For some people, the path to a green card is a smooth one -- everything gets approved, and in a timely manner. All too often, however, people find that the path to a green card is strewn with rocks; in other words, they encounter long waits, lost files or checks, requests for more documentation, and more. And in the end, their green card (lawful permanent residence) may be denied altogether. Find out the common reasons for such issues, and what you can do to deal with them and successfully claim your U.S. green card.
The challenging process of contacting a U.S. government office regarding immigration processing.
Learn about some of the most common things that might jeopardize your ability to get a green card.
What to do when a visa or green card is denied.
Learn why U.S. immigration law might mandate that you be denied entry to the United States and how to avoid being turned away.
How to overcome a health-based ground of inadmissibility when applying for lawful permanent residence by asking the U.S. government to overlook it in your case.
U.S. law penalizes foreign nationals who've stayed unlawfully in the country with a possible 3- or 10-year bar on reentry.
Attempting to enter the U.S. without permission after a past deportation or one year's total stay in the U.S. results in permanent inadmissibility.
Finding a joint sponsor, and other ways to compensate for the U.S. petitioner's relatively low income when sponsoring an immigrant.
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At Nolo, we prioritize quality and transparency because we know how important reliable legal information is to our readers. Our information is meticulously researched, regularly updated, and written in plain English by our experienced writers and editors. Learn more about our editorial standards.