JLA Law Group

Your Path to Permanent Residence in Georgia

Case Evaluation→(770) 609-9396

The permanent resident card (green card) is the most important step on your path to permanent life in the United States. Whether through a U.S. citizen or permanent resident family member, employment, or special categories such as the U-visa or VAWA, the process requires careful navigation of immigration law. At J. Lee & Associates in Norcross, Georgia, our bilingual attorneys have specific experience with USCIS processes and the immigration courts serving Gwinnett County and the greater Atlanta metropolitan area.

The green card process generally begins with a petition (Form I-130 for family members or I-140 for employment) and continues with adjustment of status (Form I-485) if you are in the United States, or consular processing if you are abroad. Under INA § 245, adjustment of status allows certain beneficiaries to obtain their residence without leaving the country, which is especially important for individuals who could face bars of inadmissibility under INA § 212(a)(9)(B) for prior unlawful presence.

For immediate relatives of U.S. citizens (spouse, parents, and unmarried children under 21), there is no annual visa limit under INA § 201(b), which means shorter wait times. Family preference categories (F1 through F4) are subject to annual limits and wait lists that can last years. Our team monitors the Visa Bulletin monthly and keeps you informed about the progress of your case.

Steps You Should Take

1

Eligibility Evaluation

Call (770) 609-9396 for a consultation where we evaluate your eligibility category, estimated wait times, and any potential obstacles such as bars of inadmissibility or criminal history.

2

Petition Preparation

We gather all necessary evidence: birth certificates, marriage certificates, evidence of a genuine relationship, and financial documents for the affidavit of support (I-864).

3

Filing and Monitoring

We file your petition with USCIS, monitor the status, and respond to any request for evidence (RFE) promptly and thoroughly.

4

Interview Preparation

We prepare you for your interview with USCIS or the consulate, reviewing potential questions and ensuring all documentation is organized and complete.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get a green card through family?
For immediate relatives of citizens (spouse, parents, unmarried minor children), the process can take 12 to 24 months. For preference categories, the wait can range from 2 to 20+ years depending on the category and country of origin. We consult the current Visa Bulletin to provide you with accurate estimates.
Can I adjust status if I entered without inspection?
Generally no, with important exceptions. If you are an immediate relative of a citizen under INA § 245(a), you may adjust even with an entry without inspection if you qualify under INA § 245(i) (petition filed before April 30, 2001). You may also qualify if you have an approved U-visa or VAWA petition.
What is an immigration waiver?
A waiver is an exemption from inadmissibility that allows USCIS to approve your case despite a ground that would normally disqualify you. The I-601A is a provisional unlawful presence waiver filed before your consular interview. You must demonstrate that your U.S. citizen or permanent resident qualifying relative would suffer extreme hardship without you.
Is a conditional green card different?
Yes. If you obtained your residence through marriage and had been married for less than 2 years at the time of approval, you receive a 2-year conditional green card. You must file Form I-751 within the 90 days before it expires to remove the conditions. If you divorced, you may apply for a waiver of the joint filing requirement.
Can I work while waiting for my green card?
If you have a pending I-485, you can apply for a work permit (EAD) using Form I-765 under category (c)(9). USCIS also grants a travel permit (advance parole) with Form I-131. Both can be filed simultaneously with the I-485.

Applicable Laws

INA § 245 / 8 USC § 1255Adjustment of status to permanent resident within the United States.
INA § 212(a)(9)(B)3-year and 10-year bars of inadmissibility for unlawful presence.
INA § 201(b)Immediate relatives of citizens: no annual visa limit.
INA § 213A / Form I-864Affidavit of support: 125% of the federal poverty level.

Related Services

Peticiones FamiliaresLey de InmigraciónNaturalizaciónLey de InmigraciónPermisos de TrabajoLey de Inmigración

Other Immigration Law Services

D
Deportation Defense
A
Asylum
V
VAWA
U
U-Visa
D
DACA
N
Naturalization
F
Family Petitions
W
Work Permits
C
Cancellation of Removal
I
I-601 Waiver
M
Marriage Green Card
A
Adjustment of Status
H
H-1B Visa
T
Temporary Protected Status
S
Special Immigrant Juvenile
C
Criminal & Immigration

Case Evaluation

Talk to a green card attorney today.

Schedule Consultation(770) 609-9396

1250 Tech Dr, Suite 240

Norcross, GA 30093

Don't Wait. Every Day Counts.

The law has deadlines. Protect your rights today.

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