• obtaining a U.S. work visa or other type of visa
• obtaining a green card
• naturalization
• immigrating to the U.S. for education
• adopting a child from another country (international adoption)
• gaining asylum in the U.S
• other immigration matters

What do I need to file for permanent residency?

In order to file for permanent residency, you must establish that you are eligible for U.S. citizenship by providing all applicable documents and forms.You must submit a completed Form I-485 with filing fee, and a completed Form G-325A with evidence that you have continuously resided in the United States prior to January 1, 1972, to the USCIS district office in your jurisdiction.  There is no appeal from the decision of the District Director, but your application may be renewed in front of an Immigration Judge.

How can I check the status of my application for permanent residency?

Contact the USCIS office that received your application. You should be prepared to provide the USCIS with specific information about your application.

If my application for permanent residency is denied, can I appeal?

Generally, you may appeal within 33 days after the immigration judge decides to remove you from the country. After your appeal form and a required fee are processed, the appeal will be referred to the Board of Immigration Appeals in Washington, D.C.