{"id":352906,"date":"2022-08-19T07:42:53","date_gmt":"2022-08-19T12:42:53","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/content.findlaw-admin.com\/ability-law\/immigration\/visas\/the-green-card-process-do-s-and-don-ts.html"},"modified":"2026-06-08T13:13:50","modified_gmt":"2026-06-08T18:13:50","slug":"the-green-card-process-do-s-and-don-ts","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/immigration\/visas\/the-green-card-process-do-s-and-don-ts.html","title":{"rendered":"The Green Card Process: Do’s and Don’ts"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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The Green Card Process: Do's and Don'ts<\/h1>\n\n
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\n By Lyle Therese A. Hilotin-Lee, J.D.<\/a> | Legally reviewed by Meagan Neil, Esq.<\/a>\n | Last updated\n
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This article has been written and reviewed for legal accuracy, clarity, and style by FindLaw\u2019s team of legal writers and attorneys<\/a> and in accordance with our editorial standards<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n <\/div>\n <\/details>\n\n

\n \n <\/i>\n Fact-Checked\n <\/summary>\n\n
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The last updated date refers to the last time this article was reviewed by FindLaw or one of our contributing authors<\/a>. We make every effort to keep our articles updated. For information regarding a specific legal issue affecting you, please contact an attorney in your area<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n <\/div>\n <\/details>\n<\/section>\n\n\n

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Navigating the green card process involves understanding crucial do’s and don’ts to avoid pitfalls that could jeopardize your application. The process requires careful attention to USCIS form instructions, complete documentation, and maintaining good moral character by avoiding criminal activities or extended absences from the U.S. Adhering to these rules helps protect your immigration status.<\/p>\n\n <\/div>\n\n\n\n

Knowing the essential do’s and don’ts of the U.S. green card process can be the difference between a successful permanent residency application and deportation. This article provides an easy-to-understand guide to earning your permanent resident card. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

For those adjusting their immigration status, the U.S. Department of State’s Visa Bulletin<\/a> is also an essential source of information. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website can help you keep track of monthly bulletins from the Department of State. The Visa Bulletin provides information about the availability of immigrant visas, priority dates, and more.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

You can also work with an immigration attorney<\/a> one-on-one. A lawyer can provide essential legal guidance tailored to your situation and immigration goals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Green Card Process: The Do’s<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Follow the tips below for the best chance at a successful green card application.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Do Follow the Instructions on USCIS Forms<\/b><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This is especially important if you seek a waiver for admissibility or apply for employment authorization. Failure to follow instructions<\/a> could extend your wait time and delay the processing of your visa. It could even result in an application rejection.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Do Attach All Necessary Documents<\/b><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Attach all the documents required by the forms. Provide appropriate translations where necessary. USCIS will usually not process the forms if documents are missing. To avoid delays in your application, it is essential to submit all requirements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Do Follow USCIS Photo Instructions<\/b><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Be sure to review the photograph instructions<\/a>. Your local USCIS office may even have an on-site photographer. You can also visit the U.S. embassy website in your home country for further guidance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Do Ask for Help When Needed<\/b><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Access the USCIS website<\/a> for more information about immigration law and adjustment of status<\/a>. The updates on these government websites are particularly relevant if you are applying for advance parole. Advance parole permits noncitizens to return to their home country without abandoning a green card application.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

You can also seek legal advice from an immigration attorney near you<\/a>. They can provide guidance specific to your case. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Do Use an Interpreter if Necessary<\/b><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Bring an interpreter if you or a family member is not fluent in English. During the adjustment interview, an applicant may bring an interpreter. The officer, however, may also disqualify interpreters if they believe the integrity of the process is compromised.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Do Seek Legal Advice From an Immigration Attorney<\/b><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Getting legal help from an immigration lawyer<\/a> can be crucial in some situations. This is important if you have been previously denied entry to the United States, deported, convicted of a crime, or overstayed a visa. If you are currently in the country illegally, an attorney can help you on the road to legal immigration status. You should also speak with a lawyer if you have ever made misrepresentations to the USCIS.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Do Tell Your Attorney About Any Past Immigration Issues<\/b><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

<\/b>Tell your attorney about any immigration issues you had in the past. Those include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n