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630-392-8101 | 630-392-8101
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IL 60540

Call Us Today

630-392-8101 | 630-392-8101
info@kasturilaw.com

Receiving a denial on your green card application can feel devastating, especially if you’ve waited months or years in hopes of building your life in the U.S. But a denial doesn’t always mean the end of the road. In many cases, it’s a sign that something went wrong in the process—something that may be fixable.

At Kasturi Law, LLC, our immigration and naturalization attorney helps Illinois residents understand why their green card application was denied, and more importantly, what to do next.

After Green Card cancel personal refilling visa application

Why Green Card Applications Are Denied

There are several reasons why U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) might deny a green card application. Identifying the specific issue in your case is the first step toward taking the proper corrective action.

They may include, but are not limited to:

  • Missing or Incomplete Information

One of the most common reasons for denial is failing to include required documents or complete all forms accurately. USCIS will not approve a petition missing supporting evidence, signatures, or proper filing fees.

  • Inadmissibility Grounds

Certain criminal convictions, immigration violations, or health-related issues can make you “inadmissible” under U.S. immigration law.

This includes:

  • Prior deportation or removal orders.
  • Overstaying a visa.
  • Certain communicable diseases.
  • Fraud or misrepresentation in a previous immigration case.
  • Public Charge Concerns

If USCIS believes you may become dependent on government assistance, they may deny your application based on the public charge grounds of inadmissibility, especially if your sponsor cannot provide adequate financial support.

  • Relationship-Based Issues

For family-based green cards, USCIS will evaluate whether the relationship is genuine. The application could be denied if your marriage or family connection seems questionable or lacks strong supporting evidence.

  • Mistakes in the Interview or Medical Exam

Failing to bring the correct documents, giving inconsistent answers, or refusing required vaccinations during the medical exam can also result in a denial.

What to Do If Your Green Card Is Denied

The denial notice from USCIS should explain the reason for the decision.

Once you know the cause, you have a few potential options:

  • File a Motion to Reopen or Reconsider (MTR): If you believe the denial was based on an error or have new evidence, you may be able to ask USCIS to review the decision.
  • Appeal the Decision: You can sometimes file an appeal with the Administrative Appeals Office (AAO), especially if the denial involved a family- or employment-based petition.
  • Reapply with a Stronger Case: Sometimes the best route is to fix the issue and reapply with complete documentation, more substantial evidence, and legal guidance.
  • Request a Waiver: If inadmissibility is the issue, you may be eligible for a waiver based on hardship to a qualifying U.S. relative.

Don’t Navigate a Denial Alone—We Can Help

At Kasturi Law, LLC, we understand how stressful a green card denial can be. We work with clients across Illinois to review USCIS decisions, uncover what went wrong, and chart a path forward. Whether it’s filing a motion, preparing a waiver, or reapplying correctly, we’ll help you move forward confidently.

Contact Kasturi Law, LLC, today to schedule a consultation and explore your next steps after a green card denial during an in-person meeting, a phone call, or a Zoom session. You can also schedule a consultation directly using our online calendar, choosing between 30-minute or 60-minute timeframes.

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