Issues Preventing Green Card Approval

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For lawful permanent residence in the United States for a non-U.S. citizen to be granted, the applicant must apply for a green card. This is one of the most well-known elements of the immigration field, and at Buhler Thomas Law, P.C., we offer comprehensive services related to green card applications.

Unfortunately, there are a number of reasons why a green card application might be denied. Preventing these items from being present is important if you or a loved one is applying for immigration approval. Here are some of the most common issues, plus how to avoid them.

Health

A medical exam report is one item that’s required for lawful permanent resident status. It’s an exam performed by a government-approved doctor, and negative results can lead to a denial of your application. Negative results can include communicable diseases dangerous to the public, lack of vaccinations, drug abuse or addiction, or physical and mental disorders that threaten yourself or others.

Legal and Security Status

Certain types of crimes will deny a green card application, including drug trafficking, prostitution, money laundering, fraud and several others. In addition, if you’re entering the country in order to violate securities laws or engage in terrorist efforts or any effort adverse to U.S. foreign policy, this will lead to denial.

Public Charge

This is a status where you’re viewed as likely to become dependent on the U.S. government for care or financial support during your residency. This is based on a review of your health, assets, family status, education and resources available. If someone has signed an affidavit of support for you, however, being found to be a public charge is very unlikely.

Application and Technical Requirements

Green card application requires a number of different forms, fees and documents, part of the reason you employ our immigration attorneys. These requirements may vary depending on specific status items, and can be torpedoed if you fail to attend required appointments. There are also cases where underlying visa petitions are denied.

Decision-Maker Error

No one is perfect, and the officials at USCIS and the consulates might make a mistake from time to time. For this reason, it’s vital to review any denial notice very carefully with your attorney, to see if a factual mistake was the reason behind it.

To learn more about common reasons for green card denial, or to schedule a consultation, contact Buhler Thomas Law, P.C. today.

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Kim was a beacon of clarity during a frustrating and confusing process. I initially tried to file our marriage green card application on my own and only realized later that I had submitted just one of several required forms. I was overwhelmed and worried I’d make serious mistakes. From the moment we started working with Kim, everything changed. She answered all our questions with patience, simplified the entire process, and brought us peace of mind. She even met with us on Christmas Eve to help finalize our packet so we could submit it ASAP. When we got our interview notice, she responded quickly—scheduling a late-night Zoom call to walk us through what to expect and gave us a detailed checklist to stay organized. Thanks to her guidance, we felt confident and prepared—and the interview went smoothly. Kim is not just a knowledgeable attorney, but a kind and supportive person who genuinely cares about her clients. We’re so grateful for her help and can’t recommend her enough!
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