How To Get Green Card Faster Than 90 Days

The Fast Track (Maybe): Strategies for Expediting Your Green Card Application

The process of obtaining a green card, also known as a lawful permanent resident (LPR) card, can be lengthy and involve multiple steps. While the standard processing timelines can take anywhere from months to years depending on the category, some situations might allow for a faster resolution. This article explores potential avenues for expediting your green card application, but it’s crucial to understand that there are no guaranteed shortcuts.

Important Note: Immigration laws and procedures are complex and constantly evolving. It’s always recommended to consult with an experienced immigration attorney for personalized guidance throughout the green card application process.

Understanding Processing Timelines: Setting Realistic Expectations

The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) considers various factors when determining green card processing times, including:

• Green card category: Different categories (employment-based, family-based, etc.) have designated processing windows.
• Current workload: USCIS caseload can fluctuate, impacting processing speeds.
• Completeness of application: Applications with missing information or errors experience delays.
• Government backlogs: Backlogs due to staffing or security checks can extend processing times.

USCIS provides estimated processing times on their website https://egov.uscis.gov/processing-times/. However, these are approximations, and your individual case might deviate.

Expediting the Green Card Process: Potential Avenues (Limited Availability)

While there’s no guaranteed way to expedite a green card application within a timeframe as short as 90 days, some options can potentially move your case forward quicker:

• Premium Processing (For Eligible Categories): USCIS offers premium processing for certain employment-based green card petitions for an additional fee. This service guarantees expedited adjudication within 15 calendar days, but it doesn’t guarantee approval.
• Emergency Situations: USCIS may consider expediting applications in emergency situations like severe medical hardship, urgent humanitarian reasons, or imminent threats to the applicant’s safety in their home country. However, these situations are highly specific, and USCIS evaluates each request on a case-by-case basis.
• Adjustment of Status vs. Consular Processing: In some situations, applying for adjustment of status from within the U.S. might be faster than consular processing abroad. However, this depends on your specific circumstances and eligibility.
• Expediting Military Service: For certain categories, active members of the U.S. military may be eligible for expedited processing.

Remember: Even with these options, expediting a green card application is not guaranteed. Consult with your immigration attorney to determine if any of these strategies might be applicable to your case.

Streamlining the Process: Tips for a Smooth Application Journey

Here are some general tips to help your green card application proceed as efficiently as possible:

• Consult with an Immigration Attorney: An attorney can guide you through the complex process, ensure your application is complete and accurate, and represent you throughout the process.
• File a Complete and Accurate Application: Double-check all information for accuracy and include all required documentation to avoid delays due to missing information.
• Respond Promptly to USCIS Requests: If USCIS requests additional evidence or information, respond promptly to avoid stalling the process.
• Stay Informed and Manage Expectations: USCIS offers online case status tracking tools so you can monitor the progress of your application. However, be prepared for potential delays and maintain realistic expectations about processing timelines.

Beyond Expediting: Alternatives to Consider

If the standard processing timelines for your green card category seem too long, here are some alternative options to explore with your immigration attorney:

• Explore Different Green Card Categories: Depending on your circumstances, a different green card category might offer a faster processing track.
• Consider Visa Options: Certain visas, like H-1B visas for specialty occupations, might offer a temporary path to U.S. residency while you wait for your green card application to be processed.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Expediting Green Cards

Q: Can I pay extra to expedite my green card application?

A: Premium processing is available for certain employment-based petitions for an additional fee. However, it only guarantees faster processing, not approval.

Q: How can I know if my situation qualifies for an expedited green card application?

A: USCIS considers emergency situations like severe medical hardship or imminent threats to safety for expediting applications. Consult with an immigration attorney to understand if your situation qualifies.

Q: Is it faster to apply for a green card from within the U.S. or abroad?

A: In some cases, adjustment of status within the U.S. might be faster than consular processing abroad. However, this depends on your specific circumstances and eligibility.