Passionate and Knowledgeable Green Card Lawyer Helping Families Reunite
At MCD Immigration Law, P.C., we understand the life-changing impact of securing lawful permanent residency in the United States. As your dedicated green card attorney, Mabel Covarrubias-Doucette offers compassionate, knowledgeable support to individuals and families across Salem and Massachusetts.
A green card allows you to live and work in the U.S. permanently—and may open the door to citizenship if you meet the requirements. Let us help you take the next step toward building your future here.
Who is Eligible for a Green Card?
At MCD Immigration Law, P.C., experienced green card lawyer Mabel Covarrubias-Doucette is here to help you navigate the process with clarity and care. She’ll review your circumstances, explain your eligibility, and guide you toward the best path forward.
Eligibility for a green card can be achieved through various pathways. Here are some of the common categories:
Green card through family: You may be eligible if you are a close relative of a U.S. citizen or a current green card holder.
Green card through employment: This category includes immigrants who are offered permanent employment in the U.S.
Green card as a special immigrant: Certain immigrants, such as religious workers or international broadcasters, fall under this category.
Green card through refugee or asylee status: If you were admitted as a refugee or granted asylum, you may apply for a green card.
Green card for human trafficking and crime victims: Victims of crimes such as human trafficking who assist in the investigation or prosecution of criminal activity may qualify for a green card.
Green card for victims of abuse: This includes abused spouses, children, or parents under certain visa categories.
Green card through other categories: Other, less common categories might apply to your situation.
Green card through registry: Individuals who have lived continuously in the U.S. since before January 1, 1972, may apply.
While the green card process may seem straightforward, even small mistakes or missing details can lead to delays—or denial. That’s why working with an experienced immigration attorney is essential.
At MCD Immigration Law, P.C., Mabel Covarrubias-Doucette stays current on every change in immigration law and provides step-by-step guidance tailored to your unique situation. She’ll make sure you understand each phase and are fully prepared for what comes next.
Here’s a simplified overview of the green card application process—but remember, your path may vary based on your category and background.
How to get a Green Card
What to do if your Green Card Application is Denied?
A green card denial can feel discouraging—but it’s not the end of the road. There are still options available, and acting quickly is key.
At MCD Immigration Law, P.C., our Salem-based green card lawyer, Mabel Covarrubias-Doucette, understands how important timing and strategy are in these situations. She’ll help you review the denial, explore your legal options, and determine the best path forward.
Whether it’s filing a motion, submitting a new application, or considering alternative immigration routes, we’re here to guide you with clarity and compassion.
Several options are available if your green card application is denied:
Step 1: Confirm Your Eligibility
Review the green card categories to see which one fits your situation.
Step 2: Find a Sponsor
Most applicants need a sponsor—such as a family member or employer—to file a petition. In some cases, you can file on your own.
Step 3: Petition Approval
Once your petition is approved by USCIS, you’ll apply for an immigrant visa through the U.S. Department of State.
Step 4: Apply for a Green Card
After your visa is approved, you can apply for lawful permanent residency with USCIS.
Step 5: Biometrics Appointment
USCIS will collect your fingerprints, photo, and signature.
Step 6: Attend Your Interview
You’ll meet with a USCIS officer to review your application and documents.
Step 7: Final Decision
USCIS will approve or deny your green card application.
The Green Card Renewal Process
Permanent residents must renew their green cards every 10 years to maintain a valid proof of status. While the renewal process is generally straightforward, delays or errors can lead to complications. Steps in the renewal process include:
Filing Form I-90: Submit the form online or by mail, ideally six months before your current green card expires.
Biometrics appointment: You may be asked to appear for fingerprinting and photos at a local USCIS office.
USCIS review: This step can take several months. You will receive updates through your USCIS account or by mail.
Receiving your new card: Once approved, your updated green card will be mailed to your address.
Some of the potential issues include:
Missed appointments
Address changes
Prior criminal convictions
Travel restrictions if your card expires before renewal is complete
File an appeal: You can request the Administrative Appeals Office (AAO) to review the denial. This is only possible in specific cases, and the appeal must usually be filed within 30 days.
Submit a motion to reopen or reconsider: You can ask USCIS to review the decision based on new evidence or a legal error in the original review.
Reapply with the corrected information: If the denial resulted from missing documentation or procedural mistakes, reapplying may be your best path forward.
If you're planning to live in the United States long-term, it's essential to understand the difference between a green card and a visa. Each option offers distinct benefits and limitations, and choosing the right path depends on your personal goals and circumstances.
At MCD Immigration Law, P.C., we help you navigate these choices with clarity and confidence. Whether you're seeking permanent residency or temporary status, we’ll guide you toward the solution that fits your future.
Green Card VS. Visa
The key differences are:
Purpose: Visas allow temporary entry for work, study, or tourism. Green cards grant permanent residency.
Duration: Visas expire after a set time. Green cards last 10 years and can lead to citizenship.
Rights: Green card holders can work and live permanently in the U.S. Visa holders may have employment or travel restrictions.
Responsibilities: Green card holders must file U.S. taxes and maintain residency. Visa holders must follow the terms of their specific visa.
Marriage Green Card: What to Know About Removing Conditions
If your green card was granted based on a marriage that was less than two years old at the time of application, your status in the United States is considered conditional. This conditional status is a precautionary measure by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to help prevent fraudulent marriages solely to gain immigration benefits.
Conditional residency grants you the same rights as a permanent resident, such as working and traveling in and out of the U.S. However, it only lasts for two years. To continue living in the U.S. beyond this period, you must take steps to make your residency permanent before your conditional residency expires. Attorney Mabel Covarrubias-Doucette can help you remove these conditions.
Failing to remove the conditions on your green card can have serious consequences, including losing your resident status and having to leave the United States. Therefore, it is important to understand this process and act promptly.
