule an appointment with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) office in Hawaii?

To schedule an appointment with the USCIS office in Hawaii, call 1-800-375-5283 or visit the USCIS website at www.uscis.gov. You can also schedule an appointment by visiting the USCIS office in person or by mail.

6. What are the steps to complete a Green Card Application in Hawaii?

The steps to complete a Green Card application in Hawaii are as follows:

1. Collect the documents. You will need to have the documents required to apply for a Green Card, such as a valid passport, birth certificate, proof of address, and other supporting documents.

2. Complete the Form I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status). This form is available online or can be requested from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) office in Honolulu.

3. Gather additional forms and documents as required by USCIS. These may include an Affidavit of Support, police clearance reports, evidence of marriage or divorce, and vaccination records.

4. Submit the paperwork to USCIS. Once your application is complete, mail it to USCIS with a money order or check for the appropriate fee. Make sure to include all supporting documents, as well as two passport-sized photographs.

5. Attend the interview. After your paperwork is received, USCIS will contact you with an appointment time for an interview at the Honolulu office of USCIS. At the interview, bring your original documents as well as any other documents requested by USCIS.

6. Receive your decision from USCIS. After your interview, you will either be approved for a Green Card or denied. If approved, you will receive your card in the mail within two weeks from when you are interviewed by USCIS.

7. How can I check the status of my Green Card application in Hawaii?

You can check the status of your Green Card application by visiting the USCIS website. Once you are on the website, select “Check My Case Status” and enter your application receipt number. This will provide you with the current status of your application.

8. How long does it take for a Green Card application to be processed in Hawaii?

The processing time for a Green Card application in Hawaii can vary depending on the type of application you are filing and the current workload of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Generally, processing times range from 6-12 months.

9. What are the different categories of Green Card eligibility in Hawaii?

The following categories of Green Card eligibility are available in Hawaii:

1. Family-Based Green Cards: Spouse, Parent, Grandparent, Unmarried Child Under 21, and Other Family Members.

2. Employment-Based Green Cards: Professionals with Advanced Degrees or Exceptional Ability, Skilled Workers, Professionals, and Other Workers.

3. Special Immigrants Green Cards: Religious Workers, Global Transferees (Employees of International Organizations), or Certain Iraq/Afghanistan Nationals.

4. Investment-Based Green Cards: Investors or Entrepreneurs in the United States.

5. Humanitarian-Based Green Cards: Refugees and Asylees, Amerasians, Victims of Human Trafficking, and Victims of Abuse.

6. Diversity Visa Lottery Program: Issued to people from countries with low rates of immigration to the US.

10. What are the requirements for a Green Card interview in Hawaii?

To attend an interview at a USCIS office in Hawaii, the following are required:

1. Two valid forms of government-issued ID (passport or driver’s license).

2. All required documents for the Green Card application.

3. A current Form I-693, Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record.

4. Evidence of any required fee payments.

5. Two photographs that meet USCIS requirements.

11. Can I apply for a Green Card if I am not currently living in Hawaii?

Yes, you can apply for a Green Card from outside of Hawaii. However, you must be able to demonstrate that you have ties to Hawaii, such as family or a job, if you wish to be approved. Additionally, you must be able to demonstrate that you meet all other eligibility requirements for a Green Card.

12. Is it possible to renew my Green Card in Hawaii?

Yes, it is possible to renew your Green Card in Hawaii. You can apply for a renewal by filing Form I-90 with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) either by mail or online.

13. What are the benefits of having a Green Card in Hawaii?

Benefits of having a Green Card in Hawaii include access to employment, travel, and the ability to apply for U.S. citizenship after five years of living in the United States; access to social services such as public education, Medicaid, and Social Security; and protection from deportation. Additionally, it allows for family reunification, access to financial aid and scholarships for higher education, and the ability to sponsor other family members for permanent residency.

14. Are there any restrictions on travelling while my Green Card application is being processed in Hawaii?

There are no restrictions on travelling while your Green Card application is being processed in Hawaii. However, you should be aware that if you leave the United States during the application process, your application may be denied or delayed.

15. What are the consequences of overstaying a Green Card in Hawaii?

If a Green Card holder overstays their visa in Hawaii, they may be subject to deportation and other consequences. They may be barred from re-entering the U.S. for a period of time, or even permanently. In addition, they may be subject to fines and criminal charges.

16. Can I have multiple Green Cards from different states, including Hawaii?

Yes, it is possible to have multiple Green Cards from different states, including Hawaii. However, it is not recommended because having multiple Green Cards can create confusion and complicate your immigration status.

17. How can I change my address on my Green Card application in Hawaii?

To change your address on your Green Card application, you must contact the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) office in Honolulu. You can call the USCIS at 1-800-375-5283 and speak with a representative, or you can visit the USCIS website and update your address electronically. Once the address change has been made, the USCIS will notify you of the confirmation.

18. Are there any fees associated with applying for a Green Card in Hawaii?

Yes. The filing fee for Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, is $750. There are additional filing fees for other forms such as Form I-131, Application for Travel Document, and Form I-864, Affidavit of Support.

19. Is there any assistance available for completing a Green Card application in Hawaii?

Yes, there is assistance available for completing a Green Card application in Hawaii. You can contact the Hawaii Immigrant Justice Center to get assistance. They offer free legal advice and representation to immigrants and their families. Additionally, you can contact Catholic Charities Hawaii, which offers free legal services to immigrants.

20. Are there any special requirements for applicants over 65 years old applying for a Green Card in Hawaii?

No, there are no special requirements for applicants over 65 years old applying for a Green Card in Hawaii. Applicants of any age must meet the eligibility requirements outlined by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services and must complete the application process.