1. What is a Green Card Registry?
A Green Card Registry is a publicly available database that contains information about immigrants who have been approved for permanent residence in the United States. The registry includes information such as the applicant’s name, date of birth, country of origin, and other demographic information. The registry also includes the applicant’s Green Card number, which can be used to verify their immigration status.
2. How do I apply for a Green Card through Registry?
You can apply for a Green Card through Registry by submitting Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). You must also provide evidence of your continuous residence in the United States since your initial arrival, as well as other evidence such as birth certificates, passports, and proof of other immigration status.
3. What is the eligibility criteria for Green Card through Registry?
The eligibility criteria for Green Card through Registry is as follows:
-You were physically present in the United States since before January 1, 1972.
-You have been a person of good moral character since you arrived in the United States.
-You are not inadmissible or deportable under any provision of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA).
-You are not ineligible for naturalization under any provision of the INA.
4. How long does it take to get a Green Card through Registry?
Generally, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) estimates that it will take 4-6 months to receive a Green Card through the Registry. However, the processing time can vary depending on the caseload at USCIS, the applicant’s individual circumstances, or any requests for additional evidence.
5. How much does it cost to apply for Green Card through Registry?
Applicants who are eligible for the Registry program must pay a $1,010 fee to apply for a Green Card. This fee includes the application fee, biometric services fee, and fraud prevention and detection fee.
6. What documents do I need to provide in order to apply for a Green Card through Registry?
In order to apply for a Green Card through Registry, you will need to provide documentation establishing that you have been living continuously in the United States since before January 1, 1972. This may include, but is not limited to: proof of employment in the U.S., school records, medical records, tax records, and copies of leases, mortgages, or utility bills. You will also need to provide evidence of your identity such as a passport or birth certificate.
7. What is the difference between Green Card through Adjustment of Status and Green Card through Registry?
Adjustment of Status involves a green card application that is filed with USCIS while an applicant resides in the United States. Through this process, applicants can apply for a green card without having to leave the United States.
Green Card through registry is for those immigrants who first entered the United States before January 1, 1972, and have continuously resided there ever since. These applicants must show proof of their residence in the United States prior to that date.
8. What if I have criminal convictions or violations on my record when applying for Green Card through Registry?
It depends on the type of conviction and violation. In most cases, criminal convictions and violations will affect your eligibility for a Green Card through registry. You should consult with an experienced immigration attorney to determine what the impact may be for your particular case.
9.What are the different ways to renew a Green Card obtained through Registry?
There are three ways to renew a Green Card obtained through Registry:
1. Submit Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card
2. Submit a Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence (Form I-751)
3. Request a Waiver of the Removal of Conditions on Residence (Form I-751)
10. Is there a specific age requirement to apply for a Green Card through Registry?
No, there is not a specific age requirement to apply for a Green Card through Registry. However, applicants must be at least 18 years old to apply for U.S. lawful permanent residence.
11. Is the medical examination required for Green Card through Registry?
No. The medical examination is not required for Green Card through Registry.
12. How many years do I have to remain in the US in order to keep my Green Card obtained through Registry?
You do not need to remain in the United States to maintain your Green Card through Registry. Once you receive the Green Card, you can leave and reenter the United States at any time.
13. Can I obtain US citizenship with a Green Card obtained through Registry?
No, you cannot obtain US citizenship with a Green Card obtained through Registry. You must be eligible for a Green Card through other paths in order to obtain US citizenship. Those paths include family-based immigration, employment-based immigration, the Diversity Visa Lottery, or as a refugee or asylee.
14. Can I work in the US with a Green Card obtained through Registry?
Yes, you can work in the US with a Green Card obtained through Registry. It is important to note, however, that you must still be eligible for an employment-based visa in order to obtain authorization to work in the US.
15.Can I travel outside the US with a Green Card obtained through Registry?
Yes, you can travel outside the US with a Green Card obtained through Registry. However, you should make sure to bring your Green Card with you and to plan for any additional documents that may be required for your destination.
16.Are there any restrictions on the type of employment that can be held with a Green Card obtained through Registry?
Yes, there are restrictions on the type of employment that can be held with a Green Card obtained through Registry. The Green Card holder must continue to work in the same occupation or a closely related occupation, as stated on the original application for Registry. The holder may not change their occupation without first obtaining a new Green Card or an adjustment of status.
17.Is it possible to add family members after obtaining a Green Card through Registry?
Yes, it is possible to bring family members to the United States after obtaining a Green Card through Registry. However, the procedure is slightly different than the one used to obtain the Green Card. To add family members to a Green Card holder’s status, the Green Card holder must file a petition for them with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
18.Do I have to re-apply for a new Green Card when I change my name or address after getting one through Registry?
Yes, you must re-apply for a new Green Card when you change your name or address after receiving one through Registry. The US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) requires that all Green Card holders keep their information up to date.
19.What if I lose my Green Card obtained through Registry before it expires?
If you lose your Green Card, you should immediately contact U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to report the loss. You may be required to fill out Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card, and pay the applicable fee.
20.How long is the validity period of a Green Card obtained through Registry?
The Registry route grants permanent residency status to individuals who have lived in the United States for at least five years. This card is valid for ten years from the date of issue, after which it must be renewed.