Mistakes People Make with DIY Green Card Applications
Our law firm sometimes hears from people who tried to handle their own immigration case, only to end up completely confused. We understand the desire to avoid paying for an attorney. Although money is tight for everyone, there are some critical steps to avoid when trying to obtain a green card. Contact The Law Office of Jason M. Sullivan, PLLC, for immediate assistance. We can help you avoid the following pitfalls.
7 Errors to Avoid When Applying for a Green Card
- Inconsistent or Erroneous Information
To make the immigration process go as smoothly as possible, your application should not have inconsistent information. For example, dates of employment should be consistent across all supporting documentation. If not, you can trigger a Request for Evidence (RFE) or even a denial.
USCIS is always looking for proof of fraud, and even minor errors can draw unwanted scrutiny to your application. As your immigration lawyer, we can go over all supporting documents to make sure critical information aligns with the information in your application.
- Lack of Supporting Documentation
The green card process is “document heavy.” You will need to provide substantial amounts of evidence and supporting documentation to prove you deserve a green card.
For example, if your request is based on marriage, then you need sufficient evidence that your marriage is bona fide. Similarly, anyone seeking a green card based on family will need proof of financial sponsorship and the existence of the familial relationship. Work closely with an attorney to ensure you support your application with adequate evidence.
- Applying when Ineligible
Some people who apply without a lawyer’s help are not eligible. They could have discovered that fact and saved time and money by meeting with an attorney before submitting an application.
Our firm can go over your file to determine if you are eligible. This is a critical step if you have any criminal history, for example.
- Not Complying with Financial Sponsorship Rules
Proving you will be financially supported is critical when applying for a green card. Some people end up selecting sponsors who do not meet income requirements, or they submit inaccurate or incomplete tax information. Financial sponsorship has drawn increased scrutiny recently.
- Not Addressing Problems or Barriers
Do you have any problems in the past that would disqualify you from a green card? For example, you might have entered the country illegally or overstayed your visa. You could also have criminal convictions. A lawyer can spot these problems on the horizon and develop a strategy for dealing with them.
- Traveling While Your Application is Pending
If you have a pending adjustment application, then leaving the U.S. could result in an abandonment of your application. This is a dramatic consequence. Call an attorney to understand advance parole and how it applies to your case.
- Going into an Interview Blind
A lawyer can prepare you for the interview so that you not only feel confident, but you provide consistent, accurate information.
Contact Our Law Office Today
The above list is only some of the mistakes that people make when they apply for a green card without adequate legal representation. Call our firm to talk with an immigration lawyer in Portsmouth, New Hampshire and Miami, Florida.