For individuals that are looking to adjust their status as a permanent resident of the United States, they can file a petition to adjust their status. With this process, it may take a significant amount of time. This process can include multiple steps such as biometrics, a medical examination and a formal interview.

What does biometrics involve?

Biometrics refers to the processes that are used to identify individuals, which includes a criminal background check. Immigrant applicants will participate in this process. Certain crimes on your record can cause a delay to the process or even prevent it based on the crime’s seriousness. For these appointments, individuals need to get fingerprinted and photographed. This is to prove their identity and check their background. If applicants are from developing countries and do not have the proper documentation to prove their identity, their DNA may be taken to compensate for their lack of documentation. If the applicant is married to a U.S. citizen, they may have to validate their marriage through proof of documentation. If you decide to leave the U.S. during the period of time when your application is pending, then this may negatively impact the process.

Other aspects of the process include a medical exam and an interview. The medical exam is to ensure that you are not carrying communicable diseases. In the exam, it will review your immunization records and any physical or mental disorders stated in your medical history. Since visa numbers are limited to certain family members of U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents and for employment cases, you may not receive an immigrant visa number immediately. It could take up to several years for the immigration services to approve your immigration visa petition. After that, you will then have to be provided with an immigrant visa number by the Department of State.

Who is eligible for permanent residency?

To become a permanent resident in the United States, you will have to fulfill one of the following requirements. These categories can include a family-based citizenship, employment opportunity, refugee or asylum status or special programs.

The Law Office of Neal Richardson Datta has over 25 years of experience guiding clients through a variety of immigration legal matters, some of which include deportation defense, petitions, and waivers. If you require the services of an experienced immigration attorney with the skill to effectively represent you, contact our firm today to schedule a consultation.

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