Immigration Attorney Richardson
Immigration law is extremely complex. There are different ways for immigrants to obtain visas, certain quotas for the U.S. to uphold in allowing immigrants into the country, and other restrictions on applicants seeking U.S. citizenship. The best way for an immigrant to cover all his/her bases for entering the U.S. is to hire an immigration attorney in Richardson.
We’ll provide you with a general overview of immigration law. The following information will help prepare you for your initial consultation with an immigration attorney.
The Involvement of the Federal Government
All United States government leaders have the same objectives: to keep America safe, and to maintain its standing as “the land of opportunity”. Welcoming immigrants is good for the economy. It’s also good for immigrants, as it gives them the chance to achieve their dreams.
There are many reasons for immigrants to want to come to the United States. For example, an immigrant may want to reunite with family that live here, seek employment, or leave a troubled country. The Federal Government understands these reasons, and that’s why they make citizenship attainable.
In a year, the government grants over 500,000 visas. Visas can fall under many categories, but the main two are Immigrant and Non-Immigrant.
Immigrant visas grant full-time U.S. status. That does not yet mean an immigrant is a permanent U.S. citizen, but that he/she is legal in the country for the duration of the visa. The visa type is limited by a yearly quota. It is also important to realize that the visa waiting list is very long; it can take years for one to get approved.
Non-Immigrant visas grant temporary U.S. status. They are usually for people visiting as tourists or exchange students. Non-Immigrant visas are not subject to quotas.
How does one apply for a Visa?
Family Member
The common way is for a family member to petition for a visa. The family member does so on behalf of the family member currently in another country. If the petitioning member meets age requirements and is financially stable enough, the visa is more likely to be granted.
Family unification is looked at favorably by the United States government. In fact, it is often considered a priority in the immigration system.
Immediate family members come first. This includes spouses, parents, unmarried children under the age of 21, and children who were adopted before their 16th birthday. The U.S. has a quota for the number of visas granted to immigrant family members within a year. The quota typically ranges between 200,000 and 500,000. An immigration attorney will help you apply for one.
Visa for Business Investors
People looking to make a business investments in the U.S. can apply for what is known as an E5 Visa.
E5 Visas are not subject to quotas and are typically awarded in periods ranging from 2-5 years. It can be renewed in perpetuity, but only if the business is turning a profit. The U.S. wants to see that a business is helping the economy, not huring it. They also allow a spouse and children to enter the U.S. legally.
-No quota and one of the more easily accessible visa types.
Visa for Entrepreneurs
Immigrants seeking to enter the United States with a business idea can try to do so by applying for an E2 Visa. E2 Visas are granted to immigrants who plan to invest in the economy through labor, finances and assets.
But there are a few hoops to jump through. E2 Visas can only be awarded to citizens of a country that is part of the Treaty of Trade and Commerce with the United States. You can see which countries qualify.
You must also have proof of your investment – the proper business qualifications and capital. Same as E5 Visas, an E2 Visa is more likely to be approved if the Federal Government is confident that the business will contribute positively to the economy through service and employment.
-No quota; visa will be eligible for renewal every two years.
Refugee Status
While U.S. Immigration Law focuses on keeping Americans safe, it also extends an outlet for immigrants to find safety. Individuals who are persecuted in their country for religious, political, social or identification issues can apply for refugee status.
As always, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services will need to confirm the persecution. They will speak directly with the immigrant and investigate the situation as needed.
Any immigrant who fears returning to their home country can apply for asylum in the U.S.
Employment Status
You can gain U.S. citizenship via a work visa, too. If you’ve ever applied for a job in the U.S., you’ve probably had to answer whether your employment would require a visa. It’s not because you won’t get the job because you need a visa, but it’s important that the company knows your status for documentation and on-boarding purposes.
The company intending to hire you must petition for a work visa from the government for you. If granted, you will have U.S. status for as long as you are employed with that company. Additionally, once five years have passed, you can apply for full U.S. citizenship.
What’s the difference between a visa and a green card?
Visas only grant temporary status. There are roundabout methods to turn a non-immigrant visa into a full-time U.S citizenship, and it’s very possible to turn an immigrant visa into full-time status. Nonetheless, a green card grants complete citizenship right after it’s approved.
Visas have restrictions, whereas green cards don’t. For instance, the only method for an immigrant to work in the U.S. is with a work visa. Although, with a green card, an immigrant has the freedom of employment in the U.S. The only way a green card might be taken away from an immigrant – the only way full citizenship will be taken away – is if the cardholder commits a criminal offense or felony on U.S. soil. It’s a must to have a visa before you can be granted a green card.
How can an immigration attorney from Richardson help?
Sure, there are many ways to enter the U.S. on a part-time, or restricted, status. And there are methods for immigrants to inch their way to full United States citizenship. Although, gaining temporary status or full-time status are prolonged and complicated processes.
To offer yourself the best chance, you will have to hire an immigration attorney Dallas – a professional immigration attorney in Richardson.
Qualified attorneys will have an advanced understanding of immigration law because it pertains to the U.S. and foreign nations. They’ll keep up-to-date with modifications in policy. They’ll also play a significant role in getting the proper documentation through to U.S. immigration officers to make sure your application is completed and your acceptance is pending.
Attorneys can take part in any meetings that an immigrant partakes in with immigration officers. Your chosen attorney will be with you all through, lending you a helpful hand and speaking on your behalf. Your chances of someday becoming a U.S. citizen will gorw exponentially with expert guidance.
The Kafor Law Firm Richardson
The Kafor Law Firm has the best immigration attorneys in Richardson. Led by lead attorney Yvonne Kafor, we’ll pave the way for your eventual acceptance into the U.S. We’ll even represent you if you’re an immigrant who’s trying to stay in the US.
Trust in Kafor Legislation Agency’s representation. Call in for a free initial consultation and we’ll discuss and start the process. For more info, go to https://thekaforlawfirm.com.
Don’t stall an important life opportunity, call (214) 238-5439!
Kafor Legislation Agency, PLLC
Search Skilled Illustration
We Give Your Personal Injury Case Personal Attention
Fighting to Protect Your Legal RightsContact us today for a free consultation with skilled, proven trial attorneys.
