Lawful Permanent Resident Card Attorney Wasco

Understanding Lawful Permanent Resident Card Application Fees in Wasco

The immigration fees for Form I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status) and Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative) are essential costs to consider when applying for a lawful permanent resident card.

Form I-485

The filing fee for Form I-485 varies based on the applicant’s age and circumstances. As of this writing:-For applicants aged 14 to 78, the fee is $1,440.-For applicants under 14, filing with at least one parent’s application, the fee is $950.-For applicants over 78, the fee is $1,440, as they are exempt from the biometric fee.-Refugees are exempt from the fee when adjusting status.

Form I-130

The filing fee for Form I-130 is $675 for paper filing and $625 for online filing. This form is used by U.S. citizens or Lawful Permanent Residents to establish their relationship to certain family members who wish to immigrate to the U.S.These fees are subject to change, so it’s important to check the latest updates from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website before filing.

Do Lawful Permanent Resident Card holders need a separate Work Permit in Wasco?

Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, allows individuals to work legally in the United States while their Form I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status) is pending. Filing Form I-765 with your I-485 is highly beneficial, as it provides a means to earn a livelihood during the often lengthy Lawful Permanent Resident Card application process.Submitting Form I-765 concurrently with your I-485 can expedite your ability to work legally, eliminating the need to wait for your Lawful Permanent Resident Card approval to start employment. At the time of this writing, submitting the I-765 with your I-485 can also be done for free. Additionally, an approved I-765 grants you an Employment Authorization Document (EAD), which serves as proof of your legal right to work in the U.S. This can be crucial for maintaining financial stability and accessing job opportunities while your Lawful Permanent Resident Card application is processed.In Wasco, utilizing local legal resources can help ensure your I-765 and I-485 applications are correctly completed and submitted, maximizing your chances of a smooth and successful adjustment process.

When are Lawful Permanent Resident Card holders Eligible for Citizenship in Wasco?

Lawful Permanent Residents (LPRs) are eligible to apply for U.S. citizenship through the process of naturalization, typically after five years of continuous residence in the United States, as outlined in Section 316 of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) [8 U.S.C. § 1427]. This period is reduced to three years for those married to and living with a U.S. citizen, under Section 319(a) of the INA [8 U.S.C. § 1430(a)].

Continuous Residence and Physical Presence

To qualify, LPRs must demonstrate continuous residence and physical presence in the United States during the required period. Specifically, they must have been physically present for at least 30 months plus one day out of the five years, or 18 months plus one day out of the three years if married to a U.S. citizen. Additionally, they must have resided in the state or USCIS district where they apply for at least three months prior to filing.

Good Moral Character

Lawful Permanent Resident Card holders must also show good moral character, a requirement detailed in Section 101(f) of the INA [8 U.S.C. § 1101(f)]. This includes adhering to the laws of the United States and demonstrating integrity and honesty in their dealings.

English Skills

Applicants must be able to read, write, and speak basic English, and possess knowledge of U.S. history and government. These requirements are waived for certain applicants, such as those who have been permanent residents for at least 20 years and are over 50 years old, or those who are over 55 years old and have been permanent residents for 15 years. Medical exemptions can also be warranted if your doctor is able to provide evidence that you cannot learn or speak English due to a mental or physical disability.

Oath of Allegiance

Applicants must take an Oath of Allegiance to the United States, affirming their commitment to the country’s principles and laws. Local resources in Wasco, including legal aid organizations and immigration attorneys, can provide guidance and assistance in navigating the naturalization process, ensuring all requirements are met.

When Does Your Lawful Permanent Resident Card Expire in Wasco?

Unconditional Lawful Permanent Resident Card = 10 Years

A Lawful Permanent Resident Card is typically valid for 10 years. For most lawful permanent residents (LPRs), this 10-year validity period applies, and they must renew their Lawful Permanent Resident Card before it expires to maintain their status. The renewal process involves filing Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card, which can be done online or via mail. It’s recommended to start the renewal process about six months before the card’s expiration date to avoid any lapse in status.

Conditional Lawful Permanent Resident Card = 2 Years

Conditional Lawful Permanent Resident Cards, issued to certain individuals such as those who obtained their status through marriage or as entrepreneurs, are valid for only 2 years. Conditional residents must apply to remove the conditions on their residency by filing Form I-751 (for marriage-based conditional residents) or Form I-829 (for investor-based conditional residents) within the 90-day period before their card expires. Upon approval, they receive a regular (unconditional) 10-year lawful permanent resident card.

Validity

It’s crucial for Lawful Permanent Resident Card holders to keep their card valid, as it serves as proof of their lawful status in the United States. An expired Lawful Permanent Resident Card can cause complications with employment, travel, and obtaining benefits. Lawful Permanent Resident Card holders must also ensure their information is up to date with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to avoid any issues with their permanent residency status.

Advantages of Having a Lawful Permanent Resident Card in Wasco

Obtaining a Lawful Permanent Resident Card provides numerous benefits:

Live and Work in the USA

Lawful Permanent Resident Card holders can live and work permanently in the United States without the need for special permits or visas. This stability allows for long-term employment opportunities and the ability to establish roots in the community.

Social Security Card and Benefits

Lawful Permanent Resident Card holders are also eligible for social security benefits and can apply for state and federal aid programs.

Own Property and Bring Family Members to the US

They have the right to own property and can sponsor certain family members for their own permanent resident status, promoting family reunification.

Travel Outside the US

Lawful Permanent Resident Card holders can travel more freely in and out of the U.S., though extended absences may affect their status.

Path to Citizenship

Lawful Permanent Resident Card holders have a clear pathway to U.S. citizenship. After meeting the residency requirements, they can apply for naturalization, which grants the full benefits of U.S. citizenship, including the right to vote and protection against deportation.