Step Three: Applying to be an Immigrant

The final phase of the permanent residency process is the submission of an application by the international employee and any qualified dependents for immigrant status. This part of the process belongs completely to the international employee and the staff of International Student and Scholar Services can provide only basic information about the process and forms. There are two avenues for becoming an immigrant:

1. Filing for Adjustment of Status inside the U.S. or
2. Applying for an immigrant visa interview at the U.S. consulate in the home country

The employee must decide which process is best for him/her. The employee and any dependents who are also pursuing permanent residency must maintain their legal status while waiting for the green card to be approved. In deciding it is also important to keep the priority date in mind.

Life after Getting the Green Card

Once the green card is approved, the individual becomes an immigrant, but is still expected to maintain status as lawful permanent resident.