Legal Guidance On Green Cards in Miami and Naples, FL

Securing permanent residency in the United States is a major milestone, but obtaining a green card can be legally complex and must be handled carefully. Working with an immigration attorney is essential to facilitate accurate, timely and complete applications.

At the Law Offices of Sandra Echevarria, P.A., we help individuals and families in Miami with immigration matters. With over 25 years of combined experience, our attorneys understand green card eligibility, requirements and filing procedures. We approach every case with personal attention to guide you confidentially from start to finish.

What Is A Green Card?

A green card, also known as a Permanent Resident Card, is an official document that grants a non-U.S. citizen the right to live and work permanently in the United States.

With a green card, you will enjoy benefits such as:

• The ability to live anywhere in the U.S.
• Permission to legally work for any employer
• Access to public education and healthcare
• Pathway to U.S. citizenship after meeting residency requirements

It also allows you to travel more freely in and out of the country, though certain guidelines must be followed to maintain your status.

Types Of Green Cards

There are several different categories of green cards based on how you qualify. They include:

Family-Based Green Cards

These are for close relatives of U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents. Immediate relatives such as spouses, parents and children receive priority, while more distant family members fall under family preference categories.

Employment-Based Green Cards

These are divided into five preference categories:

• EB-1: Priority workers with extraordinary ability
• EB-2: Professionals with advanced degrees or exceptional ability
• EB-3: Skilled workers, professionals and other workers
• EB-4: Special immigrants, including certain religious workers
• EB-5: Investors who create U.S. jobs

Work with an experienced immigration attorney to help ensure your application is properly prepared and positioned for success.

Diversity Visa (DV) Lottery Green Cards

This program is for individuals from countries with historically low immigration rates to the United States of America. Selected applicants can apply for permanent residency through a lottery system.

Refugee Or Asylum-Based Green Cards

Those granted asylum or refugee status can apply for a green card after one year of living in the U.S. No matter your category, our attorneys can help determine the best path forward for your situation.

Who Qualifies For A Green Card?

Eligibility for a green card depends on various factors, including:

• Age, education and work experience: Certain categories, especially employment-based visas, require proof of qualifications and background.
• Medical and background checks: All applicants must pass a medical exam and undergo background screening.
• Language proficiency and civics requirements: While not always required for green cards, these factors may become important if you plan to apply for U.S. citizenship.
• Documentation and filing requirements: Accurate paperwork, supporting documents and timely filings are critical for approval.

We take a hands-on approach to preparing and reviewing every part of your application to avoid common mistakes and delays.

What Is The Green Card Process?

Obtaining a green card involves the following steps:

• Filing Form I-485: This form, known as the Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, is central to most green card applications.
• Submitting supporting documents and evidence: You must submit personal identification, proof of eligibility and sometimes affidavits or employer letters.
• Attending biometric services appointments and interviews: You will be required to provide fingerprints and attend a personal interview with an immigration officer.
• Receiving a decision on the application: After review, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will approve, deny or request additional evidence.

Our attorneys are here to help you understand each phase and prepare you for interactions with immigration officials.

Why Choose The Law Offices of Sandra Echevarria, P.A.?

Our firm offers these and other valuable advantages:

• Extensive experience: With more than 25 years of combined legal service, we bring in-depth knowledge to every case.
• Personalized legal support: We do not offer one-size-fits-all solutions.
• Local focus, national reach: Based in Miami, we serve clients throughout South Florida and beyond.

Whether you are applying through a family member, an employer or another qualifying route, we can help ensure the process is seamless.

Call Today

If you are in Miami and are looking for an immigration attorney to guide you through the process, reach out to the Law Offices of Sandra Echevarria, P.A., for help. Call us at 786-807-6301 or fill out the online form and let our experienced lawyers guide you.