Guide to Residency in the United States

Obtaining a residency visa in the United States is not always easy, but our Guide to Residency in the United States gives newcomers an overview of the steps involved and advice from others who have already navigated the process.

Please note that the process of obtaining residency in the United States can be complex and may vary depending on individual circumstances. The following list provides a general overview of the steps one might take to obtain residency status, but it is important to consult with an immigration attorney or a legal expert for personalized advice and the most current information. ```html

• Determine your eligibility for residency
  • Check if you qualify for a Green Card through family, employment, refugee or asylee status, or other special provisions.
  • Visit the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website for eligibility categories: USCIS Eligibility Categories.
• Obtain an immigrant visa
  • File the appropriate petition (e.g., I-130 for family-based or I-140 for employment-based) with USCIS.
  • Wait for petition approval and priority date to become current.
  • Apply for an immigrant visa through the U.S. Department of State.
  • Attend a visa interview at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate.
  • Check visa application status: Consular Electronic Application Center.
• Enter the United States
  • Once your visa is approved, make travel arrangements to enter the U.S. before the visa expiration date.
  • Present your immigrant visa to a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer upon arrival.
• Apply for a Social Security Number (SSN)
  • Visit a local Social Security Administration (SSA) office.
  • Complete an application for a Social Security card (Form SS-5).
  • Provide the required documents to prove your identity and legal status in the U.S.
  • Learn more about SSN application: SSA SSN Application.
• Adjust your status to a permanent resident
  • After entering the U.S., file Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, with USCIS.
  • Attend a biometrics appointment and an interview if required.
  • Wait for a decision on your application.
  • Check your case status online: USCIS Case Status.
• Obtain a Green Card
  • Once your adjustment of status is approved, you will receive your Permanent Resident Card (Green Card) in the mail.
  • Keep your Green Card up-to-date and renew it when necessary.
• Understand your tax obligations
  • Apply for an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) if you do not have an SSN and need to file taxes.
  • File federal and state taxes annually.
  • Learn about tax responsibilities: IRS Foreign Persons and IRS Taxation of Nonresident Aliens.
• Maintain your residency
  • Abide by all immigration laws and avoid activities that could lead to deportation.
  • Keep records of your continuous residence in the U.S. for naturalization purposes.
  • Travel with proper documentation and inform USCIS if you plan to be outside the U.S. for an extended period.

``` This list is a simplified version of the process and does not cover all possible scenarios or steps. Immigration laws and procedures can change, so it is crucial to stay informed through official channels and seek professional guidance when necessary.

What tips do expats have about residency and visas in United States?

"PR is a US territory, so Americans only need to arrive. Residency and Visas for other nationalities have the same requirements as the USA," commented one expat living in Patillas, US.

"In order to enter the United States, non-U.S. citizens must obtain a valid visa from a U.S. Embassy or Consulate. Depending on your nationality and purpose of travel, the type of visa you require and the length of validity may vary. You must apply for a visa in advance of your arrival in the U.S. and must provide certain documents, such as a passport, photograph, and proof of financial support, that accompany the visa application. In order to stay in the United States for a longer period of time, it may be necessary to apply for residency. Generally, potential residents have to petition the U.S. government with an application and supporting documents, such as marriage and birth certificates, financial records and bank statements, to prove the validity of their relationship and/or dependents. Depending on the relationship, further evidence jointly signed documents, photos, or affidavits from third-party witnesses may be required. Once the application is submitted, generally, a U.S. citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) officer will review the evidence and will determine, in some cases after an interview, whether the applicant is eligible for residency," mentioned one expat living in the United States.