Green card processing delay? Discover 5 major reasons your application may be stuck and learn how to overcome them with expert guidance.
Are you wondering why it’s taking so long to get your green card? You’re not alone. Getting a green card or a permanent residency status in the United States can be long and difficult.
Green card application processing delays can happen for several reasons. These include mistakes on the application, missing documents, or a change in the applicant’s employment status.
This blog post explores the five most common reasons for an unreasonable green card delay. By understanding the reasons for the delay, you can be better prepared for the waiting game.
What are Green Cards?
Green cards prove that an individual is a lawful permanent resident of the United States. Also known as a Permanent Resident Card, green card holders can live and work in the U.S. indefinitely.
The U.S. gives out green cards that are good for ten years. The immigration system in the United States uses a points-based system to prioritize who gets a green card.
A person must have a qualifying family relationship or a job offer from a U.S. employer to get a green card. They must also pass a rigid background check and meet other requirements to be eligible.
After living in the U.S. for five years with a green card, a person can apply for U.S. citizenship (or three years if married to a U.S. citizen).
An experienced immigration attorney can help individuals navigate the complex green card application process and ensure they meet all eligibility requirements.
The Green Card Processing Time
Getting a green card usually takes a few months to a few years. The first step is to apply with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Once the application is received, it will be reviewed by an immigration officer. The applicant will be scheduled for an interview if everything is in order.
The interview is usually the last step, and the applicant will be asked to show proof of their ties to the United States at this time. If everything goes smoothly, the applicant will receive their green card in the mail a few weeks later.
But if there are problems with the application or the interview, the process can take much longer. It can take up years to get a green card.
5 Main Reasons for Unreasonable Green Card Delay
Here are the common reasons for green card delays:
Incomplete Applications
One of the common reasons for delays in green card processing is incomplete applications. When an application has missing information or documentation, it can cause significant delays. To avoid delays, you should double-check their application before sending it in so that you don’t have to wait longer than necessary.
Backlogs
Another common reason for processing delays is the green card backlog. The USCIS processes green card applications. But the agency can only do so many at a time.
This means there will likely be delays if there is a high volume of applications. You can’t do much about this except be patient and wait your turn.
Inconsistencies
Another reason for delays is inconsistencies between different parts of your application. For example, if your birthdate on one document doesn’t match the birthdate on another, this can confuse and delay the processing of your application.
Again, as a green card applicant, you must double-check your application before submission to help avoid these types of delays.
Changes in Employment
If you have changed jobs since filing your green card application, this can cause delays. USCIS will need to verify your current employment status and may need additional documentation.
Be sure to keep USCIS updated on any changes in your employment status to avoid delays in processing.
Criminal History
Finally, if you have any criminal history, this can cause delays in green card processing. USCIS will need to investigate your criminal history and may require additional documentation.
Be honest about your application’s criminal history to avoid further delays.
How Could Writ of Mandamus Solve Green Card Application Process Delay?
Attaining proof for legal permanent residence can be lengthy, and applicants are frequently frustrated by the seemingly endless delays. You could try to ease some of this frustration by filing a writ of mandamus.
A writ of mandamus is a court order that compels a government agency to take action on a pending application. In the context of the Green Card application process, a writ of mandamus could be used to compel the relevant government agency to adjudicate an application that has been pending for an unreasonably long period.
While there is no guarantee that a writ of mandamus will be successful in every case, it may provide some relief for those caught in the frustrating limbo of a delayed application process.
Talk to a Certified Immigration Lawyer Today!
Despite the many changes and delays in the green card process, one thing remains certain- getting your green card is worth it. The benefits of being a legal permanent resident are vast and varied and can touch almost every area of your life. If you need guidance, consult an experienced immigration lawyer in Columbus GA.
Don’t give up if you feel stuck or frustrated because your application is taking too long! There are a lot of qualified immigration lawyers who can help you through the process. Contact competent immigration lawyers today for a free consultation and to learn more about how they can help you get your green card and make your dreams come true.
Consult a Skilled Citizenship Lawyer for Green Card Help
If your green card process is delayed or you’re unsure what steps to take next, a skilled citizenship lawyer can help. They know a lot about immigration laws. This knowledge helps you avoid making expensive mistakes.
Legal support is key when you face document issues, background checks, or delays. It can greatly improve your path to permanent residency.
A good citizenship lawyer helps immigrants through tough legal steps. They give expert advice on how to apply for citizenship and what to expect in interviews. With their help, you’re more likely to succeed.
Conclusion
Green card delays can be stressful. But knowing why they happen helps a lot. Things like application mistakes or job changes can cause delays.
Being patient and planning well can help. Also, having a good immigration lawyer by your side is key. They can guide you through these tough times.
With their help, you can get through these delays. And soon, you’ll be one step closer to living in the United States forever.
FAQs
1. Why is my green card application delayed?
Green card delays can happen for many reasons. These include incomplete applications, backlogs, or mistakes. Even job changes can slow things down.
2. What causes green card processing backlogs?
Backlogs occur when too many applications are sent in at once. USCIS can only handle so many at a time. This creates a long wait for approvals.
3. Can job changes delay my green card?
Yes, changing jobs can delay your green card. USCIS needs to check your new job. This might require more documents, slowing things down.
4. How does criminal history affect green cards?
A criminal history can slow down your green card. USCIS will do a deeper check. Being honest is important to avoid more problems.
5. Can I speed up green card delays legally?
Yes, you can try a writ of mandamus in court. It asks the government to act on your application. This legal step might help end long waits.