The Green Card Process Explained: What to Expect When Applying from Houston
If you or a loved one are seeking to become a lawful permanent resident of the United States, applying for a green card is a major milestone. But for many families in Houston, the process can feel confusing, stressful, and overwhelming — especially if English isn’t your first language or if your case has complications.
At Arnold Lopez Law Office, we specialize in immigration law and have helped countless individuals and families successfully apply for and receive green cards. Whether you’re adjusting your status while living in the U.S. or applying from abroad, this guide will walk you through the key steps in the process — and explain how our team can help every step of the way.
What Is a Green Card?
A green card is the common name for the United States Permanent Resident Card. It allows you to live and work permanently in the U.S. and is often the next step before becoming a U.S. citizen.
There are several ways to qualify for a green card, including:
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Through a family member who is a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident
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Through employment or a job offer
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As a refugee or asylee
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Through the Diversity Visa Lottery
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Through special immigration programs (e.g., VAWA, U visas)
In most cases, having an experienced immigration attorney ensures that your application is complete, accurate, and submitted with the right evidence.
Green Card Options for People in Houston
Most of our clients fall into one of the following two categories:
1. Adjustment of Status (Applying from within the U.S.)
If you’re already living in the U.S. legally, you may be eligible to adjust your status without leaving the country.
This process includes:
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Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative)
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Form I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence)
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Work permit (EAD) and travel document (advance parole) applications
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A medical exam from a certified doctor
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Biometrics appointment and USCIS interview
We help Houston residents prepare all forms and supporting documents and represent them during interviews to protect their rights.
2. Consular Processing (Applying from outside the U.S.)
If you’re outside the U.S., your green card application will go through the U.S. embassy or consulate in your country.
The process involves:
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Approval of Form I-130
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Case transfer to the National Visa Center (NVC)
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DS-260 form submission
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Civil documents (birth certificates, police clearances, etc.)
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Medical exam
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In-person consular interview
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Immigrant visa issuance and entry to the U.S.
Once you enter the U.S., your physical green card will be mailed to your address.
How Long Does It Take?
Green card processing times vary depending on:
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Your relationship to the petitioner (e.g., spouse vs. sibling)
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Your country of origin
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Whether you’re adjusting status or doing consular processing
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USCIS backlogs and policy changes
In general:
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Immediate relatives of U.S. citizens (spouses, parents, children under 21) usually receive green cards faster — often within 12–18 months
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Other family categories may take years, especially for siblings or applicants from high-demand countries
At Arnold Lopez Law Office, we keep you informed at every stage and help speed up the process wherever possible.
What Are the Most Common Challenges?
Many green card applications are delayed or denied because of:
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Missing or incorrect forms
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Lack of sufficient supporting documents
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Misunderstandings at the interview
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Prior immigration violations or criminal history
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Public charge concerns
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Errors in translations or civil records
Hiring an experienced immigration attorney minimizes risk and stress, especially if you’ve had a previous denial, overstayed a visa, or have any complications in your case.
How Arnold Lopez Law Office Helps Green Card Applicants in Houston
Here’s what you can expect when you work with us:
✅ Personalized Case Review
We listen to your story and goals, review your documents, and create a strategy that fits your needs — whether you’re applying alone or with family.
✅ Full Application Support
We prepare and file all required forms, gather evidence, order translations, schedule appointments, and keep track of deadlines.
✅ Representation and Communication
We communicate with USCIS, the NVC, and consulates on your behalf. If needed, we attend interviews with you and provide preparation.
✅ Bilingual Support
We offer Spanish-speaking legal support for Houston’s Latino and immigrant communities. You’re never alone — and nothing gets lost in translation.
Do You Qualify for a Green Card?
Every case is different. During your consultation with Attorney Arnold Lopez, we’ll determine if you qualify, what category fits best, and whether your case has any risks or red flags.
We often help:
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Spouses of U.S. citizens or green card holders
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Parents filing for children or vice versa
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Victims of domestic violence (VAWA)
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Those with a DACA, TPS, or asylum background
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Individuals seeking waivers for unlawful presence or other issues
📞 Call Now for Help With Your Green Card Application
Applying for a green card is a big step — and a big opportunity. With the right legal support, you can avoid mistakes, reduce wait times, and move forward with confidence.
📍 Visit us at: Arnold Lopez Law Office, 4617 Bristol St, Houston, TX 77009
📞 Call now: (713) 695-2000
🌐 Learn more: https://arnoldlopez.net/practice-areas/immigration/
Arnold Lopez — Trusted Immigration Help for Houston’s Families. Call today and take the first step toward your future in the U.S.