If you’re thinking about applying for a green card or know someone who is, you’ve probably heard all sorts of things about the process. Some of these things are helpful, while others… well, not so much. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the amount of information floating around, especially when some of it just isn’t true.
In this post, we’re going to clear up five common myths about the green card application process. By the end, you’ll have a much clearer understanding and (hopefully) feel a bit more at ease about how the process really works.
Myth #1: The Process Is Completely Out of Your Control
One of the most common misconceptions is that once you’ve applied, the outcome is entirely in the hands of the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). While it’s true they make the final decision, there’s a lot you can do to influence the process positively.
How? It all comes down to being thorough and precise with your application. Missing documents, incomplete forms, or incorrect information can cause delays or even rejections. Double-check your paperwork before submitting, and make sure you have everything in order. Staying organized and proactive throughout the process will give you a much better chance of success.
Additionally, you can track your application status and respond quickly if the USCIS requests additional information. This ensures there are no unnecessary holdups.
Myth #2: You Can’t Work While Your Green Card Application Is Pending
A common myth is that you must wait for your green card to be approved before you can start working in the U.S. In reality, you can apply for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) simultaneously with your green card application.
If you meet the eligibility criteria, obtaining a green card EAD allows you to work legally while your green card application is being processed. This can provide a significant advantage, particularly if you need to support yourself or your family during the waiting period. Just be sure to submit the EAD application with the correct forms and fees, and keep an eye on processing times, which can vary.
Myth #3: The Green Card Application Process Takes Forever
Yes, the green card process can take some time, but it doesn’t have to feel like an eternity. How long it takes depends on several factors, including your eligibility category and how prepared you are when applying.
For some categories, the wait is shorter than others. For example, family-based green cards tend to take longer than employment-based green cards, but there are exceptions to every rule. Many people believe it takes “forever” because they’ve heard horror stories from friends or family members who had particularly long waits.
But here’s the truth: staying on top of deadlines, submitting complete applications, and responding quickly to any USCIS requests can help keep things moving. Patience is important, but it’s not always as long a journey as some might have you believe.
Myth #4: Getting Married Automatically Gets You a Green Card
Marriage to a U.S. citizen does provide a path to a green card, but it’s not as simple as some may think. The process still involves paperwork, interviews, and sometimes even background checks. In fact, the process can be especially detailed for marriage-based green cards because USCIS is particularly focused on ensuring the marriage is genuine.
Couples must provide plenty of evidence to prove that their relationship is legitimate, which can include anything from joint bank statements to photos together. The interview process is also an important step, as USCIS officers may ask detailed questions about the couple’s life together.
So, while marriage opens the door, it doesn’t provide an instant pass. There’s still a lot of work involved in securing a green card through marriage.
Myth #5: Once You Have a Green Card, You’re Done Forever
While getting a green card is a huge milestone, it’s not the final step for many. One common myth is that once you have your green card, you’re set for life. But the truth is, green cards come with conditions, especially if you’re a conditional permanent resident (often the case with marriage-based green cards). Conditional green cards are valid for two years, and before that period ends, you’ll need to apply to have the conditions removed.
Even with a 10-year green card, there are still requirements to maintain it. For example, you must avoid extended trips outside the U.S., as long absences can affect your residency status. Green card holders are also expected to abide by U.S. laws and file taxes like any other resident.
For many, the ultimate goal is to apply for U.S. citizenship down the road. Becoming a naturalized citizen allows you to enjoy the full rights of U.S. citizenship and eliminates the need for green card renewals.
Time to Rethink What You Know
As you can see, there are a lot of misconceptions about the green card process that can cause unnecessary stress. But once you start separating the myths from the facts, it becomes clear that the process, while important, is often much more straightforward than people assume.
So, if you’re about to start the application process, take a deep breath. With careful preparation, attention to detail, and a bit of patience, you can manage it successfully. And remember, while the process takes time and effort, the result is worth it—living and working permanently in the United States with all the benefits that come with it. Now, that’s something to look forward to!
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