Talk To A Chicago Immigration Attorney
312-332-2550
Green Cards
Looking for A Specific Post? Search Below
Becoming a permanent resident, or obtaining a “green card,” is a significant step for noncitizens who wish to remain in the country. In addition, it is an essential step on the path to full citizenship, as individuals who have obtained green cards may apply for naturalization after five years, provided they meet certain other requirements; some individuals may even apply after three years. There are many ways in which a person can obtain a green card, some of which are discussed below. For specific information regarding your case, call our office today to speak with an experienced immigration lawyer.
Employment-Based Green Cards
One of the most common ways an individual can obtain a green card is through obtaining employment in the United States. A person without U.S. citizenship may receive a job offer from a U.S. employer who petitions the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) on behalf of the candidate. Additionally, an individual who invests in an enterprise that creates jobs in the United States may also be able to obtain a green card, as can individuals who are in certain special categories of employment, including the following:
- Afghan and Iraqi translators;
- Broadcasters;
- An employee of an international organization;
- Religious workers; and
- NATO-6 Nonimmigrants.
Family-Based Green Cards
Individuals can also obtain green cards through family members who are U.S. citizens or permanent residents. Categories of family members who may be eligible for a green card include the following:
- Spouses of U.S. citizens and green card holders;
- Children of U.S. citizens and green card holders;
- Parents of U.S. citizens;
- Siblings of U.S. citizens; and
- Fiancés and Fiancées of U.S. citizens.
Green Cards through Asylum or Refugee Status
Another way in which a person may obtain a green card is through approval of asylum or refugee status. Asylum seekers must reside in the United States and be able to establish that they are in fear of or have experienced persecution based upon race, religion, nationality, membership in a particular social group, or political opinion. Individuals who have been granted asylum may apply for a green card one year after that grant. Refugees, on the other hand, can apply from outside of the United States for refugee status. Similarly to asylees, refugees are eligible to apply for a green card after they are in the United States in refugee status for one year.
Other Ways to Obtain a Green Card
There are several other ways to obtain a green card in addition to those listed above. Some of these include the following:
- Self Petitioning pursuant to the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA);
- K Nonimmigrant Status;
- Special Immigrant Juvenile Status;
- Legal Immigration Family Equity (LIFE) Act;
- Being the widower or widow of an American Citizen;
- Cuban citizenship or nativity; and
- Membership in the Armed Forces.
Contact a Chicago Green Card Attorney Today to Discuss Your Legal Options
There are a number of ways that you may be able to qualify for permanent resident status, and an experienced attorney can review your situation and determine which, if any, may apply to you. The Chicago green card lawyers of Kriezelman, Burton & Associates, LLC are dedicated to helping foreign nationals and others with issues related to immigration law resolve their cases with the best possible outcome. To schedule a consultation with one of our lawyers, call our office today at 314-332-2550.
What Our Clients Say
5-Star Rating | Based on 200+ Satisfied Customer Google Reviews
I had a wonderful experience working with Kriezelman Burton & Associates, LLC. From start to finish, the team was professional, knowledgeable, and truly dedicated to guiding me through every step of the process. They made what could have been a stressful situation feel smooth and manageable, always answering questions quickly and keeping me updated. I especially want to thank Khabit for his outstanding support—he was patient, detail-oriented, and went above…
Many thanks to attorney Kevin A Raica and his assistant Rafael Rodriguez for all their help. My immigration case went very smoothly and quickly.
We worked with Kevin Raica from Kriezelman Burton & Associates, LLC, and I can confidently say he went above and beyond for us. Our process was very long and at times overwhelming, but Kevin guided us every step of the way with professionalism, patience, and dedication. He was always available to answer our questions, explained everything clearly, and made sure we understood our options at each stage. What stood out…
A family friend referred me to work with Maya Flores at Kriezelman Burton & Associates, LLC to help me with my U.S. naturalization. Despite the current immigration tension, Maya helped make the process smooth and her familiarity with procedure helped ease my anxiety. She submitted the citizenship application on my behalf and let me know what to expect. I decided to retain her service for the civics interview as well,…
I really want to thank Justin and Kamila; they are the best. I waited almost 20 years and no one could help me get my green card and in 4 months they helped me get my permit, and I got my green card in less then 4 months. They are the best. I will always be grateful for what they did for me, thank you Justin and Kamila!!!!
I am writing this review to express my deepest gratitude for the hard work on our case by our Immigration Attorney, Lauren McClure and her Paralegal, Kamila Lada. My Green Card was approved! I know this wouldn't have been possible without their expertise and dedication. They both were extremely helpful, responsive, and guided us through every step of the way. Lauren took the time to train us for our interview…
I am incredibly grateful to Mr. Burton for his outstanding legal assistance in my immigration case, from my first consultation he heard me patiently demonstrating exceptional professionalism, expertise, and a genuine commitment to my case. Immigration process can be overwhelming and stressful, but he and his team provided clear guidance every step of the way, always answering my questions promptly and reassuring me with their deep expertise. Thanks to their…
I had an outstanding experience working with Brittni Rivera. From our very first consultation, she demonstrated deep expertise, professionalism, and genuine care for my case. Navigating immigration processes can be incredibly stressful, but Brittni made the entire journey much more manageable and transparent. She were always responsive to my questions, provided clear guidance at every step, and never made me feel like just another case. Thanks to her hard work…
Highly recommend this firm. I had the pleasure of working with Lauren McClure and she is absolutely the best. She was very helpful and walked me through every step of the process, she is patient and she got the job done. I am very grateful with her and her team for helping me with the process of my case. Thank you so much.
I have worked with Kevin Raica for my VAWA application. Let me tell you he has been AMAZING. Unlike other lawyers Kevin has always went above and beyond for me. Kevin is not in it for the money he is in it to HELP people and make a difference. He has walked me through the entire process and always answers any questions I have no matter what. This law firm…
Schedule A Consultation!
Libertyville
Attorney Advertising. This information is designed for general information only. The information presented should not be construed to be formal legal advice nor the formation of a lawyer/client relationship. Past results and testimonials are not a guarantee, warranty, or prediction of the outcome of your case, and should not be construed as such. Past results cannot guarantee future performance. Any result in a single case is not meant to create an expectation of similar results in future matters because each case involves many different factors, therefore, results will differ on a case-by-case basis. By providing contact information, users acknowledge and give explicit consent to be contacted via the methods of communication provided, including SMS. Message and data rates may apply. Message frequency may vary. Reply STOP to opt out.
NUVEW | Copyright 2025 All Rights Reserved | Accessibility Notice | privacy policy