If you are interested in becoming a U.S. citizen, you will first need a green card. Having this immigrant visa makes you a “lawful permanent resident,” which entitles you to live and work in the United States. Getting a green card tends to be challenging, however, and the methods through which you can potentially obtain one will depend on your unique circumstances. 

Our New York City immigration attorney may be able to help you get your green card through:

• Family. If you have a family member who is already a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident, they may be able to sponsor you for your own green card.
• Employment. A U.S.-based employer can also sponsor you for a green card if they are willing to hire you for a qualifying position. 
• The Diversity Immigrant Visa Lottery Program. If you have a high school degree or qualifying work experience and were born in a country that does not typically send many immigrants to the U.S., you may be able to enter the “visa lottery,” which awards 50,000 green cards each year.
• Asylum. You can request protection in the United States if you were previously persecuted or have reason to believe you will be persecuted in your home country on the basis of race, nationality, religion, political opinions, or membership in a particular social group.
• VAWA or U Visas. If you were the victim of a serious crime or were abused by a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident family member, you may be able to able to access a green card.

Ready to discuss your case with our New York City immigration lawyer? Contact us online or call (347) 868-6100 to start exploring your options.