Guides
Green Cards
Timelines, eligibility, and process guides for family-based permanent residence.
Need representation? See our family-based green card services.
How Long Does the I-130 Process Take?
Current I-130 processing times run roughly 9 to 15 months — but the petition is only one stage. Here is the full timeline, stage by stage.
July 28, 202610 min read
What Happens at a Green Card Interview
Most green card interviews last twenty minutes and confirm what is already in the file. Here is what happens in the room, what to bring, and how cases go sideways.
July 28, 20269 min read
Green Card Categories: Which One Fits Your Situation
Almost every green card comes through family, work, protection, or the diversity lottery. A map of the categories, and how to find yours.
July 28, 20269 min read
Employment Authorization While Your I-485 Is Pending
Filing the I-485 unlocks a work permit that covers you during the wait. How to get it, keep it valid, and avoid the traps around travel and job changes.
July 28, 20269 min read
Common Reasons Green Card Applications Get Denied
Most green card denials trace to a handful of predictable causes, and most of those were visible before filing. The list, and what happens after a denial.
July 28, 20269 min read
Priority Dates and the Visa Bulletin, Explained Simply
Your priority date is your place in line; the visa bulletin is the monthly scoreboard. How the system works, chart by chart, without the jargon.
July 28, 20269 min read