Orlando Green Card Lawyer
Securing a green card is a life-changing milestone for many immigrants and their families. It offers substantial benefits, including the stability of permanent residency. With this status, individuals can access more job opportunities, plan their futures with confidence, and enjoy greater freedom in the United States. Additionally, a green card is a critical step for those who wish to pursue full citizenship. Our experienced Orlando green card lawyer is here to guide clients through the process, providing clarity and support every step of the way.
Call Sherris Legal, P.A. or contact us online today. We work with clients throughout Orange County and Seminole County.
Who Is Eligible for a Green Card?
Green card eligibility can be achieved through several pathways, but they all share one essential requirement—a sponsor. A sponsor must be either a U.S. citizen or a current green card holder and must reside within the United States.
While family sponsorship, such as through a spouse or fiancé, is common, a sponsor doesn’t necessarily need to be related to the applicant. Employers often act as sponsors, and in some cases, a friend can take on this important role.
The key factor is the sponsor’s agreement to take financial responsibility for the applicant for a period of 10 years. If the applicant accesses certain government assistance programs during this time, the sponsor may be required to reimburse the appropriate agency.
The Application Process
Applying for a green card involves submitting Form I-485 to the United States Citizenship & Immigration Services (USCIS). This form is central to the application, but it must be accompanied by several documents, including a valid government ID, two recent photographs, and the applicant’s birth certificate. An affidavit of support from the sponsor is also required.
Accuracy is crucial when completing the application. Even minor errors can lead to delays, as USCIS already faces significant processing backlogs. We help our clients avoid unnecessary setbacks by getting their paperwork complete and accurate from the start.
Following submission, applicants will attend an in-person interview with USCIS officials. This step can be intimidating, but preparation is key. Our firm helps clients get ready for their interviews and offers the reassurance of having legal representation present. We work to protect the rights of immigrants and to present their cases as strongly as possible.
What Sets Us Apart
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Clear Communication, AlwaysWe keep you informed at every step, so you’ll never feel lost or alone in the legal process.
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Personal Attention for Every CaseAs a smaller firm, we give your case the care and focus it deserves. You’re never just a file to us—you’re a person who matters.
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Affordable Legal HelpWe’re dedicated to making quality legal assistance accessible and affordable, so you can get the support you need without breaking the bank.
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Hablamos EspañolTrabaje con un abogado de lesiones personales que hable su idioma.
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“Very Caring”
“My case was difficult but they hung in there with me, very caring.”Colleen H. -
“Worked as a Team”
“I really appreciate and thank you for everything.”Angela -
“Constant Communication”
“I would recommend 100% Sherri’s Legal to those looking for professional immigration assistance and guidance.”Jose N. -
“Very Patient”
“I am very pleased with the service provided to me by Sherris Legal.”Marlo P. -
“Quick & Compassionate”
“They handled my case with dedication and caring and ere available at all times to answer questions, or solve problems with doctors.”Paula K. -
“Highly Recommend”
“Everyone they sent me to was very nice and cared genuinely.”Patrick W. -
“Amazing Team”
“They get the job done right and make you feel welcome.”Leonard S. -
“Excellent People”
“From the first day I came to ask for information about my case, they made me feel so calm, they explained everything to me in detail, so I said: this is where they are going to help me.”Bertha B.
The Rights and Responsibilities of Green Card Holders
As a green card holder, you gain the legal right to live and work anywhere in the U.S. without restrictions. This often opens doors to better job prospects, career growth, and the ability to settle where you choose. Additionally, green card holders can leave the country and re-enter freely, as long as they comply with re-entry requirements.
Green card holders can also sponsor certain family members, such as a spouse or children, to join them in the U.S. Furthermore, depending on individual circumstances, they are eligible for some government benefits, including Social Security and Medicare.
However, alongside these rights come important responsibilities. Green card holders must obey all federal, state, and local laws, just like any U.S. citizen. They are also required to file income taxes based on their worldwide income. Maintaining your permanent resident status also entails staying physically present in the United States – extended absences may put your status at risk.
Common Challenges in the Green Card Process
The entire process can be complex, and challenges are not uncommon-- even beyond delays and potential issues with forms,
One of the most frequent hurdles is the lengthy processing time. These delays can create uncertainty and stress for applicants and their families, applicants may face additional complexities based on their specific circumstances. These may include previous immigration violations, criminal records, or difficulties in proving financial sponsorship. These issues often require nuanced legal knowledge to resolve without jeopardizing the application.
Let Our Green Card Lawyers Help You
Sherris Legal, P.A. has been here in Orlando since 2004. We have an in-depth familiarity with the process of applying for permanent residency and how to overcome its hurdles. Furthermore, we chose this field of law precisely because we’re passionate about helping immigrants gain security here in the United States. You’ll never be just another number at our office—your case will be personal to us, and we’ll do all we can to get a good outcome.
Our bilingual staff can accommodate both English and Spanish-speaking clients. We also offer video consultations if that’s more convenient for you. Call Sherris Legal, P.A. today.