Immigration Attorney

Are you or a family member facing immigration issues?

When you’re dealing with problems in the immigration process, like deportation or getting a green card, life is often stressful. Families are separated, you could face legal consequences, and your loved ones’ futures are uncertain. The U.S. immigration system is extremely complex and challenging to navigate if you’re unfamiliar with it. The good news is that a local immigration attorney can help walk you through the process, resolve many immigration issues, and advance your case faster than you could on your own. Call on the legal services of a law firm with a team of experienced immigration lawyers. We’re dedicated to achieving the best possible outcome for you and your family.

Immigration Law: Who Can Legally Live and Work in the U.S.?

U.S. immigration law regulates who can legally work or even live in the country. A few different statuses allow a person to obtain housing, work, and even government benefits in the United States.

U.S. Citizens

Those who are citizens of the United States have the highest level of rights and benefits in the country.

A U.S. citizen is someone who was:

• Born in the U.S. or a U.S. territory
• Born to or adopted by a U.S. citizen
• Acquired citizenship through the naturalization process
• Acquired citizenship through a Consular Report of Birth Abroad

Lawful Permanent Residents

A lawful permanent resident is someone who applied for and obtained a green card.

These individuals are often those who:

• Have extraordinary abilities in their field of employment
• Are investing in qualifying U.S. companies
• Were granted refugee or asylum status
• Are family members of current permanent residents or U.S. citizens

Visa Holders

The two primary categories of U.S. visas are immigrant and non-immigrant visas. Non-immigrant visas are temporary and give non-citizens temporary presence in the U.S. An immigrant visa is granted for those looking to eventually live permanently in the U.S. They are usually the first step toward getting a green card. In contrast, a non-immigrant visa is used for temporary travel to the country. The U.S. government only makes a limited number of visas available at any given time, and law offices with extensive experience in immigration can help increase your chances of gaining one.

Complicated Situations in the Immigration Process

Immigration is a complex issue in the United States, which naturally makes way for a host of problems for those trying to navigate the immigration process.

Here are some of the most common issues U.S. immigrants face.

Language Barriers and Application Process Confusion

The immigration process is already complicated and involves heavy amounts of paperwork. It’s enough to make even a fluent English speaker confused and concerned. Complex applications are one of the most challenging aspects of the process overall. Furthermore, if English is a second language, it’s common for a person to struggle even more with the extensive paperwork.

Denied Visa Green Card Applications

Not every application for residency or citizenship is approved in the U.S. When your application gets denied, it can seem hopeless. However, some appeals and waivers can be filed to attempt to gain approval.

Criminal Charges and Deportation

Deportation could happen if a person violates their visa conditions, is deemed a danger to public safety, or commits a criminal act.