Blog Category | Immigration
September 27, 2025
H-2A Temporary Agricultural Workers
The H-2A visa program permits U.S. employers to sponsor foreign nationals and bring them to the U.S. to fill temporary agricultural jobs. The U.S. employer must file a Form I-129, Petition for Nonimmigrant Worker, on behalf of the prospective employee. The U.S. employer must meet the following criteria: Offer a...
Read MoreSeptember 18, 2025
What Immigration Statistics Reveal About Camp Hill
Many immigrants enter the United States at large ports of entry. Eventually, they may settle in much smaller communities. Camp Hill, Pennsylvania, is not a major metropolitan area. Still, there are already hundreds of immigrants who call the area home. Many of those immigrants have actually become naturalized citizens. People...
Read MoreSeptember 11, 2025
E-1 Visa
An E-1 visa is a nonimmigrant visa classification that is reserved for nationals of a treaty country (a country with which the United States maintains a treaty of commerce and navigation). E-1 visa holders are admitted into the United States to conduct international trade activities. In certain cases, employees of...
Read MoreSeptember 10, 2025
U Visas
The U visa is a nonimmigrant visa available to victims of certain crimes who have assisted in the investigation or prosecution of the perpetrator of the crime to which the immigrant was the victim. To qualify for a U visa, the immigrant must meet the following criteria: The immigrant victim...
Read MoreAugust 27, 2025
Cancellation of Removal
What is Cancellation of Removal? Cancellation of Removal is a form of relief available to lawful permanent residents (LPRs) or certain non-LPR residents who are in removal proceedings and facing deportation. It allows eligible LPRs or certain non-LPRs to request the immigration judge to cancel their removal and allow them...
Read MoreAugust 23, 2025
Student/Minor
DACA update – July 2021 DACA Overview Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) J-1 Visa J-1 Visa Waivers M Visas for Vocational or Nonacademic Programs OPT and STEM OPT Optional Practical Training (OPT) and Immigration in the US Student Visas Special Immigrant Juvenile Status (SIJS)
Read MoreAugust 08, 2025
Notice to Appear
What is a Notice to Appear? A Notice to Appear (NTA) is a legal document issued by the United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to initiate removal proceedings against a foreign national who is believed to be in violation of immigration laws. It serves as a formal notification to...
Read MoreAugust 06, 2025
T Visa: Victims of Human Trafficking
The T visa is a special type of nonimmigrant visa that is available to victims of human trafficking who are in the United States. It allows victims to remain in the U.S. and assist law enforcement authorities in the investigation or prosecution of human trafficking cases. Who is eligible for...
Read MoreAugust 03, 2025
How to Obtain an ITIN for Tax Filing in the US
For individuals in the United States who are not eligible for a Social Security Number (SSN), obtaining an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) is a requirement for filing taxes and complying with tax obligations in the U.S. An ITIN is a unique nine-digit tax processing number issued by the Internal...
Read MoreJuly 26, 2025
Medical Waivers in Green Card Applications
If an intending immigrant is inadmissible to the United States for certain medical reasons, they may be able to obtain a medical waiver and then successfully apply for their green card. Waivers are discretionary; USCIS is not required to approve an immigrant’s waiver application. Medical waivers are available, in some...
Read MoreJuly 23, 2025
Violence Against Women Act (VAWA)
Contrary to its name, the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) is gender-neutral. Abused men, along with abused women, can file under this act. VAWA provides an avenue for lawful permanent residence (Green Cards) for victims of abuse such as battery or extreme cruelty at the hands of a: U.S. Citizen...
Read MoreJuly 22, 2025
Changing Venue in Immigration Court Proceedings
Often, individuals who are in removal proceedings move their residence while their cases are still pending, especially because removal proceedings are frequently initiated in the area where an individual first resides or is apprehended after crossing the border, which is not always where they end up living. It is very...
Read MoreJuly 21, 2025
TPS – Afghanistan
Afghanistan Designated for Temporary Protected Status
Read MoreJuly 18, 2025
Decoding the Visa Bulletin: Your Guide to Green Card Availability
The Visa Bulletin is an online document that is published by the U.S. Department of State (DOS) on a monthly basis. It provides valuable information regarding the availability of immigrant visas, categorizing them by preference category and country. Its purpose is to inform the public about the availability of immigrant...
Read MoreJuly 09, 2025
USCIS Expedite Request
USCIS expedite requests are requests to have an application or petition processed more quickly than the normal processing time. To make an expedite request, you can simply call the USCIS Contact Center at 800-375-5283. If your expedite request is granted, USCIS will take your application or petition out of date...
Read MoreJuly 06, 2025
ADIT Stamps
The ADIT (Alien Documentation, Identification and Telecommunication systems) stamp (also known as an I-551 stamp) is a stamp that is affixed to a page in one’s passport or on an I-94 card that serves as temporary proof of lawful permanent resident status. A lawful permanent resident (“LPR” or “green card”...
Read MoreJuly 03, 2025
VAWA: Petition for Abused Spouses, Children and Parents
In the family-based immigration process, U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents typically need to submit a petition on behalf of their noncitizen family members. Unfortunately, in some cases, petitioners may abuse their nonimmigrant family member or improperly exploit the immigration system by using the threat of withholding or withdrawing the...
Read MoreJune 19, 2025
J-1 Visa: Cultural Exchange and Skill Development in the United States
The J-1 visa is a unique and valuable program that promotes cultural exchange and skill development in the United States. Administered by the U.S. Department of State, the J-1 visa provides opportunities for foreign nationals to participate in a wide range of exchange programs, from academic and cultural exchanges to...
Read MoreJune 07, 2025
H-2A is a Resource for Temporary Agricultural Workers
The H2A visa is a nonimmigrant visa designed for U.S. employers to bring foreign workers to the U.S. to fill temporary or seasonal agricultural jobs when domestic labor is insufficient to meet the needs of the employer. The range of work for the H2A visa could be cultivating, planting, harvesting...
Read MoreJune 06, 2025
Uniting for Ukraine: Parole for Ukrainians
On April 21, 2022, the U.S. announced a new program entitled “Uniting for Ukraine.” Under Uniting for Ukraine, individuals in lawful status in the United States can now apply to sponsor displaced Ukrainians for temporary permission to enter and remain in the U.S. For this program, parole is being granted...
Read MoreJune 05, 2025
What New Lawful Permanent Residents Need to Know About Voting
If you are applying for or have just been granted Lawful Permanent Resident Status, then this article is for you! It is important to know that only U.S. Citizens are allowed to vote in federal or state elections in Pennsylvania (and most states). Lawful permanent residents are not allowed to...
Read MoreMay 29, 2025
Cuban Adjustment Act
The Cuban Adjustment Act (CAA) provides a special way for Cuban nationals who wish to immigrate to the United States to obtain their lawful permanent residence in the United States. Enacted in 1966, the CAA offers a pathway for Cuban citizens to adjust their status to lawful permanent residents after arriving...
Read MoreMay 28, 2025
TPS – Burma (Myanmar)
Burma (Myanmar) Designated for Temporary Protected Status
Read MoreMay 20, 2025
Immigration
U Visas Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) Commuter green cards Deferred Action For Childhood Arrivals (DACA) H-1B visas H-2A visas I Visas for representatives of foreign media J-1 Visas L-1A Process O Visas P-1 visas P-1 visas for entertainment groups R-1 visas Student Visas TN NAFTA professionals
Read MoreMay 17, 2025
I-212 (Time Bar) Waiver
The I-212 Waiver allows some individuals who would otherwise be barred from reentering the United States for a specified period of time (known as a period of inadmissibility or a “time bar”) to apply for permission to reapply for admission to the United States. The I-212 Waiver alone is not...
Read MoreMay 16, 2025
H-2B is a Resource for Temporary Non-Agricultural Workers
The H-2B and H-2A visas are programs to fill labor gaps in various industries in the United States. The H-2A visa is for agricultural sectors, while the H-2B visa is designed for temporary workers in non-agricultural industries. The H-2B visa program allows U.S. employers to bring in nonimmigrant workers for...
Read MoreMay 04, 2025
What Happens During Removal Proceedings?
When you are first notified that you have been put into removal proceedings, it can be terrifying. This article will give you an idea of what to expect during a typical removal proceeding. Notice to Appear (NTA) Removal proceedings are commenced upon the service of a document called a Notice...
Read MoreApril 23, 2025
Provisional Unlawful Presence(I-601A) Waiver
For individuals facing certain inadmissibility issues, such as unlawful presence, the immigration journey can be complex. This, known as the Provisional Unlawful Presence Waiver, is a vital tool that provides hope and a chance to overcome these obstacles. In this article, we will address the details of the Provisional Unlawful...
Read MoreApril 20, 2025
USCIS Ombudsman
The office of the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) Ombudsman is a part of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). USCIS Ombudsman does not have the power to make decisions on a particular case, but instead, they work to improve the process and address issues. One of the most...
Read MoreApril 16, 2025
How Does Your Criminal History Affect the Naturalization Application?
Having a criminal history may affect your naturalization application. While not all criminal convictions will make you ineligible for naturalization, certain crimes can seriously affect your immigration status and may lead to the denial of your naturalization application. The USCIS requires all applicants for naturalization to demonstrate good moral character...
Read MoreApril 09, 2025
Bond Hearing in Immigration Court
A bond hearing is one type of legal proceedings held before the immigration court. The immigration judge decides whether a detained individual is eligible for release from detention while he/she awaits the outcome of the removal proceedings. If eligible, the judge will set a bond amount that the individual must...
Read MoreApril 05, 2025
The Public Charge Rule
Background: The “Public Charge Rule” has been in the news a lot lately, and it’s caused a lot of concern for intending immigrants and their loved ones. While the Public Charge Rule is not new—it’s found in the Immigration and Nationality Act (the “INA”)—the United States Department of Homeland Security...
Read MoreApril 03, 2025
Green Card Interviews with USCIS
After an individual applies for his or her green card, they will be scheduled to appear before an immigration officer at the local USCIS office. The purpose of the interview is to determine the immigrant’s eligibility for the green card as well as to assess the applicant’s credibility. When the...
Read MoreMarch 27, 2025
U visa
Immigrants who are in the U.S. illegally may be hesitant to contact law enforcement officials due to a fear of deportation or other repercussions. Immigrants may not report crimes for which they are victims, of out of fear that their illegal immigration status will be revealed. The U visa was...
Read MoreMarch 12, 2025
Immigration Court 101: Hearing Types
If you have a case before an immigration court, and have already received a “Notice to Appear,” you are considered to be “in removal proceedings.” This means that legal proceedings have been initiated against you for the purpose of determining if you will ultimately be removed, or “deported,” from the...
Read MoreMarch 06, 2025
Visas
B1/B2 Visas Diversity Visas (Visa Lottery) EB-5 Investor Visa K-3 Visas L-1 Visas M Visas for Vocational or Nonacademic Programs NAFTA Professionals and TN Visas Premium Processing Optional Practical Training (OPT) and Immigration in the US Q Visas H1B Visas T Visa: Victims of Human Trafficking U visa
Read MoreMarch 03, 2025
Commuter Green Cards
There is an exception to the rule that all green card holders must reside in the United States. That exception is when an applicant is a resident of Canada or Mexico and travels from one of these countries to the United States on a daily or frequent basis for purposes...
Read MoreMarch 01, 2025
Documents required for the Green Card Process
When applying for your green card, whether in the United States or at a U.S. Embassy abroad, you will need to submit certain documents. Failure to provide the correct document issued by the correct agency or government department can result in a delay in the processing of your application or...
Read MoreFebruary 24, 2025
E-2 Visa Classification
An E-2 visa is a nonimmigrant visa classification that is reserved for treaty investors in the United States. It allows an individual to work in the United States based on his or her controlling investment in the United States. Individuals who are already in the United States and hold a...
Read MoreFebruary 22, 2025
TPS – Somalia
Somalia Designated for Temporary Protected Status
Read MoreFebruary 21, 2025
What Effect Will the New Trump Administration Have on my Immigration Case?
Every four years, we have clients who ask us what effect a new presidential administration might have on their immigration cases. The simple answer is that we can never be certain until the new administration starts to put policies in place and to champion legislation in Congress. However, we can...
Read MoreFebruary 20, 2025
Deferred Action For Childhood Arrivals
DACA was established in 2012 via the issuance of a Memorandum, “Exercising Prosecutorial Discretion with Respect to Individuals Who Came to the United States as Children.” This program conferred certain benefits to certain illegal aliens that Congress had not otherwise acted to provide benefits to, including affording these individuals a...
Read MoreFebruary 18, 2025
Re-Entry Permits
A Re-Entry Permit proves that a green card holder intends to maintain U.S. residency despite prolonged absences from the United States. It allows green card holders to re-enter the United States without jeopardizing their green card status. Without a Re-Entry Permit, prolonged stays outside of the U.S. could trigger questions...
Read MoreFebruary 13, 2025
Replacing a Lost or Expired Green Card
A Lawful Permanent Resident card (often referred to as a “Green Card”) is an important document that proves that an individual is living lawfully in the United States as a permanent resident and that they are legally authorized to work in the United States. When the card is lost, stolen...
Read MoreFebruary 11, 2025
Requesting Further Action on Your Approved USCIS Application
Understanding the purpose and procedure of applying for further action on approved immigration applications or petitions is important for applicants seeking to advance their immigration process or monitor the status of existing applications. The Application for Action on an Approved Application or Petition, serves as a tool for those who...
Read MoreFebruary 10, 2025
INFOPASS
InfoPass is a free service offered by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) that allows you to schedule an appointment with a USCIS field office to discuss your immigration case in person. InfoPass appointments are not for all the immigration questions you may have. For example, if you need to...
Read MoreFebruary 08, 2025
Green Cards
ADIT Stamps Adjustment of Status Under 245i Affidavit of Support Asylum in the United States Cancellation of Removal for Lawful Permanent Residents Common Documents Need For Green Card Application Commuter Green Cards Crimes Involving Moral Turpitude Cuban Adjustment Act Diversity Visas (Visa Lottery) Green Cards for Immediate Relatives of U.S....
Read MoreFebruary 07, 2025
Certificate of Citizenship
While most US citizens will never obtain a Certificate of Citizenship, a Certificate of Citizenship is used to prove US citizenship for individuals who acquired citizenship through their parents (rather than through the naturalization process). A Certificate of Citizenship is typically used by individuals who were born abroad. For example,...
Read MoreFebruary 05, 2025
The Board of Immigration (BIA) Appeals
The Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA) is a part of the Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR). It has nationwide jurisdiction to hear appeals from decisions of immigration judges and Department of Homeland Security (DHS) officers. The BIA’s primary function is to ensure the uniform application of immigration laws across...
Read MoreFebruary 04, 2025
South Sudan Designated for Temporary Protected Status
South Sudanese nationals (or individuals who last resided in South Sudan) who are currently inside the United States may be able to lawfully remain in the country on what is called “Temporary Protected Status” or “TPS.” On March 2, 2022, Secretary of Homeland Security Mayorkas redesignated and extended TPS for...
Read MoreFebruary 01, 2025
B-1 Temporary Business Visitor Visas
Individuals from foreign countries may be eligible to apply for a B-1 visa if they will be coming to the United States for a temporary purpose of participating in a specific, limited business or professional activity. B-1 visas are typically granted for individuals who will be participating in the following...
Read MoreJanuary 27, 2025
L-1A Process
The L-1A visa process assists U.S. employers in transferring employees who hold positions such as managers, executives, and employees with specialized knowledge from a foreign entity to a U.S. entity. The employer must be doing business in the United States and one other country, and must have an employer-employee relationship...
Read MoreJanuary 24, 2025
I Visas For Representatives Of Foreign Media
Individuals may be eligible for the I, Representatives of Foreign Media, nonimmigrant visa if they meet the following criteria: The foreign national represents a foreign media outlet; The foreign national is coming to the U.S. to solely engage in the media profession; and The foreign national has a home office...
Read MoreJanuary 23, 2025
Cameroon Designated for Temporary Protected Status
Nationals of Cameroon (or individuals who last resided in Afghanistan) who are currently inside the United States may be able to lawfully remain in the country on what is called “Temporary Protected Status” or “TPS.” On June 7, 2022, Secretary Mayorkas designated Cameroon for TPS for 18 months (until December...
Read MoreJanuary 22, 2025
The impact of Naturalization on pending immediate relative cases for children
If a green card holder files a family based petition for his/her spouse, their unmarried children under the age of 21 can be included in the spousal petition, meaning that they do not need to file separate petitions for their minor children. However, if the green card holder (Petitioner), becomes...
Read MoreJanuary 18, 2025
Motion to Reopen and Motion to Reconsider in the USCIS proceedings
For individuals who have received unfavorable decisions from the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), the idea of finding legal solutions can be challenging. However, there are two ways for those who believe they have received an unfair or incorrect decision to challenge the erroneous decisions: Motion to Reopen...
Read MoreJanuary 17, 2025
How Does a Criminal Charge Affect My Immigration Status?
Criminal convictions can impact an individual’s immigration status by affecting one’s “admissibility” and “removability” (meaning “deportability”). If a person is inadmissible to the country, it means that they are not allowed to gain admission to the United States, whether it be through admission in the form of receiving a green...
Read MoreJanuary 17, 2025
What Effect Will the New Trump Administration Have on my Immigration Case?
Every four years, we have clients who ask us what effect a new presidential administration might have on their immigration cases. The simple answer is that we can never be certain until the new administration starts to put policies in place and to champion legislation in Congress. However, we can...
Read MoreJanuary 15, 2025
Employment Based Immigration
EB-5 Investor Visa E-1 visa E-2 Visa Decoding the Visa Bulletin H-1B Visas H-2A Visas H2A is a Resource for Temporary Workers H-2B is a Resource for Temporary Non-Agricultural Workers I visas INFOPASS L-1 Visas NAFTA Professionals and TN Visas Notice of Intent to Deny (“NOID”) O Visas P1A visas...
Read MoreJanuary 09, 2025
Immigration Detainers
An immigration detainer is a way for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (“ICE”) to request that an individual who is being detained in a county or state prison or jail on criminal charges, be detained within that same facility for up to an additional 48 hours past the time they otherwise...
Read MoreDecember 31, 2024
Travel Permit: International Travel While Awaiting Immigration Benefits
The United States is a nation of immigrants, and the immigration process can be lengthy and complex. For individuals in the midst of the immigration journey, maintaining the ability to travel internationally can be crucial. This is where the Travel Permit, also plays a vital role. The Travel Permit is...
Read MoreDecember 22, 2024
Student Visas
For individuals who wish to study full time, in the U.S., there are two (2) non-immigrant visas that students may apply for: F-1 or M-1. In order to qualify to study in the United States, the student must be enrolled in an academic educational program, a language-training program or a...
Read MoreDecember 21, 2024
H-1B Visas: A Guide to The Process
When a United States employer seeks to employ a foreign national temporarily in a specialty occupation in the United States, a strict process must be followed. The foreign national must be sponsored by the employer. First, a labor condition application (LCA) must be electronically filed with the United States Department...
Read MoreDecember 20, 2024
Waiver of Grounds of Inadmissibility (I-601)
The path to immigrate to the United States is not always straightforward, and many individuals face the challenge of inadmissibility. This, known as the Waiver of Grounds of Inadmissibility, is crucial in helping individuals overcome these immigration obstacles. In this article, we will explore the Waiver of Grounds of Inadmissibility...
Read MoreDecember 11, 2024
Medical Exams for Green Card Applicants
Getting Your Green Card: Medical Exam (Form I-693) Every client applying for a green card will need a medical examination. Not just any doctor can complete the required form, the I-693 Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record. Only a “civil surgeon,” a doctor approved by USCIS or the Department...
Read MoreDecember 09, 2024
InfoPass Appointments with USCIS
InfoPass is a service provided by USCIS to assist permanent residents, intending immigrants, or non-immigrant visa holders with services that cannot be provided via phone or email. Generally, these in person appointments are reserved for urgent matters, such as emergency travel documents or proof of immigration status for work or...
Read MoreDecember 06, 2024
Replacing a Lost Card or Expired Green Card
A Lawful Permanent Resident card (often referred to as a “Green Card”) is an important document that proves that an individual is living lawfully in the United States as a permanent resident and that they are legally authorized to work in the United States. When the card is lost, stolen...
Read MoreDecember 03, 2024
3 Common Reasons for Deportation From the United States
Deportation or involuntary removal from the United States is an immigrant’s worst fear. Those living in the United States often want to become permanent residents or possibly even citizens. Seemingly minor legal issues can result in immigrants facing removal from the United States and other legal challenges. Deportation can be...
Read MoreNovember 30, 2024
Immigration Court 101: The Notice to Appear
Have you received a document called a “Notice to Appear” or “NTA” but aren’t quite sure what it all means? This is the first step in the removal (deportation) process. A Notice to Appear is a document issued by the Department of Homeland Security. It is a charging document that...
Read MoreNovember 11, 2024
TPS – South Sudan
South Sudan Designated for Temporary Protected Status
Read MoreNovember 10, 2024
Navigating Inadmissibility to the United States
The journey to becoming a lawful resident or citizen of the United States is often met with various legal complexities and requirements. One significant hurdle that individuals may encounter is the concept of inadmissibility, which can pose obstacles to their immigration goals. In this article, we will explore the concept...
Read MoreNovember 04, 2024
Crimes Involving Moral Turpitude (“CIMT”)
Crimes involving moral turpitude (“CIMT”) is a unique legal concept in immigration law. Having a conviction for a CIMT could be a determining factor in assessing an immigrant’s inadmissibility and could lead the immigrant to deportation or denial of entry. It may be unclear which certain criminal convictions can be...
Read MoreOctober 26, 2024
H-1B Visas
When a United States employer seeks to employ a foreign national temporarily in a specialty occupation in the United States, a strict process must be followed. The foreign national must be sponsored by the employer. First, a labor condition application (LCA) must be electronically filed with the United States Department...
Read MoreOctober 20, 2024
Cancellation of Removal for Lawful Permanent Residents
A lawful permanent resident of the United States (i.e. a “green card” holder) is a non-citizen who is authorized to live and work indefinitely in the United States. In some cases, an LPR may face removal proceedings if he or she has been convicted of certain crimes or violations of...
Read MoreOctober 18, 2024
Medical Exams for the Green Card Process
In order to ensure that applicants for lawful permanent residence in the United States (green cards) do not have any communicable diseases that they will bring to the United States, every client applying for a green card is required to undergo a medical examination. This medical examination cannot be completed...
Read MoreOctober 17, 2024
Afghanistan Designated for Temporary Protected Status
Nationals of Afghanistan (or individuals who last resided in Afghanistan) who are currently inside the United States may be able to lawfully remain in the country on what is called “ Temporary Protected Status” or “TPS.” On May 20, 2022, Secretary Mayorkas designated Afghanistan for TPS for 18 months (until...
Read MoreOctober 16, 2024
Special Immigrant Juveniles
Children and young adults under 21 years of age from other countries who are in the United States and need the protection of a juvenile court due to abandonment, neglect, or abuse may be eligible for a Special Immigrant Juvenile (“SIJ”) classification. Children who are SIJs may qualify for a...
Read MoreOctober 13, 2024
Change of Address with USCIS?
If you move while your application is still pending, and before you become a U.S. Citizen, you should report a change of address to United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Reporting your change of address to USCIS will help ensure that you continue to receive important notices and documents...
Read MoreOctober 01, 2024
Cancellation of Removal for Non-Lawful Permanent Residents
Cancellation of Removal for Non-Lawful Permanent Residents For an immigrant who is not a lawful permanent resident and who has been placed in removal proceedings, cancellation of removal may be an option. Cancellation of removal is available only to immigrants in removal proceedings, and if an immigration judge grants cancellation...
Read MoreSeptember 29, 2024
Temporary Protected Status
TPS – Afghanistan TPS – Burma (Myanmar) TPS – Cameroon TPS – Haiti TPS – Somalia TPS – South Sudan TPS – Ukraine TPS – Venezuela TPS – Temporary Protected Status
Read MoreSeptember 25, 2024
Commuter Green Cards
There is an exception to the rule that all green card holders must reside in the United States. That exception is when an applicant is a resident of Canada or Mexico and travels from one of these countries to the United States on a daily or frequent basis for purposes...
Read MoreSeptember 24, 2024
Administrative Closure
Administrative closure is one of the procedural ways in immigration proceedings that immigration judges or the Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA) temporarily remove a case from their active docket. Unlike a final decision, administrative closure leaves the case unresolved but inactive. For example, if a case is terminated or dismissed,...
Read MoreSeptember 04, 2024
ADIT Stamp
The ADIT is an abbreviation for Alien Documentation, Identification, and Telecommunication. The ADIT stamp is issued by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to lawful permanent residents who are in the process of renewing their green cards, or who have had their green cards lost, stolen, or destroyed....
Read MoreAugust 30, 2024
J-1 Visa Waiver: Staying in the United States After Completing Exchange Programs
The J-1 visa program is designed to promote cultural exchange and skill development in the United States, allowing foreign nationals to participate in various exchange programs. However, one of the critical considerations for J-1 visa holders is the “two-year home residency requirement.” Under this rule, certain J-1 visa participants are...
Read MoreAugust 29, 2024
The DACA Program: Past, Present, and Future
DACA stands for the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals. DACA is a special program in the United States. DACA began in 2012 under the Barack Obama administration. It was meant to help young individuals who came to the United States when they were children but did not have legal status...
Read MoreAugust 12, 2024
Asylum EAD Clock
The Employment Authorization Document (EAD) is important for many asylum seekers, allowing them to work legally while their asylum applications are pending. One of the important factors to be considered for a work permit application during the asylum process is the asylum EAD clock. The asylum clock refers to the...
Read MoreAugust 11, 2024
What Happens If You Violate a Protection from Abuse of Order?
A Protection from Abuse Order, or PFA, known more widely as a “restraining order,” is a protective order that is designed to protect individuals from domestic violence, including from physical injury, threats of physical harm, sexual abuse, and stalking. Such actions may be brought against an individual by an intimate...
Read MoreAugust 03, 2024
What Are My Rights at a Protest or Political Demonstration?
During these times of increasing social and political division and unrest, both locally and globally, political demonstrations and civil rights protests are becoming more and more prevalent in our country. Knowledge of one’s civil rights and the boundaries of permissible conduct during a protest, may be extremely useful in avoiding...
Read MoreJuly 30, 2024
Citizenship and Naturalization
Acquisition of U.S. Citizenship at Birth or by Adoption Acquisition of United States Citizenship at Birth Acquisition of US Citizenship through Adoption Appealing a Denial of U.S. Citizenship Citizenship/Naturalization Exemptions to the English and Civic Test for Naturalization How does your criminal history affect the naturalization application Loss of United...
Read MoreJuly 21, 2024
Ukraine Designated for Temporary Protected Status
Ukrainian nationals (or individuals who last resided in Ukraine) who are currently inside the United States may be able to lawfully remain in the country on what is called “Temporary Protected Status” or “TPS.” On March 3, 2022, Secretary Mayorkas designated Ukraine for TPS for 18 months (until October 19,...
Read MoreJuly 09, 2024
H-2A Visas
The H-2A visa program permits U.S. employers to sponsor foreign nationals and bring them to the U.S. to fill temporary agricultural jobs. The U.S. employer must file a Form I-129, Petition for Nonimmigrant Worker, on behalf of the prospective employee. The U.S. employer must meet the following criteria: Offer a...
Read MoreJune 30, 2024
Notices to Appear Without Hearing Dates and Times
Are you currently in removal proceedings before an immigration court? If so, you should have received a document initiating the removal proceedings called a Notice to Appear from the Department of Homeland Security. Section 239(a)(1) of the Immigration and Nationality Act requires that every notice to appear list the date...
Read MoreJune 20, 2024
245(i) Adjustment of Status
Section 245(i) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) allows some individuals who would otherwise be ineligible to adjust their status (receive their green card) if they meet certain criteria. Such individuals may ordinarily be ineligible to obtain their green card from inside the United States because they entered the...
Read MoreJune 13, 2024
Venezuela Designated for Temporary Protected Status
Venezuelan nationals (or individuals who last resided in Venezuela) who are currently inside the United States may be able to lawfully remain in the country on what is called “Temporary Protected Status” or “TPS.” On March 8, 2021, Secretary Mayorkas designated Venezuela for TPS for 18 months (until September 9,...
Read MoreJune 13, 2024
Humanitarian Parole Process
Parole enables the temporary entry of an individual into the United States, even if they are considered inadmissible or otherwise ineligible for admission. The Secretary of Homeland Security has the authority to exercise their discretion and grant parole to individuals seeking temporary admission to the United States for compelling humanitarian...
Read MoreJune 12, 2024
T Visas for Victims of Human Trafficking
What is a T visa? A T visa is a non-immigrant visa available to victims of human trafficking. What is human trafficking? Human trafficking is “a form of modern-day slavery in which traffickers use force, fraud, or coercion to compel individuals to provide labor or services, including commercial sex. Traffickers...
Read MoreMay 30, 2024
Visas
B-1 Visas C-1/D Visas TN NAFTA Professionals I Visas for Representatives of Foreign Media J-1 Visas O Visas P1A Visas for Athletes P1A Visas for Entertainment Groups R-1 Visas Deferred Action For Childhood Arrivals (DACA) Special Immigrant Juveniles T Visas of Human Trafficking
Read MoreMay 21, 2024
Asylum in the United States
What is Asylum? Asylum is legal protection granted to foreign nationals who fled their home country to avoid persecution they suffered, or that they would suffer if they were forced to return to their home country. In order to be eligible for asylum, an applicant must meet the definition of...
Read MoreMay 09, 2024
Exemptions to the English and Civics Test for Naturalization
To become a naturalized U.S. citizen, you must be able to read, write, speak, and understand basic English, unless you qualify for an exemption due to a physical or mental disability or due to age. To demonstrate your English proficiency, you must take and pass the English portion of the...
Read MoreMay 07, 2024
Immigration Court 101: Appealing a Denial
Immigration Judges have the authority to deny relief from deportation and order that individuals be deported from the U.S. Their decisions are considered final, however, in most scenarios, denials can be appealed. An appeal is an application to a higher court or administrative tribunal that states that an error or...
Read MoreApril 29, 2024
Uniting for Ukraine
Uniting for Ukraine: Parole for Ukrainians
Read MoreApril 27, 2024
Common Documents Need For Green Card Application
Depending on an immigrant’s individual circumstances and how he is getting his green card (for example, through marriage to a U.S. citizen or by being sponsored by an employer), he will need to provide different types of documents to USCIS and/or the U.S. embassy or consulate. Below are some common...
Read MoreApril 23, 2024
Defective Notices to Appear (NTAs)
A Notice to Appear (NTA) is an important document that places an individual in removal proceedings before an immigration judge. The NTA includes specific details about an immigration hearing, such as name, date of birth, nationality, the time and date of hearing, the legal grounds for removal, etc. The Department...
Read MoreApril 21, 2024
L1 Visas
The L1 is a non-immigration visa. It helps employees (visa applicant) move between different countries for their jobs. It is like a bridge connecting employees (visa applicant) and companies (sponsor) across borders. L1 visas offer many benefits for both companies and employees. Companies can quickly send their skilled employees to...
Read MoreApril 19, 2024
TPS – Cameroon
Cameroon Designated for Temporary Protected Status
Read MoreApril 12, 2024
J-1 Visas
The J-1 Visa is available to individuals who wish to participate in a cultural or educational exchange program in the United States. The J-1 is a non-immigrant visa and may include a requirement to take the skills or experiences gained during this program back to his or her home country...
Read MoreApril 09, 2024
TPS – Temporary Protected Status
Temporary Protective Status (TPS) is granted by the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security. TPS is a form of humanitarian immigration relief that allows foreign nationals from certain countries to remain in the United States for a limited period of time. TPS provides temporary protection from deportation and permission...
Read MoreApril 06, 2024
H1B Visas
With the right qualifications and experience, talented individuals from all over the world can find success in the United States. Despite the current challenges of obtaining an H1B visa, many international students and professionals still consider it worthwhile to pursue their professional dreams in the United States. The H-1B visa...
Read MoreMarch 24, 2024
I Visas For Representatives Of Foreign Media
In a Pennsylvania divorce, child support is based off of both parents’ income, as well as a host of other considerations made with the child’s best interest in mind. When a married couple chooses to terminate their marriage, everyone in the family experiences a change in the lifestyle that they...
Read MoreMarch 23, 2024
Replacing a Green Card after Turning 14
For lawful permanent residents of the United States, a green card provides proof of legal status in the United States. It can be used for various purposes, such as employment, travel, and access to government services. If you received your green card before turning 14 years old, you are required...
Read MoreMarch 16, 2024
Burma (Myanmar) Designated for Temporary Protected Status
Nationals of Burma (Myanmar) (or individuals who last resided therein) who are currently inside the United States may be able to lawfully remain in the country on what is called “Temporary Protected Status” or “TPS.” On May 25, 2021, Secretary Mayorkas designated Burma for TPS for 18 months. The initial...
Read MoreMarch 12, 2024
Crimes Involving Moral Turpitude (“CIMT”)
Crimes involving moral turpitude (“CIMT”) is a unique legal concept in immigration law. Having a conviction for a CIMT could be a determining factor in assessing an immigrant’s inadmissibility and could lead the immigrant to deportation or denial of entry. It may be unclear which certain criminal convictions can be...
Read MoreFebruary 10, 2024
When Can a Business Obtain Visas for Foreign Professionals?
Businesses sometimes have no choice but to expand a talent search to international markets. The hiring or human resources team at the organization may have a hard time locating domestic workers with the skills to perform certain jobs. The company might tap into a massive international market by looking for...
Read MoreFebruary 09, 2024
Expedited Removal
Expedited removal is a process used by immigration authorities to promptly deport individuals deemed inadmissible to the United States without further hearing or review. This process allows the rapid removal of individuals who entered the U.S. border without proper authorization or documentation. Expedited removal can be applied to individuals who...
Read MoreFebruary 07, 2024
Visitor (B1/B2) Visas
The B1/B2 visa is a non-immigrant visa designed for individuals intending to visit the United States temporarily for business (B1) or pleasure/tourism (B2) purposes. It permits entry for a specified duration, allowing visa holders to engage in only authorized activities such as business meetings, conferences, tourism, or visiting relatives and...
Read MoreJanuary 27, 2024
“Aggravated Felony” in Immigration Proceedings
An alien convicted of an “aggravated felony” may face serious immigration consequences as a result of that conviction. An “aggravated felony,” as used in immigration law, is not necessarily a felony, but can also include many misdemeanor crimes as well. It does not have to be a violent crime, although...
Read MoreJanuary 11, 2024
Family Based Immigration
ADIT Stamp Affidavit of Support Appealing a Denial Changing Address with Immigration Decoding the Visa Bulletin Denial of Immigration Petition Fiancé Visas Green Cards for Immediate Relatives of U.S. Citizens Green Cards for Other Relatives of U.S. Citizens of Lawful Permanent Residents How to Obtain an ITIN for Tax Filing...
Read MoreJanuary 02, 2024
Somalia Designated for Temporary Protected Status
Nationals of Somalia (or individuals who last resided in Somalia) who are currently inside the United States may be able to lawfully remain in the country on what is called “Temporary Protected Status” or “TPS.” On September 18, 2021, Secretary Mayorkas redesignated Somalia for TPS for 18 months (until March...
Read MoreDecember 08, 2023
What Sort of Deportation Defenses Are Available?
It’s a difficult time to be an immigrant in the United States. Political and public attitudes keep shifting, and many immigrants, both documented and undocumented, now fear for their futures and their families much more than ever. It may seem like the specter of deportation is always hanging over your...
Read MoreFebruary 21, 2023
Securing an L Visa for an International Manager or Executive
Some organizations need to bring in skilled workers from abroad because there simply are not enough specialized professionals in their industry to hire all-domestic talent. Highly-educated professions, like engineering and medicine, are so competitive that the best domestic talent may be hard to hire. Recruiting the brightest and best professionals...
Read MoreDecember 13, 2022
How Do You Handle a Notice to Appear in Immigration Court?
You’ve received a Notice to Appear (NTA) in immigration court. Does this mean that you need to start packing your bags and ready yourself for deportation? A NTA is an official order that requires you to appear in court, and it is the start of the removal proceedings. However, it...
Read MoreSeptember 14, 2022
3 Reasons Criminal Charges Will Lead To Someone’s Deportation
Some people have to leave the United States because their visas expire. Students and employment visas only last for a certain amount of time. Although applicants can renew their visas, eventually they will need to return to their country of origin. Some people with visas will face removal from the...
Read MoreMarch 23, 2022
Your Green Card Can Help Your Loved Ones Enter the United States
Adjusting your status to become a permanent resident is an exciting process. While you are legally in the country, your visa will eventually expire. There is a limit to how many times you can renew your visa, even if you comply with all domestic laws and immigration rules. Adjusting your...
Read MoreFebruary 16, 2022
When Can You Sponsor a Foreign Employee for a Work Visa?
The United States has a shortage of some kinds of skilled workers. Businesses in need of engineers, medical researchers and other highly-educated and skilled professionals may struggle to find the right candidates domestically. Sometimes, companies need to look abroad to find the right talent. Other times, a company will recognize...
Read MoreDecember 10, 2021
What Charges Can Lead to Deportation From the United States?
Staying in the United States as an immigrant can be difficult. You must comply with the rules set by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). You also need to avoid employment issues or criminal charges that would affect your eligibility to stay in the country. While employment issues...
Read MoreJanuary 07, 2021
Federal Judge Strikes Down Trump’s Attempt to Limit H-1B Visas
The Trump Administration said its move last month to limit the number of foreign workers from entering the country was to protect U.S. workers facing COVID-19-related job losses. A federal judge on Dec. 1 in Oakland did not agree. U.S. District Judge Jeffrey White overturned the U.S. Department of Homeland...
Read MoreJune 23, 2020
DACA Holds up in Supreme Court, but Still Raises Questions
After three years of ongoing efforts by President Trump and his administration to eliminate the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program, the Supreme Court ruled on June 18 against such a move, upholding the protections the program gives to immigrants who arrived in the US during childhood. In making...
Read MoreJune 22, 2019
6 Things That May Happen During an Ice Workplace Raid
Recently, President Trump announced that the federal government intends to resume immigration sweeps. These raids may occur in immigrant communities, public places or job sites. While the thought of an immigration raid at your place of employment may be frightening, you should prepare yourself for a change in enforcement. ...
Read MoreNovember 09, 2018
Entrepreneurship Can Create a Path to a Green Card
The midterms have just passed, but it won’t be long before campaigning for 2020 elections kicks in. No doubt, many candidates will talk about how small businesses drive the U.S. economy. Turns out immigrants play a significant role in the creation of small businesses in the U.S. About one-quarter of...
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