Immigrant Visas: Legal Permanent Residency

A Legal Permanent Resident (“LPR”), also known as a “Green Card” holder, is the status conferred on someone who wishes to make the United States their permanent home and meets the various requirements, discussed below and throughout this website.  We have processed hundreds of these types of applications for our clients.

Do you Qualify as a Legal Permanent Resident?
Call (773) 463-1601 for a Consultation

You may obtain LPR status by having a U.S. citizen or a legal permanent resident sponsor you (See, Marriage & Other Family-Based Applications, and Fiance Visas), or by obtaining a Labor Certification (See, Labor Certifications).  It is important to note that if someone filed either a family-based application or labor certification I-140 application on your behalf prior to April 30, 2001, you may still qualify for the amnesty that was in effect until that time.   You may also obtain LPR status by winning the diversity lottery or through a substantial business investment in the U.S. (usually $1 million).  These are the customary 4 ways, in addition to asylum (see, Asylum) by which non-citizens obtain Legal Permanent Residency.  If, however, you are interested in coming to the U.S. temporarily, then the Non-Immigrant visas would be more suitable.  (See, Non-Immigrant Visas, e.g. H-1B Visas). 

Don't Just Go to Anyone! 
Chicago Immigration Advocates Gets the Job Done!
Call (773) 463-1601 for a Consulation

When you obtain LPR status, you are entitled to reside and work in the United States indefinitely. Once you obtain LPR status, however, you should seek citizenship because citizenship has additional advantages.  For instance, a LPR can be deemed to “abandon” their legal permanent residency if they leave the country for more than six (6) months (see, Advance Parole).  Other concerns are whether a LPR may have committed any type of crime, whether misdemeanor or felony, for which they may be removed or deported from the U.S. (See, Crimes & Immigration).