A visa is a temporary permission to enter or remain in the U.S. A green card grants you lawful permanent residency, meaning you can live and work in the U.S. indefinitely. After three to five years as a permanent resident, you may also become eligible to apply for U.S. citizenship.
Chicago Immigration Attorney
Мы говорим по русски
Chicago Green Card Lawyer
Sverdloff Law Group
Green Cards
A green card represents more than a document. It is your path to stability, belonging, and a future rooted in the United States. Whether you are waiting to reunite with family, build a career, or simply live without fear of losing your status, getting there is rarely simple. At Sverdloff Law Group, we are here to guide you through every stage of the process.
Who We Help
The U.S. government issues over one million green cards (formerly known as the Permanent Resident Card or Form I-551) each year, but every applicant must meet certain requirements to be eligible. We work with individuals and families across a wide range of situations, including:
- Spouses and children of U.S. citizens or Lawful Permanent Residents (LPRs) who want to establish permanent residency and reunite with the people they love.
- Foreign nationals sponsored by a U.S. employer who need experienced legal support to meet strict Department of Labor and USCIS requirements.
- Asylum grantees and refugees who are now eligible to apply for a green card and are ready to take that next step.
- Diversity Visa Lottery winners who need help submitting a complete and timely application before the window closes.
- Individuals with past complications, such as a prior visa overstay, a criminal record, or a previously denied application, who need a strong legal advocate in their corner.
No matter where you are in your immigration journey, we are ready to assess your case and help you find a clear path forward.
Common Legal Challenges You May Face
The green card process is rarely straightforward. Even well-prepared applicants run into setbacks. Here are some of the most common issues we help clients work through:
Requests for Evidence (RFEs) and Notices of Intent to Deny (NOIDs)
USCIS may request additional documentation or signal that it plans to deny your application. These notices can feel alarming, but responding promptly and thoroughly is critical. We help you build a strong response.
Prior Visa Overstays or Unlawful Presence
If you have stayed in the U.S. beyond your authorized period, you may face bars on reentry or additional scrutiny. An I-601 waiver may be an option, and we can help you understand whether you qualify.
Criminal History or Grounds of Inadmissibility
Even a minor conviction can affect your eligibility. We review your history carefully and advise you on any waivers or alternative strategies available.
Lost or Mishandled Documents
Government agencies sometimes lose paperwork. When that happens, you may receive confusing requests for documents you already submitted. We track your case closely and respond quickly on your behalf.
Adjustment of Status vs. Consular Processing
Deciding whether to apply for. visa from inside or outside the U.S. depends on your current immigration status and circumstances. We help you choose the right path and prepare accordingly.
Conditional Green Cards and I-751 Petitions
If you received a two-year conditional green card through marriage, you must file to remove those conditions. Missing this deadline or submitting an incomplete petition can put your status at risk.
Why Choose Sverdloff Law Group
The U.S. immigration system is, as many of our clients put it, complex and scary. We understand that, and we do not take it lightly.
Attorney Julia Sverdloff is an immigrant herself. She knows firsthand what it means to build a life in a new country, and that experience shapes how she and her team approach every case. We treat each client as an individual, not a file number.
Here is what sets us apart:
- Focused immigration practice: We handle immigration law exclusively. That means deeper knowledge and sharper attention for your case.
- Proven track record: We have successfully resolved cases that had stalled for years, including complex adjustment of status petitions and difficult asylum cases.
- Multilingual team: Our firm speaks Ukrainian, Russian, Serbian, Croatian, Bosnian, and Spanish. Clear communication is not an afterthought for us.
- Nationwide reach: While our offices are in Chicago and Northbrook, we serve clients in all 50 states.
We are your legal ally, and your success is our mission.
Schedule Your Consultation Today
You do not have to figure this out alone. Whether you are just starting the process or facing a serious obstacle, our team is ready to listen, assess your situation, and help you understand your options.
Call us or schedule a consultation online. It is fast, easy, and the right first move toward the future you are working for.
Frequently Asked Questions about Green Cards
How long does the green card process take?
Processing times vary widely depending on your category and country of birth. Immediate relatives of U.S. citizens generally have faster timelines. Other family preference categories can involve wait times of several years due to annual visa caps.
What is the difference between adjustment of status and consular processing?
Adjustment of status allows you to apply for a green card while you are already inside the U.S. Consular processing is used when you are applying from outside the country. The right option depends on your current status and location, and our green card attorneys can help you decide which route makes sense for you.
Can I apply for a green card if I have a criminal record?
Possibly. Certain convictions can make a person inadmissible, but waivers may be available depending on the nature of the offense and your relationship to a qualifying relative. We review each case individually to identify your options.
What happens if my green card application is denied?
A denial is not necessarily the end of the road. Depending on the reason for the denial, you may be able to appeal the decision, file a motion to reopen or reconsider, or reapply with a stronger submission. We help you understand your options and fight for the outcome you deserve.
What is a conditional green card, and what do I need to do?
If you received a green card through a marriage that was less than two years old at the time of approval, USCIS will issue a two-year conditional green card. Before it expires, you must file Form I-751 to remove the conditions and obtain a permanent card. Missing this deadline can put your status in jeopardy.
Do I need a lawyer to apply for a green card?
The law does not require it, but the stakes are high and the process is detailed. A single mistake or missed deadline can lead to delays, denials, or worse. Having an experienced attorney review your case from the start greatly reduces that risk.
Helping You Realize Your Dreams for a New Life in the United States
Our immigration attorneys will fight to ensure that you receive the best outcome in your immigration case.
Julia Sverdloff, Esq.
Attorney Julia Sverdloff is the founder and owner of Sverdloff Law Group in Chicago, Illinois. Our firm speaks Ukranian, Russian, Serbian, Croatian, Bosnian and Spanish.
Every Dream Should Be Realized.
Let Us Help You Accomplish Yours.
Reviews
Words From Our
Clients
Reviews from our clients from around the world.
Very knowledgeable attorney. I had the chance to work with many attorneys last ten years. Julia was most knowledgeable and helpful. She got the job done right. Thank you. Read More
Mirrakhim
Julia and her team were purely amazing throughout my adjustment of status process. I had one of the most difficult cases any lawyer can handle, and Julia was actually my 3rd lawyer in 12 years. I can't thank her enough for taking the time, and efforts to execute this task… Read More
Bassel George Diebo, MD
Before meeting Julia and her team, I met many lawyers, but I could not find a better and more professional than Julia Sverdloff. Julia and her team are the best of the best. This team goes to the victorious finish and does not abandon its clients halfway! With this team,… Read More
Atmir K.
Julia's help was invaluable. She is very professional, knowledgeable, straightforward, fast, and empathetic. She was able to solve a green card issue I had been dealing with for 5,5 years in 4 months and helped me with the naturalization process as well. She prepared me thoroughly for the interview, and… Read More
Veronique
I’ve worked with Julia and her team on multiple cases, and every time the experience has been absolutely great. Julia is incredibly knowledgeable, professional, and supportive, honestly the best immigration attorney in Chicago. I came to them through a friend’s recommendation and have since recommended them to others. Everyone I… Read More
Anastasia S.
Julia, Chris, and everyone on the team are so knowledgeable about immigration-related matters. Julia is very kind, caring, and genuinely cares. Chris is so reliable, answers emails on time, and answers all questions thoroughly, and you can tell they take good care of every case. So glad I chose them… Read More
aiswary
Julia Sverdloff is an amazing attorney who genuinely cares about her clients and is willing to work with you. She will tailor to your specific needs and make sure you take all the right steps. 10/10 would recommend! Read More
Luka
I had an overall positive experience working with this law firm. My case was not the simplest, and there were a few mix-ups and minor issues along the way, but whenever I brought something to their attention, the team was responsive and worked with me to get it corrected. I… Read More
Alex
I am incredibly grateful to Sverdloff Law Group, Julia, and her entire team for everything they did for me. Thanks to their professionalism, dedication, and support, I was able to win my case. A very special thank you to Kristen Coffey. She was always by my side throughout the entire… Read More
Nikolay
Thanks for the help; the communication is excellent, and you can get information or clarification on pretty much anything at almost any time, thanks. Read More
MTN
I had a consultation with attorney Julia Sverdloff because I had a lot of questions about my immigration case. I’m really happy I decided to schedule it. Julia answered every question I had and explained everything in a way that was easy to understand. I left the consultation knowing exactly… Read More
Ana
I had a wonderful experience working with Sverdloff Law Group, and I’m especially grateful to Julia. She was incredibly helpful during our interview calls, making sure I felt prepared and supported. She kept me informed every step of the way, always responding promptly and professionally. Thanks to the team's efficient… Read More
Aliya A.
As an immigration attorney, I have had the pleasure of knowing Julia Sverdloff and can confidently recommend her. She is exceptionally knowledgeable, highly competent, and deeply committed to her clients. Her professionalism, organization, and attention to detail consistently stand out, as does her compassion and responsiveness. Julia approaches every case… Read More
Steve B.
Julia Sverdloff helped me throughout my asylum interview process, and I cannot recommend her highly enough. She doesn't just represent her clients—she truly fights for them. Julia is incredibly professional, knowledgeable, and detail-oriented. She carefully prepares every aspect of the case and helps build the strongest possible strategy for a… Read More
Irina N.
Will recommend for immigration and family base. Reasonable pricing and nice assistance. Read More
Darya M.
Julia represented me in court. She came to the hearing with another attorney, but she was present throughout my defense, and we won my case. Thank you! Read More
Aleksandra S.
I highly recommend Sverdloff Law Group. Julia was very professional, helpful, and supportive during my entire immigration process. She always answered my questions clearly and helped me understand every step. Thanks to her hard work, I successfully received my permanent resident card (green card). I truly appreciate her patience, kindness,… Read More
Christian C.
Had a consultation with Julia and she was extremely patient and thoughtful. All of my questions and concerns were answered thoroughly, and I really appreciated the follow-up afterward as well. Thank you for such a great experience! Read More
Anastasia A.
Sverdloff Law Group,P.C; Thank you so much for the outstanding support you provided in assisting us. Your professionalism, patience, and clear communication made a difficult or impossible situation much easier. I and my family are truly grateful for your kindness and support. God bless you all. Kristen Coffey I can’t… Read More
Justin M.
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