Obtaining a Green Card (also known as a Permanent Resident Card) gives you the opportunity to both permanently work and live in the United States. A Green Card is also necessary if you wish to become a U.S. Citizen however, permanent residency does not guarantee nor provide citizenship. Please note that every immigration case varies on each individual applicant, which applies to all Green Card applications as well. If you have submitted your Green Card application and are now on ‘pending’ status, here are some things you should know:
Case Updates
If your case is still pending and you want an update on your application, you can:
- Submit a case inquiry here: https://egov.uscis.gov/e-request/Intro.do
- Look up your case status by using your Form I-485 receipt number, here: https://egov.uscis.gov/casestatus/landing.do
- Call the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) at 800-375-5283.
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- For individuals with disabilities: TTY 800-767-1833.
Processing Time
Currently, in Florida, the average processing time for a Green Card is 13 to 26.5 months. Please note that this time frame is subject to change as the USCIS updates it’s processing time range every month. If you wish to check the current estimated time range, click the link: https://egov.uscis.gov/processing-times/
Update your Address
If you decide to move, your address must be updated with USCIS within 10 days of moving to your new address. Failing to update your address can lead to not receiving important notices and information regarding your case. If you need to change your address, click this link: https://www.uscis.gov/addresschange
Traveling
- If your case is still pending and you need to leave the United States, you must read this travel document: https://www.uscis.gov/i-131
- Failing to obtain an advance parole document before leaving the United States while your case is pending means you will have abandoned your application. For more information, you can visit the travel document page, here: https://www.uscis.gov/green-card/green-card-processes-and-procedures/travel-documents
- Applicants should consult with an experienced immigration attorney before seeking benefits, especially in the case of traveling outside of the United States.
At Rivera Law, we are here to help guide you through your immigration processes. Contact us at 561-651-9322 for your consultation with an experienced immigration attorney today.
Very informative article. A must read if you have any questions on pending green card applications.