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| URL | https://sverdlofflaw.com/green-card-application-process/ |
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| Content | |
| Meta Title | Sverdloff Law Group | Green Card Lawyers Chicago | Chicago Green Card Attorney |
| Meta Description | Applying for a Permanent Resident Card, or green card, can be difficult and confusing. A Chicago green card attorney from Sverdloff Law Group can assist you. |
| Meta Canonical | null |
| Boilerpipe Text | Many foreign people dream of becoming legal U.S. residents, but the process can be difficult. Below is a description of the typical steps an applicant will face when applying for a Permanent Resident Card, also known as a
green card
. While this overview can be helpful, no two cases are ever the same, and speaking with a
skilled immigration attorney
is highly recommended.
1. Request Consultation
It may be best to
consult with an immigration attorney
before you begin your application. Errors and misunderstandings during the immigration process can delay or prevent you from obtaining a green card. A skilled attorney can advise you on how to avoid costly mistakes.
2. Determine Eligibility
There are five basic categories of eligibility for a green card, which vary based on your circumstances and reason for entering the U.S. This can include sponsorship from a family member or employer,
seeking asylum
due to persecution in your country of origin, or several other scenarios. A knowledgeable immigration attorney can help determine your eligibility and which type of application is most appropriate for you.
3. Open Case with Sverdloff Law Group
It is possible to file your immigration paperwork without an attorney but having someone on your side who understands the process and can help you prepare for what comes next can be extremely valuable. Our attorneys will explain the fees associated with your case and our payment options before you commit to working with us.
4. Determine Application Process
If you are already in the United States when applying for a green card, you will need to use a process known as
adjustment of status
. For applicants who live outside the U.S., the application will be processed by a United States Department of State consulate. This is known as
consular processing.
5. Prepare Necessary Documents
Demonstrating your eligibility to
receive a green card
will require you to provide several documents to the U.S. government. Many of these can be submitted online, but some cannot. Your lawyer can assist you in determining which evidence to provide and how to submit it.
6. File Petition
Most green card applicants will start the process by filing an
immigrant petition
. This is normally filed by a family member or employer if you are living outside the U.S. Once this is processed, a visa number will be issued. For some immediate relatives of U.S. citizens, a visa number is not needed.
7. Apply for Green Card
Once the immigrant petition is approved, and a visa number is available if needed, the next step is normally to register for permanent residency or adjustment of status by filing Form I-485. In some specific cases, a different form may be used.
8. Biometrics Appointment
You will be notified by email that a biometrics interview is needed. This will take place at an Application Support Center and involves collecting fingerprints, photos, and sometimes other data to confirm your identity and complete security checks.
9. Green Card Interview
After reviewing your application, USCIS officials will decide if an in-person interview is necessary. You will be notified of the time and location, and at the interview, you will be required to present originals of all documents submitted with the Form I-485 application.
10. Approval!
Finally, a written decision will be issued, and if approved, you will receive your green card soon after. If the application is denied, you will be informed of why and whether or not you may appeal the decision.
Sverdloff Law Group is Here to Help
If you or a loved one is planning to apply for a green card, our skilled immigration attorney can help.
Contact Sverdloff Law Group
today to schedule a consultation and learn more. |
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- [Costs and Processing Times for Citizenship](https://sverdlofflaw.com/immigration-services/costs-and-processing-times-for-citizenship/)
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- [Requirements for Family-Based Visas](https://sverdlofflaw.com/immigration-services/family-based-immigration/)
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- [Consular Processing](https://sverdlofflaw.com/immigration-services/consular-processing/)
- [Deportation & Removal Defense](https://sverdlofflaw.com/immigration-services/deportation-and-removal-defense/)
- [EB-2 NIW](https://sverdlofflaw.com/immigration-services/eb-2-niw-self-petitions/)
- [I-140 Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker](https://sverdlofflaw.com/immigration-services/i-140-immigrant-petition-for-alien-worker/)
- [I-601 Waiver for Misrepresentation or Fraud](https://sverdlofflaw.com/immigration-services/i-601-waiver-for-misrepresentation-or-fraud/)
- [I-862 Notice to Appear (NTA)](https://sverdlofflaw.com/immigration-services/i-862-notice-to-appear-nta/)
- [Naturalization](https://sverdlofflaw.com/immigration-services/naturalization-lawyer-in-chicago/)
- [NOID (Notice of Intent to Deny) Responses](https://sverdlofflaw.com/immigration-services/noid-notice-of-intent-to-deny-responses/)
- [RFE (Request for Evidence) Responses](https://sverdlofflaw.com/immigration-services/rfe-request-for-evidence-responses/)
- [Self-Petitions](https://sverdlofflaw.com/immigration-services/self-petitioning-under-the-violence-against-women-act-vawa/)
- [Temporary Protected Status (TPS)](https://sverdlofflaw.com/immigration-services/temporary-protected-status-attorney-in-chicago/)
- [Violence Against Women Act (VAWA)](https://sverdlofflaw.com/immigration-services/self-petitioning-under-the-violence-against-women-act-vawa/)
- [Waivers](https://sverdlofflaw.com/immigration-services/immigration-waivers/)
- [Writ of Mandamus](https://sverdlofflaw.com/immigration-services/writ-of-mandamus/)
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- [Green Card FAQs](https://sverdlofflaw.com/immigration-services/green-card-lawyer-chicago/green-card-faqs/)
- [Obtaining A Green Card](https://sverdlofflaw.com/immigration-services/green-card-lawyer-chicago/)
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- [Costs and Processing Times for Citizenship](https://sverdlofflaw.com/immigration-services/costs-and-processing-times-for-citizenship/)
- [Eligibility for Citizenship](https://sverdlofflaw.com/immigration-services/citizenship-lawyer-chicago/eligibility-for-citizenship/)
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[Home](https://sverdlofflaw.com/ "Go to Sverdloff Law Group.")
\|
Green Card Application Process
# Green Card Application Process
##### Sverdloff Law Group
## Green Card Application Process
Many foreign people dream of becoming legal U.S. residents, but the process can be difficult. Below is a description of the typical steps an applicant will face when applying for a Permanent Resident Card, also known as a [green card](https://sverdlofflaw.com/immigration-services/green-card-lawyer-chicago/). While this overview can be helpful, no two cases are ever the same, and speaking with a [skilled immigration attorney](https://sverdlofflaw.com/attorney-profile/) is highly recommended.
## 1\. Request Consultation
It may be best to [consult with an immigration attorney](https://sverdlofflaw.com/contact-us/) before you begin your application. Errors and misunderstandings during the immigration process can delay or prevent you from obtaining a green card. A skilled attorney can advise you on how to avoid costly mistakes.
## 2\. Determine Eligibility
There are five basic categories of eligibility for a green card, which vary based on your circumstances and reason for entering the U.S. This can include sponsorship from a family member or employer, [seeking asylum](https://sverdlofflaw.com/immigration-services/asylum-lawyer-chicago/) due to persecution in your country of origin, or several other scenarios. A knowledgeable immigration attorney can help determine your eligibility and which type of application is most appropriate for you.
## 3\. Open Case with Sverdloff Law Group
It is possible to file your immigration paperwork without an attorney but having someone on your side who understands the process and can help you prepare for what comes next can be extremely valuable. Our attorneys will explain the fees associated with your case and our payment options before you commit to working with us.
## 4\. Determine Application Process
If you are already in the United States when applying for a green card, you will need to use a process known as [adjustment of status](https://sverdlofflaw.com/immigration-services/adjustment-of-status-lawyer-chicago/). For applicants who live outside the U.S., the application will be processed by a United States Department of State consulate. This is known as [consular processing.](https://sverdlofflaw.com/consular-processing/)
## 5\. Prepare Necessary Documents
Demonstrating your eligibility to [receive a green card](https://sverdlofflaw.com/immigration-services/green-card-lawyer-chicago/) will require you to provide several documents to the U.S. government. Many of these can be submitted online, but some cannot. Your lawyer can assist you in determining which evidence to provide and how to submit it.
## 6\. File Petition
Most green card applicants will start the process by filing an [immigrant petition](https://sverdlofflaw.com/immigration-services/self-petitioning-under-the-violence-against-women-act-vawa/). This is normally filed by a family member or employer if you are living outside the U.S. Once this is processed, a visa number will be issued. For some immediate relatives of U.S. citizens, a visa number is not needed.
## 7\. Apply for Green Card
Once the immigrant petition is approved, and a visa number is available if needed, the next step is normally to register for permanent residency or adjustment of status by filing Form I-485. In some specific cases, a different form may be used.
## 8\. Biometrics Appointment
You will be notified by email that a biometrics interview is needed. This will take place at an Application Support Center and involves collecting fingerprints, photos, and sometimes other data to confirm your identity and complete security checks.
## 9\. Green Card Interview
After reviewing your application, USCIS officials will decide if an in-person interview is necessary. You will be notified of the time and location, and at the interview, you will be required to present originals of all documents submitted with the Form I-485 application.
## 10\. Approval\!
Finally, a written decision will be issued, and if approved, you will receive your green card soon after. If the application is denied, you will be informed of why and whether or not you may appeal the decision.
## Sverdloff Law Group is Here to Help
If you or a loved one is planning to apply for a green card, our skilled immigration attorney can help. [Contact Sverdloff Law Group](https://sverdlofflaw.com/contact-us/) today to schedule a consultation and learn more.
## Helping You Realize Your Dreams for a New Life in the United States
Our immigration attorneys will fight to ensure that you receive the best outcome in your immigration case.






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[](https://sverdlofflaw.com/attorney-profile/)
### [Julia Sverdloff, Esq.](https://sverdlofflaw.com/julia-sverdloff/)
Attorney Julia Sverdloff is the founder and owner of Sverdloff Law Group in Chicago, Illinois. Our firm speaks Ukranian, Russian, Serbian, Croatian, Bosnian and Spanish.
[Schedule Online](https://sverdlofflaw.com/scheduling/)
## Every Dream Should Be Realized. Let Us Help You Accomplish Yours.
[Schedule Online](https://sverdlofflaw.com/scheduling/)
### Our Practices
- [Adjustment of Status](https://sverdlofflaw.com/immigration-services/adjustment-of-status-lawyer-chicago/)
- [Appeals](https://sverdlofflaw.com/green-card-application-process/)
- [Asylum](https://sverdlofflaw.com/immigration-services/asylum-lawyer-chicago/)
- [Citizenship](https://sverdlofflaw.com/immigration-services/citizenship-lawyer-chicago/)
- [Consular Processing](https://sverdlofflaw.com/immigration-services/consular-processing/)
- [Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA)](https://sverdlofflaw.com/green-card-application-process/)
- [Deportation and Removal Defense](https://sverdlofflaw.com/immigration-services/deportation-and-removal-defense/)
- [Employment-Based Green Cards](https://sverdlofflaw.com/green-card-application-process/)
- [Family-Based Immigration](https://sverdlofflaw.com/immigration-services/family-based-immigration/)
- [Fiancé Visa and K-1 Visa](https://sverdlofflaw.com/immigration-services/fiance-visa-lawyer-and-k-1-visa/)
- [Green Card](https://sverdlofflaw.com/immigration-services/green-card-lawyer-chicago/)
- [I9 Compliance](https://sverdlofflaw.com/green-card-application-process/)
- [I-140 Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker](https://sverdlofflaw.com/green-card-application-process/)
- [I-485 Adjustment of Status](https://sverdlofflaw.com/green-card-application-process/)
- [Mandamus (Suing the Government)](https://sverdlofflaw.com/green-card-application-process/)
- [N400 Naturalization](https://sverdlofflaw.com/green-card-application-process/)
- [Naturalization](https://sverdlofflaw.com/immigration-services/naturalization-lawyer-in-chicago/)
- [NOID (Notice of Intent to Deny) Responses](https://sverdlofflaw.com/green-card-application-process/)
- [Nonimmigrant Visas](https://sverdlofflaw.com/immigration-services/nonimmigrant-visas/)
- [Removal of Conditions I-751](https://sverdlofflaw.com/immigration-services/removal-of-conditions-i-751/)
- [RFE (Request for Evidence) Responses](https://sverdlofflaw.com/green-card-application-process/)
- [Temporary Protected Status (TPS)](https://sverdlofflaw.com/immigration-services/temporary-protected-status-attorney-in-chicago/)
- [Violence Against Women Act (VAWA)](https://sverdlofflaw.com/immigration-services/self-petitioning-under-the-violence-against-women-act-vawa/)
## Every Dream Should Be Realized. Let Us Help You Accomplish Yours.
[Schedule Online](https://sverdlofflaw.com/scheduling/)

[See All Reviews](https://sverdlofflaw.com/reviews/)
##### Reviews
## Words From Our Clients
###### Reviews from our clients from around the world.
Very knowledgeable attorney. I had the chance to work with many attorneys last ten years. Julia was most knowledgeable and helpful. She got the job done right. Thank you. [Read More](https://sverdlofflaw.com/reviews/#item4295)
#### Mirrakhim
[](https://www.avvo.com/attorneys/60603-il-julia-sverdloff-3802713.html#client_reviews)
Julia and her team were purely amazing throughout my adjustment of status process. I had one of the most difficult cases any lawyer can handle, and Julia was actually my 3rd lawyer in 12 years. I can't thank her enough for taking the time, and efforts to execute this task… [Read More](https://sverdlofflaw.com/reviews/#item7213)
#### Bassel George Diebo, MD
[](https://www.google.com/search?q=julia+sverdloff+google+reviews&oq=julia+sverdloff+google+reviews&aqs=chrome..69i57.406933311j0j7&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8&shem=ssmd#lrd=0x880e2ca35703be87:0x5ef5b35392d93458,1,,)
Before meeting Julia and her team, I met many lawyers, but I could not find a better and more professional than Julia Sverdloff. Julia and her team are the best of the best. This team goes to the victorious finish and does not abandon its clients halfway! With this team,… [Read More](https://sverdlofflaw.com/reviews/#item7455)
#### Atmir K.
[](https://www.google.com/search?q=julia+sverdloff+google+reviews&oq=julia+sverdloff+google+reviews&aqs=chrome..69i57.406933311j0j7&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8&shem=ssmd#lrd=0x880e2ca35703be87:0x5ef5b35392d93458,1,,)
Julia's help was invaluable. She is very professional, knowledgeable, straightforward, fast, and empathetic. She was able to solve a green card issue I had been dealing with for 5,5 years in 4 months and helped me with the naturalization process as well. She prepared me thoroughly for the interview, and… [Read More](https://sverdlofflaw.com/reviews/#item5853)
#### Veronique
[](https://www.google.com/search?q=julia+sverdloff+google+reviews&oq=julia+sverdloff+google+reviews&aqs=chrome..69i57.406933311j0j7&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8&shem=ssmd#lrd=0x880e2ca35703be87:0x5ef5b35392d93458,1,,)
I’ve worked with Julia and her team on multiple cases, and every time the experience has been absolutely great. Julia is incredibly knowledgeable, professional, and supportive, honestly the best immigration attorney in Chicago. I came to them through a friend’s recommendation and have since recommended them to others. Everyone I… [Read More](https://sverdlofflaw.com/reviews/#item7343)
#### Anastasia S.
[](https://www.google.com/search?q=julia+sverdloff+google+reviews&oq=julia+sverdloff+google+reviews&aqs=chrome..69i57.406933311j0j7&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8&shem=ssmd#lrd=0x880e2ca35703be87:0x5ef5b35392d93458,1,,)
I want to thank the firm and especially attorney Kristen Coffe, who helped my aunt get out of ICE detention since she already had a deportation order. Thank you for your help and I recommend the attorney's services. [Read More](https://sverdlofflaw.com/reviews/#item8918)
#### Karen S.
[](https://www.google.com/search?q=julia+sverdloff+google+reviews&oq=julia+sverdloff+google+reviews&aqs=chrome..69i57.406933311j0j7&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8&shem=ssmd#lrd=0x880e2ca35703be87:0x5ef5b35392d93458,1,,)
Highly recommend! Julia and her team made the marriage-based green card process seamless, thank you! Julia's professionalism, attention to detail and responsiveness throughout the whole process made us feel comfortable and confident in our application. I cannot stress enough how reassuring it was to have responses from Julia and her… [Read More](https://sverdlofflaw.com/reviews/#item8917)
#### Client
[](https://www.google.com/search?q=julia+sverdloff+google+reviews&oq=julia+sverdloff+google+reviews&aqs=chrome..69i57.406933311j0j7&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8&shem=ssmd#lrd=0x880e2ca35703be87:0x5ef5b35392d93458,1,,)
They were extremely helpful, organized, and efficient throughout the process. Thanks to their support, the immigration process to obtain my green card went very smoothly. [Read More](https://sverdlofflaw.com/reviews/#item8277)
#### David C.
[](https://www.google.com/search?q=julia+sverdloff+google+reviews&oq=julia+sverdloff+google+reviews&aqs=chrome..69i57.406933311j0j7&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8&shem=ssmd#lrd=0x880e2ca35703be87:0x5ef5b35392d93458,1,,)
My spouse and I had an excellent experience with Attorney Sverdloff and her team. She, along with her star paralegal Chris, worked efficiently and diligently in preparing the suite of forms and supporting documents for my spouse's adjustment of status, and preparing us for our interview. We felt confident and… [Read More](https://sverdlofflaw.com/reviews/#item8276)
#### Ameena
[](https://www.google.com/search?q=julia+sverdloff+google+reviews&oq=julia+sverdloff+google+reviews&aqs=chrome..69i57.406933311j0j7&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8&shem=ssmd#lrd=0x880e2ca35703be87:0x5ef5b35392d93458,1,,)
I cannot thank Julia Sverdloff and their team enough for helping us with our I-751. We were worried because our case had some complexities \[e.g., moved states, separated finances, got divorce while still in conditional\] but Julia was incredibly thorough and knowledgeable. Their attention to detail and responsiveness to emails… [Read More](https://sverdlofflaw.com/reviews/#item8275)
#### Client
[](https://www.google.com/search?q=julia+sverdloff+google+reviews&oq=julia+sverdloff+google+reviews&aqs=chrome..69i57.406933311j0j7&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8&shem=ssmd#lrd=0x880e2ca35703be87:0x5ef5b35392d93458,1,,)
We had a consultation with Julia Sverdloff and are very grateful for her help. She is an amazing professional - knowledgeable, clear, and extremely attentive. She answered all of our questions thoroughly and explained everything in a way that was easy to understand. We truly appreciated her calm approach and… [Read More](https://sverdlofflaw.com/reviews/#item8222)
#### Tetiana K.
[](https://www.google.com/search?q=julia+sverdloff+google+reviews&oq=julia+sverdloff+google+reviews&aqs=chrome..69i57.406933311j0j7&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8&shem=ssmd#lrd=0x880e2ca35703be87:0x5ef5b35392d93458,1,,)
Today was an amazing day. We won a case with my attorneys Kristen and Julia. Thank You very much for your help and support. Highly recommend this law firm! [Read More](https://sverdlofflaw.com/reviews/#item8196)
#### Daniel B.
[](https://www.google.com/search?q=julia+sverdloff+google+reviews&oq=julia+sverdloff+google+reviews&aqs=chrome..69i57.406933311j0j7&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8&shem=ssmd#lrd=0x880e2ca35703be87:0x5ef5b35392d93458,1,,)
I highly recommend this immigration attorney. She is highly professional, punctual, and exceptionally knowledgeable in her field. She is deeply dedicated to her clients, consistently advocates on their behalf, and provides clear and timely responses to all inquiries. Her reliability, professionalism, and commitment ensure that clients feel fully supported throughout… [Read More](https://sverdlofflaw.com/reviews/#item8131)
#### Client
[](https://www.google.com/search?q=julia+sverdloff+google+reviews&oq=julia+sverdloff+google+reviews&aqs=chrome..69i57.406933311j0j7&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8&shem=ssmd#lrd=0x880e2ca35703be87:0x5ef5b35392d93458,1,,)
Exceptional immigration attorney – highly recommended I am incredibly grateful to Julia Sverdloff and her entire legal team for their outstanding work and professionalism. They represented me in immigration court in Chicago, and thanks to their dedication, knowledge, and careful preparation, we won the case. From the very beginning, Julia… [Read More](https://sverdlofflaw.com/reviews/#item8081)
#### Ivan
[](https://www.google.com/search?q=julia+sverdloff+google+reviews&oq=julia+sverdloff+google+reviews&aqs=chrome..69i57.406933311j0j7&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8&shem=ssmd#lrd=0x880e2ca35703be87:0x5ef5b35392d93458,1,,)
Great service, responsible people. [Read More](https://sverdlofflaw.com/reviews/#item8080)
#### Ilja J.
[](https://www.google.com/search?q=julia+sverdloff+google+reviews&oq=julia+sverdloff+google+reviews&aqs=chrome..69i57.406933311j0j7&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8&shem=ssmd#lrd=0x880e2ca35703be87:0x5ef5b35392d93458,1,,)
Thank you. Thank you to Julia and her team. Addilene and Chris, thank you very much. I found this team through Google, and I will leave my review here. After checking several immigration websites on Google, I decided to entrust my case to Julia and her team, since they had… [Read More](https://sverdlofflaw.com/reviews/#item7987)
#### Yesenia O.
[](https://www.google.com/search?q=julia+sverdloff+google+reviews&oq=julia+sverdloff+google+reviews&aqs=chrome..69i57.406933311j0j7&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8&shem=ssmd#lrd=0x880e2ca35703be87:0x5ef5b35392d93458,1,,)
Julia Sverdloff and her firm helped me to get a Green Card. I had a difficult and complicated case and Julia did everything to help me in the process. All my questions and concerns were answered promptly. I recommend Julia to anyone seeking a great immigration lawyer. Thank you Julia! [Read More](https://sverdlofflaw.com/reviews/#item7972)
#### Daria K.
[](https://www.google.com/search?q=julia+sverdloff+google+reviews&oq=julia+sverdloff+google+reviews&aqs=chrome..69i57.406933311j0j7&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8&shem=ssmd#lrd=0x880e2ca35703be87:0x5ef5b35392d93458,1,,)
Thank you for your services. You are always available to answer questions. Together, we won political asylum and I hope we can continue to work together to achieve our future goals. Thank you again. [Read More](https://sverdlofflaw.com/reviews/#item7961)
#### Александр С.
[](https://www.google.com/search?q=julia+sverdloff+google+reviews&oq=julia+sverdloff+google+reviews&aqs=chrome..69i57.406933311j0j7&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8&shem=ssmd#lrd=0x880e2ca35703be87:0x5ef5b35392d93458,1,,)
The attorney Addilene Avila helped me with my residency process, and I obtained my green card. She guided me through the process, was very patient, and efficient. I highly recommend her to anyone who wants to adjust their status. Excellent service from everyone. [Read More](https://sverdlofflaw.com/reviews/#item7928)
#### Guillermo
[](https://www.google.com/search?q=julia+sverdloff+google+reviews&oq=julia+sverdloff+google+reviews&aqs=chrome..69i57.406933311j0j7&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8&shem=ssmd#lrd=0x880e2ca35703be87:0x5ef5b35392d93458,1,,)
We consulted multiple lawyers in Indiana and Chicago before we decided to proceed with Sverdloff Law. In hindsight, I couldn’t be happier with that choice. All of Julia’s employees are great and quick to respond. They get the job done, and they tell it to you how it is, which… [Read More](https://sverdlofflaw.com/reviews/#item7880)
#### Yasmin A.
[](https://www.google.com/search?q=julia+sverdloff+google+reviews&oq=julia+sverdloff+google+reviews&aqs=chrome..69i57.406933311j0j7&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8&shem=ssmd#lrd=0x880e2ca35703be87:0x5ef5b35392d93458,1,,)
[See All Reviews](https://sverdlofflaw.com/reviews/)
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| Readable Markdown | Many foreign people dream of becoming legal U.S. residents, but the process can be difficult. Below is a description of the typical steps an applicant will face when applying for a Permanent Resident Card, also known as a [green card](https://sverdlofflaw.com/immigration-services/green-card-lawyer-chicago/). While this overview can be helpful, no two cases are ever the same, and speaking with a [skilled immigration attorney](https://sverdlofflaw.com/attorney-profile/) is highly recommended.
## 1\. Request Consultation
It may be best to [consult with an immigration attorney](https://sverdlofflaw.com/contact-us/) before you begin your application. Errors and misunderstandings during the immigration process can delay or prevent you from obtaining a green card. A skilled attorney can advise you on how to avoid costly mistakes.
## 2\. Determine Eligibility
There are five basic categories of eligibility for a green card, which vary based on your circumstances and reason for entering the U.S. This can include sponsorship from a family member or employer, [seeking asylum](https://sverdlofflaw.com/immigration-services/asylum-lawyer-chicago/) due to persecution in your country of origin, or several other scenarios. A knowledgeable immigration attorney can help determine your eligibility and which type of application is most appropriate for you.
## 3\. Open Case with Sverdloff Law Group
It is possible to file your immigration paperwork without an attorney but having someone on your side who understands the process and can help you prepare for what comes next can be extremely valuable. Our attorneys will explain the fees associated with your case and our payment options before you commit to working with us.
## 4\. Determine Application Process
If you are already in the United States when applying for a green card, you will need to use a process known as [adjustment of status](https://sverdlofflaw.com/immigration-services/adjustment-of-status-lawyer-chicago/). For applicants who live outside the U.S., the application will be processed by a United States Department of State consulate. This is known as [consular processing.](https://sverdlofflaw.com/consular-processing/)
## 5\. Prepare Necessary Documents
Demonstrating your eligibility to [receive a green card](https://sverdlofflaw.com/immigration-services/green-card-lawyer-chicago/) will require you to provide several documents to the U.S. government. Many of these can be submitted online, but some cannot. Your lawyer can assist you in determining which evidence to provide and how to submit it.
## 6\. File Petition
Most green card applicants will start the process by filing an [immigrant petition](https://sverdlofflaw.com/immigration-services/self-petitioning-under-the-violence-against-women-act-vawa/). This is normally filed by a family member or employer if you are living outside the U.S. Once this is processed, a visa number will be issued. For some immediate relatives of U.S. citizens, a visa number is not needed.
## 7\. Apply for Green Card
Once the immigrant petition is approved, and a visa number is available if needed, the next step is normally to register for permanent residency or adjustment of status by filing Form I-485. In some specific cases, a different form may be used.
## 8\. Biometrics Appointment
You will be notified by email that a biometrics interview is needed. This will take place at an Application Support Center and involves collecting fingerprints, photos, and sometimes other data to confirm your identity and complete security checks.
## 9\. Green Card Interview
After reviewing your application, USCIS officials will decide if an in-person interview is necessary. You will be notified of the time and location, and at the interview, you will be required to present originals of all documents submitted with the Form I-485 application.
## 10\. Approval\!
Finally, a written decision will be issued, and if approved, you will receive your green card soon after. If the application is denied, you will be informed of why and whether or not you may appeal the decision.
## Sverdloff Law Group is Here to Help
If you or a loved one is planning to apply for a green card, our skilled immigration attorney can help. [Contact Sverdloff Law Group](https://sverdlofflaw.com/contact-us/) today to schedule a consultation and learn more. |
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| Publish Time | 2026-03-06 17:17:17 (1 month ago) |
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