My Journey to Getting a Green Card in the USA 🌱

In June of this year, I finally received my green card. It’s a moment that feels surreal after such a long and challenging journey. I have so much to share about this experience, but I’ve struggled to find the time to sit down and write it all out. Today, I’ve decided to share my story in hopes of helping others who are still awaiting their green cards.

The Application Process

When I first submitted my application, I was still a student, and I remember feeling relatively relaxed. I would check processing times online every day and watch the waiting period shrink, which brought me a certain peace of mind.

However, everything changed after graduation when I was ready to start working but realized I didn’t have a work permit. Suddenly, I was stuck. This led to feelings of anxiety and despair. I joked that I was like a “grieving spouse,” constantly refreshing the USCIS website for updates. The processing times fluctuated from “two weeks” to “two months,” and back again.

Taking Action

I made countless phone calls, wrote numerous letters, and even reached out to my congressional representative’s office for community service. I even hired a lawyer for help, but still, I saw no significant progress.

After much deliberation, my lawyer suggested filing a federal lawsuit against USCIS. Let me alleviate your fears: this type of lawsuit doesn’t involve a courtroom battle. Instead, it compels the immigration agency to examine and process your case. The results were astounding!

Unexpected Breakthrough

Shortly after filing the lawsuit, I received a notice instructing me to resubmit my medical exam report—my original report had expired because I’d waited so long. This was concrete proof that my case had not been attended to at all. Without the lawsuit, I might have had to wait another three or four years!

Once I submitted the new medical report, everything moved along smoothly, and I received my green card soon after, even exempt from an interview.

A Message to Those Waiting

My experience taught me that if your case has been sitting beyond the average waiting time, yet hasn’t reached the legal limit, it might be worthwhile to consult with a lawyer about filing a lawsuit. This action can force USCIS to reassess your case instead of letting it linger indefinitely.

We all understand the torture of waiting for your status abroad—the uncertainty, helplessness, and anxiety that come with it. I hope my journey provides some guidance and hope. If you are also feeling anxious about your green card status or would like to know more about the lawsuit process, please feel free to leave a comment or send me a private message. I am here to help!

We’re all navigating through tough times, but remember—if we take action, our green cards will respond in kind! 🌱

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