What is the procedure for becoming a permanent resident in US when person legal immigrant?

The procedure for becoming a permanent resident in the United States when a person is a legal immigrant generally involves the following steps:

1. Eligibility:

- You must be a legal immigrant, meaning you have a valid immigrant visa or have been granted parole.

- Certain family-based and employment-based categories of visas allow individuals to apply for a green card (permanent residency) through adjustment of status without needing to go through consular processing abroad.

2. File a Petition:

- If you are eligible, your sponsor, usually a family member or employer, will file a petition, such as Form I-130 for family-based or Form I-140 for employment-based on your behalf with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

3. Adjustment of Status:

- Once the petition is approved, you can apply to adjust your immigration status from a non-immigrant to permanent resident. This is typically done through Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status.

- You must submit this application while physically present in the United States.

4. Biometric Data and Medical Exam:

- Along with your adjustment of status application, you must submit biometric data (fingerprints, photographs, etc.) and undergo an immigration medical exam.

5. Interview:

- Depending on your case and category, you may be required to attend an interview at a USCIS field office.

- The interview is an opportunity for the immigration officer to verify your eligibility and review any potential inadmissibility issues.

6. Decision and Green Card:

- After the interview or document review, USCIS will adjudicate your application.

- If your application is approved, you will receive a Conditional Permanent Resident (CR-1) card valid for two years if your residency is based on marriage within 24 months of arrival in U.S. or a permanent Resident Card (green card), which is valid for 10 years.

It's important to note that the process can be complex and may vary based on individual circumstances and the specific visa category. The assistance of an immigration attorney is recommended to ensure accurate completion and submission of required forms and documentation.