Dedicated to Helping You Obtain Legal Residency Former ICE with Nearly 10 Years' Experience in Immigration Law

Residency and Green Cards

Understanding How to Become a Legal Resident of the U.S. If you are an immigrant seeking permanent residency in the United States, you need a Houston immigration lawyer who knows the process and can not only help you along the way professionally but also can keep you informed every step of the way. Immigration laws are complex, but having an attorney who is able to keep you informed of the status of your residency can provide simple solutions to complex immigration matters. Our attorneys can communicate in an easy-to-understand way exactly what needs to be done to help you achieve your dreams of permanent residency.

What is a green card?

A green card is a legal document that allows an immigrant or foreign national to gain permanent residence in the United States. A green card holder is a permanent resident who has been granted the authorization to live and work in the United States legally and permanently. Green cards are valid for 10 years and must be renewed even though permanent residence status does not expire.

There are several ways in which an immigrant can become a green card holder, including obtaining a green card through:

  • Family or marriage
  • An employer or business relationship
  • Refugee status, humanitarian programs, or asylum

Admittedly, the process of obtaining a green card, especially without the help of a skilled immigration attorney, is difficult, time consuming, and complex. Individuals who dream of working and living in the United States often feel as though pursuing a green card to obtain permanent residency is nearly impossible.

Permanent Resident Status in Texas

Though attaining permanent residency is a goal that many immigrants wish to achieve, it is important to know that permanent resident status can be lost. Should a green card holder abandon permanent resident status by traveling abroad for long periods of time, permanent resident status may not be restored. If a green card holder is convicted of a criminal offense or criminal immigration offense, permanent resident status could be revoked and a request for permanent removal (deportation) could be initiated. In the event of an arrest, green card holders need to consult the Houston immigration attorneys from Lopez & Rhodes PLLC for deportation defense immediately.

Immigrants could also lose their permanent resident status by earning citizenship. Once a naturalized U.S. citizen, green card holders lose their permanent resident status and can enjoy the rights and responsibilities of being an American citizen. Citizenship is the ultimate goal for most immigrants and can be attained over time and with the help of our skilled immigration lawyers.

Contact Lopez & Rhodes PLLC and fill out a case evaluation form to get started with her today!

Why We Make The Difference:

  • Nearly 10 Years of Experience

  • Former ICE Experience

  • Dedication and Compassion to Every Client's Situation

  • Member of American Immigration Lawyers Association