Are you a foreign national or a company eager to get a work visa in the U.S. or an employment-based green card for yourself or your employee? If yes, note that you’re at the right place. In this article, you’ll be briefed about the types of employment-based green cards and work visas in the United States. Find the best-suited option for yourself or else contact us to get professional assistance from our experienced immigration lawyers. We’re one of the top-notched and highly sought-after firms who devise effective solutions for aspiring immigrants and organizations to get desired work visas and employment-based green cards in the U.S. Our professional immigration lawyers cater to the demands of every case and employ their experience to efficiently represent employers or employees. With us, you can rest assured that your journey to getting a work visa or employment-based green card in the U.S. will be smooth, timely, and barrier-less. Call us now to know more! Work visa services Companies or employers who’re willing to employ foreign nationals in specialty occupations can opt for work visa options authorized by the government officials of the U.S. We strategize and develop plan that caters to your goals and needs for conveniently navigating through the entire process of work visa in the U.S. Our team of experienced immigration lawyers can guide you through the work visa sponsorship process. Let’s dive deeper into some of our expertise in work visa options in the U.S.: Professional Work Visa H-1B specialty occupation work visa An H-1B specialty occupation work visa refers to a type of visa that allows foreign nationals to enter the U.S.A. for work purposes. It permits U.S. employers to employ foreign nationals in specialty occupations temporarily, however, the dual-intent nature of this visa allows the foreign national to opt for a green card. The aspiring applicant's immediate family members including spouse, and unmarried children (under 21 years of age) can apply for an H-4 dependent visa to accompany him/her to the U.S. Our employment-based immigration lawyers have assisted several organizations in the process of H-1B petition and H-1B lottery. H-1B1 Chilean and Singaporean specialty occupation work visa As per the Free Trade Agreements between the U.S., Chile, and Singapore, the H-1B1 work visa permits around 1,400 Chilean and 5,400 Singaporean applicants to enter the U.S. on specialty occupation every year. It allows professionals of these countries with specialized skills to work in the U.S. easily as the annual limit on its issuance isn’t generally reached, hence, it’s one of the most preferred visa options for the applicants belonging to these countries. The process of application is quite similar to the H-1B visa, though with a slight difference i.e. the visa can be directly applied with a U.S. consulate with no preliminary approval from USCIS. The employer must acquire the certified LCA (Labor Condition Application) from the US Department of Labor. The aspiring applicant's immediate family members including spouse, and unmarried children (under 21 years of age) can apply for an H-4 dependent visa to accompany him/her to the U.S. Our lawyers have full expertise in this visa process and can effectively assist you. E-3 Australian specialty occupation work visa The E-3 visa is a specialty occupation work visa that is available exclusively to Australian nationals. Around 10,500 Australian applicants gain this work visa every year, thus becoming one of the most opted visa options for Australian nationals due to the lower cap. The process of application is quite similar to the H-1B visa, though with a slight difference i.e. the visa can be directly applied with a U.S. consulate with no preliminary approval from USCIS. The employer must acquire the certified LCA (Labor Condition Application) from the US Department of Labor. The Australian specialty worker’s immediate family members including spouse, and unmarried children (under 21 years of age) can apply for an E-3 dependent visa to accompany him/her to the U.S. We’ve extensive experience assisting Australian E-3 applicants and provided satisfactory services. TN Canadian and Mexican professional work visa Substituting the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) was made which led to the creation of the TN visa which is a professional work visa that is available exclusively to Canadian and Mexican nationals who’re in quest of temporary employment in the U.S. Apart from being the citizens of these countries and bearing a legal job offer from a U.S. employer, the TN beneficiary must be a professional worker in one of the professions listed in the USMCA/NAFTA. It’s to be noted that Canadian TN applicants are visa exempt and they must apply for admission in TN status with US Customs and Border Protection at an airport or land border port of entry, while Mexican TN applicants must apply for this visa with US consulate or embassy. We've extensive experience in assisting Canadian and Mexican TN applicants and provided extraordinary services. R-1 Religious occupation work visa The R-1 visa is an occupational work visa that is available exclusively to religious workers such as clergy, missionaries, cantors, and religious healthcare service providers seeking temporary employment in the U.S., for up to 30 months (however, the stay can be extended to five years). The R-1 specialty worker's immediate family members including spouses, and unmarried children (under 21 years of age) can apply for an R-2 dependent visa. The applicant can apply for an EB-4 green card to obtain permanent status. Our expertise includes guiding aspiring applicants to attain this type of work visa sponsorship process. Intracompany Transfer Work Visa L-1A work visa for managers or executives To qualify for this type of work visa, one must show shared ownership between the foreign and U.S. companies and it’s issued generally for three years but can be extended to seven years. Before transfer to the U.S., the employee must serve as an executive or manager in a foreign company for at least one year. The employee's immediate family members can apply for an L-2 dependent visa. L-1B work visa for specialized knowledge workers To qualify for this type of work visa, the employee must possess specialized knowledge about the sponsoring company’s products, services, equipment, or other processes and it’s issued generally for three years but can be extended to five years. Before transfer to the U.S., similar to an L-1A work visa, the employee must serve as a specialized worker in a foreign company for at least one year. The employee's immediate family members can apply for an L-2 dependent visa. L-1 visa blanket work visa To qualify for this type of work visa, the foreign company must have an office and must do business in the U.S. along with having three or more foreign or domestic branches aligned with commercial trade. Besides, the foreign company will be eligible if it has either $25 million in U.S. annual sales or a minimum of 1000 U.S. staff, or must have been approved a minimum of ten L-1 petitions in the past 12 months. E-2 treaty investor work visa To qualify for this type of work visa, the treaty investor must be a national of a country with which the U.S. enterprise maintains a treaty of commerce and navigation. The U.S. enterprise may sponsor a temporary E-2 work visa to the employee belonging to the treaty country and s/he must possess specialized skills or work as an executive or supervisor. This visa is valid for five years based on the employee’s nationality. The employee's immediate family members can apply for an E-2 dependent visa. E-1 treaty trader work visa To qualify for this type of work visa, the treaty trader must be a national of a country with which the U.S. enterprise maintains a treaty of commerce and navigation. The U.S. enterprise may sponsor a temporary E-1 work visa to the employee belonging to the treaty country and s/he must possess specialized skills or work as an executive or supervisor. It’s valid for up to five years based on the employee's nationality. The employee's immediate family members can apply for an E-1 dependent visa. B-1 business visitor work visa Also called a temporary business visitor visa, this work visa type is fit for foreign nationals engaged in temporary business activities including attending conferences, negotiating contracts, or consulting with business associates in the U.S. To qualify for it, the foreign national must have permitted/approved business activity in the U.S. on a short-term basis. Athlete and Entertainer Work Visa P-1A athlete work visa It’s available to only internationally acclaimed athletes competing in any particular athletic event in the U.S., individually or as a group. It’s valid for up to five years, however, an extension of a maximum of ten years is allowed, in the case of individual athletes. In the case of athletic teams, the initial stay duration is one year with an extension of an extra one year. Coaches, scouts, or trainers can apply for a P-1S visa to accompany the athlete or group to the U.S. The P-1A visa holder’s immediate family members can apply for a P-4 dependent visa. P-1B entertainment group work visa It’s available to only internationally acclaimed entertainment groups performing in any pre-approved tour, engagement, or event in the U.S., for a minimum of one year. It’s valid for up to one year, however, an extension is allowed based on the itinerary. If the group wishes to stay for a longer duration in the U.S., they may consider consultation with an experienced immigration lawyer like ours who’d review the case and expose them to visa options for further consideration. The other personnel of the entertainment group can apply for a P-1S visa to accompany the athlete or group to the U.S. The P-1B visa holder's immediate family members can apply for a P-4 dependent visa. Extraordinary Ability Work Visa O-1A work visa for individuals in business, education, science, or athletics People having specialized skills in fields like business, education, science, or athletics can apply for an O-1A work visa in the U.S. To qualify for this type of visa, the applicant must show that s/he has either received highly auspicious awards (like the Noble Prize or others) in the specific field, been a member of prestigious associations, been featured in media publications, or received a handsome salary as compared to his/her colleagues. The O-1A visa holder's immediate family members can apply for an O-3 dependent visa. O-1B work visa for individuals in the arts, motion pictures, or television People having specialized skills in fields like arts, motion pictures or television can apply for an O-1B work visa in the U.S. To qualify for this type of visa, the applicant must show that s/he has either received highly auspicious awards (Academy Award or Emmy Award, etc.) in the specific field, been successful commercially or critically, been critically reviewed in media publications, or received a handsome salary. The O-1B visa holder's immediate family members can apply for an O-3 dependent visa. O-2 work visa for support personnel of O-1 To qualify for this type of visa, the applicant must be a support personnel accompanying O-1 prime beneficiary to the U.S. The applicant must add an inevitable element to the O-1 visa holder’s performance, something that cannot be added by any U.S. workforce. The O-2 visa holder's immediate family members can apply for an O-3 dependent visa. Temporary and Seasonal Work Visa H-2A work visa USA for temporary and seasonal agricultural workers Employers sponsor foreign workers for temporary and seasonal agricultural workers through H-2A work visas. It fulfills the gap of labor that is unavailable in the U.S., though the employer must show proof of unavailability along with demonstrating the temporary nature of the position. The immediate family members like spouses and unmarried children who’re less than 21 years old may apply for an H-4 dependent visa. H-2B work visa USA for temporary and seasonal non-agricultural workers Employers sponsor foreign workers for temporary and seasonal non-agricultural workers through H-2B work visas. It fulfills the gap of labor that is unavailable in the U.S., though the employer must show proof of unavailability along with demonstrating the temporary nature of the position. The immediate family members like spouses and unmarried children who’re less than 21 years old may apply for an H-4 dependent visa. Dependents or Work Visa Holders H-4 dependent visa The immediate family members like spouses and unmarried children who’re less than 21 years old, of H-1, H-2, and H-3 visa holders apply for H-4 dependent visas. The stay duration is similar to the principal beneficiary, however, the spouse will be authorized to work in the U.S. only after the approval of the I-140 immigrant petition or post-reception of extension of H-1B status one -year beyond the overall six years depending on a filed PERM labor certification. The unmarried children bearing H-4 status aren’t eligible for work authorization. E dependent visa The immediate family members like spouses and unmarried children who’re less than 21 years old, of E-1, E-2, and E-3 visa holders apply for E-dependent visas. The stay duration is similar to the principal beneficiary. The spouse of the principal beneficiary is authorized to work in the U.S. L-2 dependent visa The immediate family members like spouses and unmarried children who’re less than 21 years old, of L-1 visa holders apply for L-2 dependent visas. The stay duration is similar to the principal beneficiary. The spouse of the principal beneficiary is authorized to work in the U.S. O-3 dependent visa The immediate family members like spouses and unmarried children who’re less than 21 years old, of O-1 and O-2 visa holders apply for O-3 dependent visas. The dependent visa holders can stay in the U.S. as long as the principal beneficiary is staying and they’re permitted to indulge in full-time or part-time study but not for employment. P-4 dependent visa The immediate family members like spouses and unmarried children who’re below 21, of P-1, P-2, and P-3 visa holders apply for a P-4 dependent visa. The dependent visa holders can stay in the U.S. as long as the principal beneficiary is staying and they’re permitted to indulge in full-time or part-time study but not for employment. R-2 dependent visa The immediate family members like spouses and unmarried children who’re less than 21 years old, of P-1, P-2, and P-3 visa holders apply for P-4 dependent visas. The dependent visa holders can stay in the U.S. as long as the principal beneficiary is staying and they’re permitted to indulge in full-time or part-time study but not for employment. Consular Processing and Change or Adjustment of Status The work visa can be obtained possibly in two ways depending on your current location. One is through consular processing which is for applicants living outside the U.S. and the other one is adjustment of status that applies potentially to individuals already residing in the U.S. Both ways carry their own advantages. People go for any one of the options based on individual circumstances. Conclusion At h1bvisajobs.com, you’ll be acquainted with multiple work visa options with their peculiar pros and cons. Our employment-based immigration lawyers are professionally trained and have a good record of attending clients and representing their cases in the courts. We plan and strategize the entire process of application and ensure a good outcome. References https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/immigrate/employment-based-immigrant-visas.html
At times, affording a lawyer can be implausible or a farfetched dream. If your case demands a private lawyer then you may consider hiring one for yourself or your company. But if you seek legal assistance for your relatively manageable case, then you may not be required to spare money on hiring a lawyer. However, there are conditions applied. So, do you need a lawyer for free? If yes, you must be eligible to avail such an opportunity of getting free legal help. Therefore, the central focus on having the eligibility should be your major concern. In this article, your basic queries related to getting a lawyer for free will be dealt with critical attention. Who is entitled to a free lawyer? People who are accused of a crime that results in imprisonment and are financially disabled to afford a lawyer can avail of free legal help as approved by the Constitution. If you fall into this category, you must appear in court to request the appointment of a public defender. The court is entrusted with the authority to consider someone "indigent" with minimal assets and funds to afford a lawyer. Once it’s done, the court appoints a private lawyer who’ll be paid with country funds or a public defender program will be appointed to represent your case. The public defender programs may charge an application fee from you, though the amount will be minimal. However, people with non-criminal or civil cases are not entitled to get free legal help. But notably, there are several legal aid or pro bono programs that offer free legal assistance, especially for the poor or marginalized section. In this case, the income of the person will be taken into account. People with less than 125% income of the federal poverty level will be considered a priority, though people with a slightly higher income may be considered in certain special cases. The second category may include seniors or disabled ones, domestic violence victims, the ones enlisted in the military, or someone having a special case. Their income can be relatively bit higher. While these community-based programs operate on a tight budget and lack sufficient resources, they critically scrutinize one’s case for further consideration and dismiss others who seek help. Types of low-cost legal assistance There are several types of low-cost legal assistance available to individuals who demand legal help but can’t afford the services of a private lawyer. Following are some common types of low-cost legal assistance: Legal aid organizations: There are many states and localities that have legal aid organizations offering free or low-cost legal services to people who meet stipulated income requirements. These organizations potentially help clients with a variety of legal issues, such as family law matters, housing disputes, and public benefits. Pro bono services: A few private lawyers and law firms offer free legal services to individuals who can’t afford to pay for a lawyer. These services are called pro bono services which may be available for a variety of legal issues, but availability may be limited. Legal clinics: There are several law schools and bar associations that offer legal clinics that provide free or low-cost legal services to financially unstable people in the community. These clinics may be staffed by law students, supervised by licensed attorneys, and can help with a variety of legal issues. Online legal services: There are many online legal services that provide low-cost legal assistance, such as legal document preparation and legal advice. These services can be a cost-effective way to obtain legal help, but it's important to research their reputation and ensure that they are legitimate. Self-help resources: Several courts and legal organizations provide self-help resources, such as legal forms and instructions, that can help people with legal issues without the requirement for a lawyer. What is a legal service/aid office? Legal service/aid offices refer to those legal offices that accommodate efficient lawyers (including pro bono lawyers or even law student interns) who provide legal services to poor and marginalized people who’re otherwise unable to afford private lawyers for the conduct of their civil or criminal cases in the court. These lawyers are mostly experienced and self-willing in handling the legal issues that the poor section of society mostly encounters such as eviction, immigration, and employment among others. What is a pro bono program? Pro bono is a Latin term that implies ‘for the public good’ and is associated with the lawyer’s free legal services. There is no compulsion on lawyers to indulge in pro bono programs for the maintenance of their law license, though, the American Bar Association urges their lawyers to dedicate 50 hours each year to volunteer representation of the poor and marginalized section who can’t afford such services. The civil law firm that undertakes a pro bono case may likely be partially inclined towards marketing purposes, furbishing one’s market value in the legal world. As compared to legal service/aid lawyers, pro bono lawyers are less efficient and competent to handle cutting-edge cases. How to find a legal aid office or pro bono lawyer? Finding a legal service/aid office or pro bono lawyer is quite simple in this digital age. To navigate the fastest way to reach out to a legal aid or pro bono lawyer, you must go online. To begin with, you can try out these search queries and see if you find some matches: (Your state, county, or city) Legal Services (Your state, county, or city) Legal Aid Free legal services in (your state, county, or city) (Your state, county, or city) pro bono legal aid Afterward, go to the websites one at a time and check the types of cases that the selected organization mostly undertakes. Contact them all once you find a pre-screening application or an invitation to call the office. Besides, you can click on the following links to find legal help in your area: I Need Legal Help, a page managed by the Legal Services Corporation where you need to enter your address to get the nearest legal aid organization. org enlists information by state encompassing many civil issues and immigration. The free Legal Help page of the American Bar Association includes several information and resources. The Military Pro Bono Project provides veterans, service members, or military family members with a list of useful resources and links to local legal assistance. The list of Pro Bono Legal Service Providers of the U.S. Department of Justice enlists a state’s participating law firms and legal aid offices. Note: Accumulate in one place every essential document such as tax returns, bank statements, pay stubs, and others that show your accurate financial status. What is a lawyer referral service? A lawyer referral service is a program that helps individuals find an attorney who can provide legal assistance for their specific legal issue. These services are typically offered by state and local bar associations, as well as other legal organizations, and they work by connecting individuals with qualified attorneys who practice in the relevant area of law. In general, a lawyer referral service will ask the individual seeking legal assistance a few questions about their legal issue, such as the type of legal problem they are facing and their location. Based on this information, the service will provide a referral to an attorney who has experience handling cases that are similar to the individual's legal issue. It's important to note that lawyer referral services do not provide legal advice themselves, nor do they offer any guarantees about the quality of the attorneys they refer individuals to. However, they can be a helpful resource for individuals who are seeking legal assistance but are uncertain where to start. Types of legal issues you can get help with You can avail free legal aid for several legal issues. Here’s a list of the most common types of legal issues: Family law matters such as divorce, child support and custody, and adoption etc. Housing law matters include landlord-tenant disputes eviction or foreclosure etc. Immigration issues. Employment law matters include termination from a job, discrimination, and harassment, and wage and hour disputes Consumer law issues include bankruptcy, debt collection unfair business practices, etc. Criminal law matters include expungement or representation in misdemeanor cases etc. Notably, the availability of free legal help may vary depending on your location and the specific circumstances of your case, so it's always a good idea to do some research to find out what resources are available to you. Conclusion To sum up, there are several resources available that can offer free legal assistance in case you need legal help but can't afford an attorney. You can contact legal aid organizations that provide free or low-cost legal services to individuals who meet certain income requirements. You can use lawyer referral services that can align you with a lawyer who can provide free or low-cost legal assistance for your specific legal issue. Besides many law schools have clinics that offer free legal assistance to the community. These clinics are staffed by law students, under the supervision of licensed attorneys, and can aid with a variety of legal issues. You can also look for pro bono services or use self-help resources, such as legal forms and instructions, that can assist individuals with legal issues without the need for a lawyer. References https://www.americanbar.org/groups/legal_services/flh-home/flh-faq/ https://www.usa.gov/legal-aid
In the post-modern age when information and resources are handy and humans gear up for better prospects, how far a third party is of any use? Speaking of obtaining U.S. citizenship, while one gets by independently, there are moments when an immigration lawyer can be a stark difference through his/her mere presence. Learn with us when an immigration lawyer is mostly required and when to manage on your own. The naturalization process can be initiated by submitting Form N-400, Application for Naturalization to USCIS. In addition to the form, you must submit evidence that validates your eligibility and the filing fees. These can be submitted online. For those managing the naturalization process with no legal assistance, USCIS provides N-400 instructions. One can visit the page, follow the instructions, and accomplish the task of preparing for the naturalization test and process. However, the naturalization process can be overwhelming and you might get stuck in between the process. Seeking legal assistance from a lawyer or Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR)-accredited representative could be your last resort. While several people offer to help with the immigration process, you must choose only the authorized and qualified lawyer to: Complete your Application for Naturalization Know the suitable immigration options Get your case represented before the USCIS When is an Immigration Lawyer Needed? While applying for U.S. citizenship, you may encounter challenges, and handling those challenges on your own might seem impossible. In that case, an immigration lawyer can help you with his/her specialized knowledge of U.S. immigration law and assist in the following circumstances: If you’ve prior immigration violations Immigration violation including cases like prior visa denials, visa overstays, or inadmissibility issues is a serious scenario from which only an experienced and professional lawyer like ours can help. If you’re currently out of status in the U.S. Being out of status or living as an undocumented immigrant in the U.S. is a matter of great concern as it multiplies the complexities befalling you, in this case, seek assistance from an immigration lawyer who’ll certainly navigate the best path for you. If you’ve criminal history If the USCIS discovers that you've a criminal history, your chance of receiving visa or immigration benefits in the U.S. or of sponsoring your family member for a green card will be jeopardized. An immigration lawyer is highly sought-after to get assistance in filing for a waiver of inadmissibility to heighten the chances of approval. If you’re encountering deportation or removal proceedings In case you encounter deportation or removal proceedings or experience the immigration court system, an immigration lawyer can represent your case in court, assist you by forming a powerful defense, or explore other possibilities to prevent deportation. If you need to expedite your application An immigration lawyer can help you expedite the application process with the USCIS in case there’s an emergency and you’re desperate to get the final decision on your case. If you want help to figure out your immigration options Choosing the best from multiple immigration options can be quite critical, in this case, enlisting an experienced immigration lawyer like ours can prove to be a wise decision as s/he helps ensure that you explore all possible options and select the best based on your convenience. If you’ve a unique case or specific legal queries While every foreign national walk through a unique and special path to citizenship and encompass exclusively different journeys, every applicant will have presumably different queries, concerns, and more. An immigration lawyer can answer your questions and resolve your doubts. If you need English language help during the process Communicating or reading documents in English can be a bit challenging in case you’ve studied in vernacular or have never been exposed to this foreign tongue, in this case, an immigration lawyer can advocate on your behalf during the naturalization and interview process. Can anyone fill out immigration forms? While you don’t need a lawyer or anyone to fill out your immigration forms, having an experienced and professional immigration lawyer who can review your forms before submission can be the best option. As a naïve applicant possibly filling out the forms for the first time, it’s quite natural that you may make mistakes. Therefore, seeking guidance from an immigration lawyer can save you enough time and money and help you get rid of delays or denials. Moreover, the immigration laws are highly dynamic. It’ll be quite difficult for a layman to keep up with the dynamic nature of these laws and their implementation. An immigration lawyer who specializes in the immigration sector can benefit you, right from assisting you in filling out the immigration forms to ensuring your cordial stay in the U.S. Feel free to contact us. What if my case is more straightforward? Don’t look for a lawyer if your case is straightforward you're absolutely eligible for the benefits you desire, or carry no criminal record or immigration violation cases. You can potentially initiate the immigration all by yourself and independently move to obtain U.S. immigration benefits with no legal assistance from any immigration lawyer. Do I need a lawyer in the interview? Whether you demand that a lawyer accompany you during the interview depends on your circumstances. While it’s not mandatory to ensure the lawyer’s presence, it can be beneficial to have legal representation, especially if you’ve a complicated case or are concerned about potential issues. If you’re self-assured that you can solely handle the immigration process and possess a straightforward case, you may not need a lawyer. However, if you’ve concerns about your case or must address a request for evidence (RFE) or notice of intent to deny (NOID), it may be wise to seek legal counsel. A lawyer can aid you in comprehending the issues in your case and develop a strategy to address them. Ultimately, the decision to hire a lawyer for your interview is up to you. Consider your circumstances thoroughly and then determine whether legal representation would be beneficial in attaining your immigration goals. Conclusion Whether you need a lawyer to fill out immigration forms is a personal choice, however, don’t put yourself in any unpleasant situation. To remain on the safer side, seek legal assistance from a supportive and thoughtful immigration lawyer who has both expertise and experience in the field. At h1bvisajobs.com, we’ve a pool of top-notch, talented, and highly experienced immigration lawyers who’ll assist you throughout the immigration process. Our professional lawyers endeavor to review your forms and documents comprehensively, offer unlimited live support, and personalized interview preparation, and ensure approval or refund. Willing to reach out to us? Call us now at this number ____. References https://www.uscis.gov/citizenship/learn-about-citizenship/commonly-asked-questions-about-the-naturalization-process
While one can't obtain U.S. citizenship for free, there are certain programs such as fee waiver or fee reduction to reduce the cost. In this article, we'll provide you with detailed information regarding fee waiver or fee reduction programs and the ways to meet the eligibility criteria. Nothing can be owned without spending a single penny. Everything has a price. That said, the USCIS provides a fee waiver program and a reduced fee option to those applicants who meet certain specific requirements. Beginning on April 1, 2024, the application fee is $710 for the ones who're filing online and $760 for the ones who're filing on paper by mail. Waivers of Filing Fees or Biometric Services Fees for Those Unable to Pay One can request a fee waiver for the U.S. citizenship application Form N-400. The fee waiver application consists of Form I-912 which must be submitted to the USCIS along with the application and documents that support your claim of fee waiver. It's quite natural that the foreign national may not be in a position (financially) to pay a handsome amount to get U.S. citizenship, hence they may seek a fee waiver. However, one must remember that s/he must meet eligibility criteria to ask for a waiver. Eligibility for a Fee Waiver There are two types of fee waivers- a full fee waiver and a partial fee waiver. Both of these types include different application forms. The eligibility criteria for a fee waiver rely on a particular situation or organization. The eligibility for a full fee waiver can be attained if you belong to any one of the following criteria: You or your spouse, or the head of your household receive public benefits (like food stamps/EBT, Medicaid, SSI (Supplemental Security Income), TANF, Section 8 housing) To apply for the full fee waiver if you belong to this group, you must do the following: Fill up Form I-912. Get the award letter from the agency that grants you the benefit, for instance, DSHS or the Department of Health and Social Services. The award letter must contain the agency logo and must be current enough (within six months) to validate your claim for fee waiver. Submit all forms- I-912, N-400, and the award letter together. Get the receipt of a confirmation letter from USCIS within one to two months of the approval of your fee waiver. Get the receipt of the denial letter from USCIS within one to two months of the denial of your fee waiver. Fix the issue and resubmit. Note: Remember that your children’s reception of public benefits doesn't qualify you or your spouse as eligible for the waiver. Only Medicaid (for low-income people) qualifies as a benefit for the fee waiver, not Medicare (for anyone over the age of 65). Only SSI (Supplemental Security Income for the elderly, blind, or disabled) qualifies as a benefit for the fee waiver not Social Security income for retired people. Your household income is at or below 150% of the federal poverty level (about $38,000 for a family of 4) To apply for the full fee waiver if you belong to this group, you must do the following: Ensure that your household income aligns with the given range. Fill up Form I-912. Submit last year's tax return, paycheck stubs, or letter from the present employer demonstrating current income. Submit all forms- I-912, N-400, and other necessary documents together. Get the receipt of a confirmation letter from USCIS within one to two months of the approval of your fee waiver. Get the receipt of the denial letter from USCIS within one to two months of the denial of your fee waiver. Fix the issue and resubmit. Note: Remember, you must be careful in filling up the forms and submitting all essential proofs that validate your household income. A non-profit organization can help you in case your application is returned. Be open to applying for public benefits and food stamps (SNAP or EBT) if you're approved for one. The eligibility for a partial fee waiver can be attained: If your household income is between 150 percent to 200 percent of the federal poverty level (about $38,000-$52,000 for a family of 4). You can pay a discounted filing fee of $405 or $320 if you’re above 75 years of age. To apply for the partial fee waiver if you belong to this group, you must do the following: Ensure that your household income aligns with the given range. Fill up Form I-942. Submit last year’s tax return or paycheck stubs or letter from the present employer demonstrating current income. Submit all forms- I-942, N-400, and other necessary documents (including a check for $405 or $320 if you're below or above 75 years of age) together. Get the receipt of a confirmation letter from USCIS within one to two months of the approval of your fee waiver. Get the receipt of the denial letter from USCIS within one to two months of the denial of your fee waiver. Fix the issue and resubmit with the full filing fee. Note: Be careful in filling up the forms and submitting all essential proofs that validate your household income to gain eligibility for a partial fee waiver. A non-profit organization can help you in case your application is returned. There is one more eligibility requirement i.e. having/showing a ‘good moral character’ which is applicable in all three cases mentioned above. Be careful with that information which will be unveiled after you ask for a fee waiver and that will adversely affect your application for citizenship and ‘good moral character’ determination. If the USCIS discovers that you're receiving public benefits unlawfully, or you've filed for bankruptcy or have credit judgments against you, they'll deduce the fact that you lack good moral character and that you're exploiting the U.S. economic system. Moreover, if you fail to pay child support irrespective of any cause, then your moral character is questionable for the USCIS. Conclusion You can be eligible for a fee waiver on the application and biometrics fees only when your annual income is lower than 150% of the federal poverty level or you experience any financial adversity. To apply for a fee waiver, you will need to provide documentation of your household income, such as tax returns or a letter from an employer along with the citizenship application. We, at h1bvisajobs.com, provide free citizenship assistance through workshops to enlighten you with the process of application so that you make no errors that could delay your application.
In your pursuit of immigration, you might encounter difficulty or get stuck in between. In that case, will your immigration come to a halt? Or you'll ponder over it and take immediate action? Remember, the immigration office or department is a government body that handles issues related to immigration and visas. In the United States, the main agency is United States Citizenship and Immigration Services. How do I speak to a live person at USCIS? You can speak to a live person at USCIS by calling their Contact Center at the Toll-Free Number- 800-375-5283 (VRS 877-709-5797). This is free of cost. Notably, there is a different toll-free number that caters to the needs of people having speech or auditory difficulty: 800-767-1833. In case, you need to call outside the U.S., you must dial 212-620-3418. The days and times that facilitate live customer service include Monday through Friday from 8 AM to 8 PM Easter Time. However, there is full-time accessibility of automated assistance through an interactive voice response system. Military helplines for members and their families of the armed forces, premium processing, and intercountry adoption lines are provided by USCIS. Head over to the USCIS customer service webpage to avail of it. You can contact USCIS support via email When you visit the USCIS help page, you'll find designated USIS email addresses for submitting requests about pending or arbitrated applications. You must ensure that the request is routed correctly by checking out the USCIS guide available on their "contact us page". You can send an email to the accurate USCIS service center that has jurisdiction over your case to check your case status. Having received an email that seems suspicious, fraudulent, scam alert, and that claims to be affiliated with USCIS, the same must be forwarded to uscis.webmaster@usics.dhs.gov. You can contact USCIS customer service by chat If you seek a quick response from USCIS, then avail of USCIS support chat assistance. It's an AI-based virtual assistant called Emma. Go to www.uscis.gov, sign into your account, and find a small dialogue box in the top right corner of the page. Before clicking on it, look through the thorough instructions on the ways to use a chatbot. Follow the instructions after inserting your question. In most cases, Emma will direct you to links to the guidelines or articles that can assist you in resolving your issue. Corporate office address U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services 111 Massachusetts Ave. NW First Floor (MS 2180) Washington, District of Columbia 20529-2180 United States In-person assistance In-person appointments can be scheduled for applicants, petitioners, and requestors seeking services that can't served over the phone, mail, or email. These include- emergency travel documents if you require evidence of your immigration status to work or travel if you've been issued permanent residence through an Immigration Judge. Are you willing to use live assistance? If you're willing to use live assistance, you may have to wait to contact a USCIS Contact Center representative by phone. The number is already provided. The USCIS Contact Center has multiple tiers of live assistance. The first tier (Tier 1) of live assistance intends to resolve a variety of inquiries without forwarding these to the next tier (Tier 2) i.e. USCIS Immigration Service Officers. Before indulging in any subsequent assistance, try out USCIS online tools. The following inquiries are the most basic inquiries that are largely managed at Tier 1 and won't be escalated to Tier 2 for resolution unless complexity or confusion takes over the inquiry and makes it unresolvable at Tier 1: Case status—note that self-service options like Case Status Online and the USCIS online account will encompass the same information that is available to the USCIS Contact Center; Requests to expedite an application, petition, or request; Rescheduling an appointment, including biometrics, interview, or oath ceremony—note that asylum applicants will be escalated to Tier 2; Non-delivery of a secure document or non-receipt of a notice such as an interview notice, Request for Evidence (RFE), or appointment notice; Special accommodation, which can also be requested online; Typographical errors which are based on USCIS errors; and Requests to withdraw an application, petition, or request. Change of Address, if requested before biometrics have been scheduled; Requests to expedite an appointment for biometrics; Certain issues for military members and/or their families that cannot be resolved at Tier 1; Requests to extend travel authorization for beneficiaries of a Form I-134A, Online Request to be a Supporter and Declaration of Financial Support; and Requests for in-person appointments for document services. If your inquiry is escalated to Tier 2, you may receive a response by email or a follow-up phone call. When speaking with a Tier 1 Contact Center representative, you will be asked if you wish to receive a text ahead notification if a USCIS Immigration Services Officer needs to contact you by phone. You must verbally agree to receive this text ahead of notification. The following inquiries are handled at Tier 2: If you’re outside the U.S., you can call 212-620-3418 If you’ve a previously filed, pending, or approved VAWA, T, or U-related case, including a Form I-751 Abuse Waiver, the USCIS Contact Center must confirm your identity and validate your eligibility to get information before providing any information or other requested service. You should possess these two things before calling the USCIS Contact Center: Your receipt notice(s) for the particular form(s) on which you would like to request information or other services for reference during the call; and A copy of the pending or approved application or petition that you are calling about is readily available, if possible. Protected individuals may also send a secure message from their USCIS online account, and USCIS will call the person to complete the enhanced identity verification through the specialized verification process. Once a protected person's identity has been verified through this process, the Contact Center can respond to the inquiry or assist. If the USCIS Contact Center is unable to provide information or to make the change that you requested, you may be scheduled for an in-person appointment at a USCIS field office. Credit: https://www.uscis.gov/contactcenter Online Tools Before indulging in any subsequent assistance, try out USCIS online tools. The online tools include: Case Status- uscis.gov/casestatus Processing Times- uscis.gov/processingtimes Case Questions- You can visit uscis.gov/e-request, in case: your document or notice contains a mistake made by the USCIS. your document or notice isn’t delivered. you seek accommodation for an appointment. Other Online Tools- Find other USCIS online tools at gov/tools. Change of Address- You must ensure to keep your address current at gov/addresschange. It’s highly suggested that you must submit your change of address to USCIS through a USCIS online account. If you don’t possess a USCIS online account, it can be created by following the instructions on the How to Create a USCIS Online Accountpage. Online Filing—You can submit the most popular forms online with a USCIS online account. Maintaining an online account allows you to: sign up for automatic case alerts check processing times upload evidence update your address send secure messages to USCIS using any device Reschedule Biometrics Services- Rescheduling most requests for biometric services appointments can be done through a USCIS online account. You cannot reschedule an appointment that already has been rescheduled two or more times, is within twelve hours of the scheduled time, or has already passed. In case, you can’t reschedule your biometrics appointment online, you must call the Contact Center to reschedule your appointment. Why Do People Call United States Citizenship and Immigration Services? People mostly call USCIS to seek answers to the following questions: Request for Information question Shipping and Delivery question Cards question Product/ Service question Activation/ Cancellation question Employment question Staff question Return/ Replace question Website/ Application question Miscellaneous question Reference https://www.uscis.gov/contactcenter https://united-states-citizenship-and-immigration-services.pissedconsumer.com/customer-service.html
Are you persecuted? Do you fear persecution in your current location (country)? If yes, then you may seek asylum status in the U.S. An asylum is a form of protection that is granted to people who have been persecuted or are frightened they’ll be persecuted on account of race, caste, religion, nationality, membership in a specific social group, or political opinion. These people who seek refugee status or asylum in the United States are of special humanitarian concern to the U.S. You may apply for asylum in the U.S. irrespective of your country of origin or your current immigration status. Asylum status is available to people who: Meet the definition of refugee Are already residing in the United States Are seeking admission at a port of entry Overview of Asylum You've to meet certain requirements to apply for asylum. The filing of the application can be done only if you’re physically present in the U.S. you aren’t a citizen of the U.S. It’s to be noted that only affirmative asylum applicants can choose to file an online Form I-589. However, there are conditions applied. These affirmative asylum applicants may not file the form if they: are under proceedings in immigration court or before the Board of Immigration Appeals. are an unaccompanied alien child {as defined in 6 U.S.C. § 279(g)} and are in removal proceedings. belong to the category of applicants who must file by mail with the Asylum Vetting Center as outlined in the Special Instructions section of our Form I-589 webpage. have already submitted Form I-589 with USCIS which is still under the status of being 'pending'. Having gained the eligibility for asylum, you may be permitted to remain in the U.S. For applying for asylum affirmatively or defensively, you must file a Form I-589 (Application for Asylum and for Withholding of Removal) within one year of your stay in the U.S. Your spouse or children who are physically present in the U.S. can be included as dependents on your affirmative or defensive asylum application at the time you file or at any time until a final decision is made on your application. However, if you’re willing to include your child as a dependent on your application, the child must be unmarried and under 21 years old. File a Form I-730 (Refugee/Asylum Relative Petition). In case, your asylum application is pending with USCIS, you can check its status at Case Status Online. The receipt number that is given to you after you file your application must be ready with you. Types of Asylums There are two ways to claim asylum in the United States based on removal proceedings: Affirmative Asylum: It’s a form of protection that allows individuals who are already in the U.S. to apply for asylum regardless of their current immigration status. This process is for people who aren’t in removal proceedings and permits them to proactively seek protection because of fear of being persecuted in their home country. If the USCIS asylum officer denies the application, the individual is then placed in removal proceedings and can renew the asylum request through the defensive process, presenting their case before an immigration judge. Defensive Asylum: It’s a form of protection sought by individuals who are in the U.S. and are encountering removal proceedings. It’s a process where individuals can request asylum as a defense against deportation. This occurs when an individual applies for asylum as a defense against removal from the U.S. during a hearing in immigration court, typically after being apprehended at the border or when their visa status has expired. The application must be filled with an immigration judge at the EOIR (Executive Office for Immigration Review). Besides defensive asylum, there are other forms of protection in the U.S. Withholding of Removal: Withholding of removal is a form of protection that allows individuals to remain in the United States if they can demonstrate that it is more likely than not that they would face persecution or harm in their home country. Unlike asylum, withholding of removal does not provide a path to permanent residency or citizenship, but it does protect individuals from being removed to a country where they would face persecution. Relief under the Convention Against Torture (CAT): It’s a form of protection available to individuals who can demonstrate that they would more likely than not be tortured if they were returned to their home country. This protection is available regardless of the individual's immigration status and provides a defense against deportation. If granted, individuals are not removed to a country where they would face torture. Restrictions Notably, a few restrictions can severely affect your eligibility to apply for asylum. These are also called “bars” to asylum. You may not be eligible to apply for asylum if you: Haven’t followed the one-year filing deadline for Form I-589, Application for Asylum and for Withholding of Removal. The one-year deadline is calculated from the date of your last arrival in the U.S. or April 1, 1997, whichever is later. Had a previous asylum application denied by an immigration judge or the Board of Immigration Appeals. Can be deported to a safe third country under a two-party or multi-party agreement between the United States and other countries. There are exceptions to these restrictions (bars) for “changed circumstances” or “extraordinary circumstances.” Permission to work in the United States To apply for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) based on your pending asylum application, you must file Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Besides, you must include supporting documents such as a copy of your I-589, Application for Asylum and for Withholding of Removal, the receipt notice for your asylum application, and any other required evidence or documentation. It's important to adhere to the instructions provided by USCIS and submit the necessary fees, if applicable. You’ll not be counted eligible to receive an EAD until your asylum application has been pending for at least another 30 days, for a total of 180 days, widely cited as the 180-Day Asylum EAD Clock. Delays that you may request or cause, however, do not count toward the 180-day eligibility period, and may include, but are not limited to, requesting additional time to gather evidence, asking to transfer a case to a new asylum office or interview location, including when the transfer is based on your change of address failing to appear at an interview or biometrics appointment rescheduling interviews or hearings due to valid reasons submitting large volumes of evidence immediately before an interview that requires a reschedule failing to provide a competent interpreter at an interview (if necessary) failing to receive and acknowledge an asylum decision in person (if required) Be cautious, because if you’re denied asylum, your employment authorization will terminate when your EAD expires or 60 days after the denial, whichever is later. Filing for permanent residence (Green Card) After the completion of one year of being granted asylum, you’ll be approved for a green card. For that, you must file a Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or to Adjust Status. For yourself and your family members who will be acknowledged derivative asylum based on your application, you must submit a separate Form I-485. Conclusion You must have understood, that asylum is a type of protective status that is granted to people who’ve been persecuted or are intimidated with the fear of being persecuted on account of race, caste, religion, nationality, membership in a specific social group, or political opinion. There are conditions applied to file an asylum application i.e. one must be physically present in the U.S. and s/he must not be a citizen of the U.S. The asylee can petition to bring his/her spouse or children to the U.S. within two years of being granted asylum unless there are humanitarian causes for the excuse of the deadline. Interestingly, no fee will be charged. References https://www.uscis.gov/humanitarian/refugees-and-asylum/asylum https://www.uscis.gov/humanitarian/refugees-asylum
Getting a green card by marrying a U.S. citizen is one of the most common paths to U.S. citizenship. Are you aware of the process? Can you marry a U.S. citizen just to get residency? How much does it cost? Here’s a guide for your rescue! Hopefully, it will cater to all your doubts and queries and provide you with the best possible answer. Let’s begin from scratch. Having a green card, also called LPR or Lawful Permanent Resident card, implies living and working permanently in the U.S. In case, you’re married to a U.S. citizen or a green card holder, you become eligible to get a marriage-based green card. This article will provide you with an overview of the average cost by breaking down the costs associated with obtaining a green card through marriage. How long do you have to be married to get a green card? Interestingly, there’s no minimum amount of time you ought to be married to get a green card. However, two years is said to be the ideal duration of a legit marriage. If you’re married to a U.S.-based spouse for less than two years, you'll be given a Conditional Green Card. USCIS will examine your case carefully to ascertain that your marriage is bona fide. Cost of filing for a green card from outside the U.S. It’s to be noted that the final cost for a marriage-based green card filed from outside the U.S. seems to be lower than filing from within. Different forms must be filed by you and your spouse. This process of application is called consular processing. Below is the breakdown of primary expenses: Filing Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative and the I-130A supplement) will cost you $535 Filing Form I-864 (Affidavit of Support Fee) will cost you $120 Immigrant Visa Application Processing Fees will cost you $325 DS-260 (Online Visa Application) will cost you $0 Filing Form I-693 (Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record) will cost you $0, however, doctors performing the exam set fees that range from $200 - $400. USCIS Immigrant Fee, which must be paid before obtaining the Green Card, will be $220 Note: The payment must be done one by one, according to the process. Cost of filing for a green card from within the U.S. The filing fees for applications submitted from within the U.S. are higher than estimated: Filing Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative and the I-130A supplement) which pertains to verifying your identity and relationship will cost you $535. Filing Form I-864 (Affidavit of Support) which is pertained to show the spouse’s financial stability will cost you $0. Filing Form I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status) which is used to change your visa status to a Green Card will cost you $1,225. Filing Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization) which is used in case you want to work while your case is pending will cost you $0, and it’s optional. Filing Form I-131 (Application for Travel Document) which is used in case you wish to travel outside the U.S. while your case is pending will cost you $0, as it’s optional. Filing Form I-693 (Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record) which is used to verify your sound health condition will cost you $0, however, doctors performing the exam set their fees, which often range from $150 - $300. Note: Not all forms are essential and most people submit all forms at the same time. Renewal cost Simply, possessing a green card doesn’t imply that your aim is achieved. You’ve to keep renewing your green card after obtaining it. In case, you’re married to a U.S.-based spouse for less than two years, you'll be given a Conditional Green Card. After the completion of two years, you must apply to eradicate the applied conditions. Filing of Form I-751 (Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence) will cost you $595. The green card must be renewed after every 10 years. In case, it’s stolen, lost, or meant to be replaced, you can apply for a new card. Filing Form I-90 {Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card (Green Card)} will cost you $455. Miscellaneous cost The miscellaneous cost depends on your circumstances which include Vaccination Fees and other medical fees, if you’re diagnosed with a health issue Document fees Translation fees Passport photo fees Travel cost Shipping cost Waiver fees Legal fees What is the Green Card Through Marriage Processing Time? / How long does it take to get a marriage green card after you apply? The green card through marriage processing time ranges between 10 and 38 months, depending on whether you’re married to a U.S. citizen or LPR and the current location of your residence. USCIS demands the submission of necessary documents and when they do, you must submit it as soon as possible. The longer you procrastinate, the longer your petition will take to process. The documents required to apply for a green card through marriage can include: Marriage certificate Birth certificate Proof of sponsor’s citizenship or lawful permanent residence Proof of the beneficiary’s legal entry to the United States Police clearance certificate, if it applies to your situation Divorce decrees or death certificates from previous marriages, if applicable Medical examination results Military records, if applicable Bank statements Tax returns Other supporting documentation that the officer handling your case requires Apart from these basic documents, other needed documents include: Joint utility bills Proof that you and your spouse own property together A lease that shows both of your names Bank statements for accounts you share jointly Tax returns that show you filed jointly Wedding information, such as invitations, guestbooks, and even photos of both of you at your wedding Proof that you’ve taken trips together Photos with your spouse The Green Card Marriage Interview A green card marriage interview is the last step towards attaining a green card. Our experience of assisting millions of aspiring immigrants has led us to prepare a list of the most basic and probable questions that are raised during the interview. Take a note of the questions mentioned below: Where and how did you meet? What did you find that you had in common after you met? Where was your first date? How long were you together before you decided to get married? How many people attended your wedding? When did you meet each other’s parents? Who were your bridesmaids and groomsmen? Where was your honeymoon? Who takes care of the finances in your family? Do you plan on having children? Have you ever been on a vacation together? When is your spouse’s birthday? When was the last time you saw your spouse’s family? How many brothers and sisters does your spouse have, and what are their names? Where did your spouse go to school? Note: These couple of questions are the most obvious ones. You’re highly advised to be ready with other essential details related to your spouse. What is a Stokes interview? A Stokes interview, also known as a marriage fraud interview, is a kind of interview conducted by immigration authorities to assess the validity of a marriage between a foreign national and a US citizen or permanent resident. The purpose of the interview is to discern whether the relationship is authentic or if it was entered into circumventing immigration laws. The interview typically involves separate questioning of both partners to assess the consistency of their answers and the authenticity of their relationship. Can You Work While You Wait for USCIS To Approve Your Marriage Green Card? Yes, you can work while you wait for USCIS to approve your marriage green card if you've already applied for an employment authorization document (EAD) along with your green card application. Once you receive your EAD, you are eligible to work in the United States while your green card application is being processed. It's crucial to ensure that you’ve the appropriate documentation and authorization before beginning any employment. Conclusion Considering the pathways to get legal and permanent entry into the U.S., obtaining a green card through marriage proves to be the most preferable way. However, it’s to be noted that you can’t fake your marriage just to live and work permanently in the U.S., but if you do so, you’ll have to face repercussions for deceiving USCIS. Hopefully, you’re aware of the application process and costs which vary based on whether you apply from outside or inside the U.S. Still, carry any doubt? Feel free to contact h1bvisajobs.com! We’re accessible, always and forever.
Navigating the crucial aspects of immigration law, which is so dynamic and complex, all alone like a one-man army will be a risky move. In any case, you must seek an immigration lawyer. However, the most basic query that can overwhelm your rational mind is the cost of hiring an immigration lawyer. In this article, you’ll be guided through the factors that cause immigration lawyers' fees to vary, the factors to be kept in mind while selecting an immigration lawyer, and the standard fee structure. Considerations for Hiring a Lawyer Here are some of the benefits of hiring an immigration lawyer: The attorney will be familiar with the immigration process and ensure that your application is completed correctly and efficiently. The attorney can represent you in front of USCIS if there are any problems with your application or petition. The attorney can help you understand the requirements of the H-1B visa and answer any questions that you may have. In case you’ve made up your mind to hire an attorney, it's vital to weigh the costs and benefits of the same. You must also calculate the value an immigration lawyer brings to your table before you decide to hire one. Our professional immigration lawyers at H1bvisajobs.com provide you with peace of mind and a guaranteed promise to fulfill your dream of living and working in the U.S. How to Choose the Right Immigration Lawyer It is important to do your research and interview several immigration attorneys before choosing one. Here are some of the factors you should consider when choosing an immigration attorney: Experience: Make sure the attorney has experience handling immigration processes. You can ask about their experience with similar cases along with the number of cases they’ve represented in court. You should also make sure that the attorney is a member of AILA (America Immigration Lawyers Association), as this shows that they are familiar with the latest immigration laws and regulations. Fees: Get quotes from several attorneys before making a decision. Be sure to understand what services are included in the fee and what additional fees may be incurred. Education: The attorney should have a law degree from an accredited law school. A master's degree in immigration law is not required, but it is a plus. Track record: Ask about the attorney's track record of success. How many H-1B visa petitions have they filed? What is their success rate? Communication: Make sure you feel comfortable communicating with the attorney. You’ll need to be able to ask questions and get clear answers throughout the process. Availability: Make sure the attorney is available to answer your questions and help you with your case. You should be able to get in touch with them in the time of crisis. It’s also important to remember that the cheapest option isn’t always the best option. You may end up paying more in the long run if you choose an attorney who isn’t experienced or who doesn’t have a good track record. The U.S. employer must attest that s/he will pay the foreign worker the prevailing wage for the position and must file a Labor Condition Application (LCA) with the Department of Labor. How Much Does an Immigration Lawyer Cost? It is worth noting that the immigration process is complex and can be challenging to navigate without legal assistance. And immigration lawyers tend not to be significantly paid legal professionals. However, few cases related to family and asylum-based applicants demand extra involvement and additional care, so the fees are adjusted accordingly. The cost of hiring an immigration attorney can vary depending on the: Experience of the immigration lawyer- the wider the experience, the higher will be the price. Complexity of your case- More complicated cases demand extra time, effort, and expertise, resulting in higher costs. Demand for the services- Services that are mostly in demand lead to higher costs. Location of the attorney- If the immigration lawyer is local and resides within the periphery of your locality or in small cities, then the cost may vary, as in it’ll be lower. Before selecting an immigration lawyer, you must get a quote from as many immigration lawyers as you can for the services that you seek. In fact, doing an initial consultation with the immigration lawyer is also highly recommended. This will help you to evaluate the level of comfort s/he offers and the fees s/he charges. Some immigration lawyers offer free initial consultation, while some charge fees. The initial consultation charges range anything from $100 to $400. By spending the amount, you can grab the benefits of inquiring about their fee structure for your specific case and later compare the fee structures offered by different immigration lawyers to ensure that you get the best deal without compromising on the service quality. Some immigration lawyers charge on an hourly basis, which ranges between $150 to $300, while some charge a flat fee or contingency fee for a specific application. What Are the Average Costs for an Immigration Lawyer? As mentioned above, some factors can potentially influence the actual cost of an immigration lawyer. Below are the average costs you might be expected to pay to an immigration lawyer for varied visa kinds. Notably, these fees don’t include USCIS filing fees. Cost for Work Visas Here’s the list of work visas and the average fees you’re expected to pay to the immigration lawyer: H1B Visa – $1,195 to $1,495 H4 visa – $200 to $400 H1B1 visa – $995 J1 visa waiver – $995 L1 visa – $2,500 E3 visa – $500 TN visa – $500. Cost for Visitor Visas Expect to pay the following average lawyer fees in case you plan to visit the U.S. on a B-visa, or you need to renew, extend, or change your B1 or B2 visa: B1 visa – $400 B1 or B2 visa renewal, extension, or change of status application – $400. Cost for Spouse and Fiancé Visas For fiancé or spouse visas, you can expect to pay the following average attorney fees: K1 visa (filed for the fiancé of a U.S. citizen) – $750 to $2000 CR-1 petition (filed for the spouse of a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident) – $795 Note that these fees don’t include the adjustment of the status application, which follows later. Cost for Green Cards The average green card lawyer fees are mentioned below: Marriage-based green card– $800 to $4000 If you are a sibling of a U.S. citizen – $795 If you are a parent of a U.S. citizen – $795 Employer-Sponsored Labor Certification with PERM (Program Electronic Review Management) – $2000 Multinational Executives and Managers & L-1A Visa Holders – $2500 Outstanding Professors or Researchers – $1500 Registered Nurses – $1400 Physical Therapists – $1400 I-140 based adjustment of status – $825 National Interest Waiver – $2900 AC-21 Portability for Pending I-485 Petitions – $395 EB1 Extraordinary Ability – $2900. Cost for U.S. Citizenship You can expect to pay an average fee of $500 in case you need an immigration attorney to help you with your N-400, Application for Naturalization. Schedule a Consultation Today At h1bvisajobs.com, we understand the complexities involved in navigating dynamic rules and regulations of immigration and the challenges that one may encounter. Therefore, our team of experienced immigration lawyers is committed to offering you the substantial support and expertise you need while obtaining your immigration goals. Besides, we offer free initial consultation. If you’re wondering as to how much an immigration lawyer will cost or have any other queries, you must contact us . Call us now! Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) How Much Does an Immigration Lawyer Cost on Average? The cost of hiring an immigration attorney can vary depending on the experience of the immigration lawyer, the complexity of your case, the services you demand, and the location of the lawyer. The average cost of an immigration lawyer ranges from a few hundred dollars for simple cases to several thousand dollars for complex immigration cases. A few instances of different immigration cases and the associated costs are mentioned below: Family-based immigration: $1,500 – $5,000 Employment-based immigration issues: $2,000 – $7,000 Green card assistance: $800 – $5,000. Citizenship and naturalization: $1,000 – $3,000 Asylum and refugee applications: $1,000 – $7,000 Deportation defense: $2,000 – $15,000 (Sometimes more, as it’s a highly sensitive and complicated matter). What Are the Different Fee Structures for Immigration Lawyers? There are several fee structures that immigration lawyers may use, including: Hourly Rate: Some immigration lawyers charge an hourly rate for their services. The total cost will depend on the number of hours worked on your case. Flat Fee: With this structure, the lawyer charges a set fee for specific immigration services, regardless of the time spent on the case. Contingency Fee: In some cases, immigration lawyers may work on a contingency fee basis, where they only receive payment if they win your case or secure a specific outcome. Retainer Fee: Some lawyers may require a retainer fee upfront, which is a deposit against which hourly fees are charged as the case progresses. It's worth discussing fee structures with potential immigration lawyers to understand their billing practices and ensure transparency in the financial aspect of your case. What Additional Costs Should I Consider When Hiring an Immigration Lawyer? Besides paying the lawyer’s fees, you must consider the following additional costs: Filing fees with USCIS. Translation and document preparation fees. Travel expenses, if required. Expenses related to medical exams or background checks. Application fees for visas or green cards. Can I Get a Free Consultation with an Immigration Lawyer? Definitely! Some immigration lawyers offer free initial consultation, while some charge fees. Such consultation helps you to grab the benefits of inquiring about their fee structure for your specific case and later compare the fee structures offered by different immigration lawyers to ensure that you get the best deal without compromising on the service quality.
If you're reading this article, it could mean only a few things- either you’re in a phase of seeking permanent residency in the U.S. or you’re enriching your knowledge on the topic. We extend our best wishes to you. In this article, you'll be guided through the entire process of a green card interview, whether you need a lawyer for a green card interview, the most expected questions during the interview, the documents that you’re expected to submit, and more. What is a green card interview, and when does it happen? A green card interview refers to the process through which the USCIS officer meets the green card applicant and confirms his/her qualifications and eligibility as mentioned on the application. In other terms, it’s a face-to-face meeting, a way to verify the information provided in the application. It’s the final step in the green card application process to guarantee that the applicant is qualified for permanent residency in the U.S. The interview, typically, is a series of questions related to topics such as the applicant's background, employment history, financial status, criminal record, and immigration history. Generally, the interview takes place seven to fifteen months after the green card application has been submitted, and the applicant will receive a notice with the date, time, and location of the interview. It takes place in a local USCIS office or at the U.S. embassy or consulate which is the nearest to the address provided in the application. How can I contact an immigration lawyer? While there are several ways to contact an immigration lawyer if you need legal assistance with your immigration case, you must choose from the below-mentioned options: Referral from family or friends: Ask for a referral from your family, friends, or relatives has gone through the immigration process and used an immigration lawyer. Bar association referral services: You must note several state bar associations provide referral services, which can assist you find a professional and experienced immigration lawyer in your area. You can find your local bar association by searching online. Online search: Use online directories such as the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) directory or Avvo to look for immigration lawyers in your area using. USCIS website: The USCIS website has enlisted several nonprofit organizations that offer free or low-cost legal assistance to immigrants. These organizations may be able to provide you with a referral to an immigration lawyer. Legal aid organizations: If you can’t bear the expenses of an immigration lawyer, you may be able to get free or low-cost legal assistance from a legal aid organization in your area. After the task of identifying and shortlisting potential lawyers, you can contact them to schedule an initial consultation to discuss your case and determine if they’re suitable for you. Do you need a lawyer there? Whether you demand that a lawyer accompany you during the green card interview depends on your circumstances. While it’s not mandatory to ensure the lawyer’s presence, it can be beneficial to have legal representation, especially if you’ve a complicated case or are concerned about potential issues. If you’re self-assured that you can solely handle the immigration process and possess a straightforward case, you may not need a lawyer. However, if you’ve concerns about your case or must address a request for evidence (RFE) or notice of intent to deny (NOID), it may be wise to seek legal counsel. A lawyer can aid you in comprehending the issues in your case and develop a strategy to address them. Ultimately, the decision to hire a lawyer for your green card interview is up to you. Consider your circumstances thoroughly and determine whether legal representation would be beneficial in attaining your immigration goals. What are the benefits of having a lawyer with you? Having a lawyer with you during the green card interview can be extremely beneficial. Here are the benefits: Preparation: A lawyer can assist you prepare for the interview by reviewing your case file and identifying potential issues. Besides, they can help you avoid delays or RFE and practice your responses to the most basic questions that may be posed during the interview. Protection: The presence of a lawyer during the interview can bring significant change as s/he can protect your rights and ensure that the USCIS officer follows proper procedures. If the officer bombards you with inappropriate or irrelevant questions, a lawyer can raise objections and prevent the officer from overreaching. Advocacy: In case, the officer raises any concerns or issues during the interview, a lawyer can help address those concerns and provide additional evidence or documentation if required. They can also advocate on your behalf if necessary. Fairness: Having a lawyer with you during the green card interview can guarantee that the process is just and that your rights are respectfully secured. A lawyer can help you navigate the complex immigration system and ensure that you’re treated fairly throughout the process. What should you bring to your Green Card interview? When attending a green card interview, you must bring some documents with you to help support your application. Here are some of the documents that you should consider bringing: Government-issued I.D.: You should bring your valid passport or driver's license as proof of your identity and citizenship. You must bring your passport unless you applied for asylum or refugee status. Form I-485 (interview appointment notice): You must submit a copy of this document (Form I-797C, Notice of Action). Besides, you must attach any of these forms along with Form I-485- Form I-130, Form I-130A, Form I-131, Form I-765, or Form I-944. This will be required if you apply from inside of the U.S. Form DS-260 (interview appointment notice): You must submit a copy of this document (Form I-797C, Notice of Action). Besides, you must attach any of these forms along with DS-260- Form I-130, Form I-130A, DS-261, and DS-5540. This will be required if you apply from outside of the U.S. Form I-693 (medical examination report): You ought to provide a completed medical examination report if you haven’t already done so. Form I-864 (affidavit of support): If you are applying for a family-based green card, you must bring a completed and signed affidavit of support from your sponsor. Employment documents: If you apply for a work-based green card, you must bring documents related to your employment, such as a job offer letter or employment contract. Tax returns: You may need to provide copies of your tax returns for the past few years as proof of your financial stability. Marriage certificate/divorce decree: If you apply for a marriage-based green card, you must provide a copy of your marriage certificate. Besides, you must provide children's birth certificates, joint lease and mortgage statements, joint bank account statements, joint credit card statements, etc. In case, you were married, you must provide a copy of your divorce decree. Criminal records: If your record shows any criminal status, you must bring certified copies of your criminal records. At h1bvisajobs.com, our professional immigration lawyers can help you cautiously review the green card interview notice and any other USCIS correspondence to determine what documents you need to bring to the interview. What questions will the interviewing officer ask at your Green Card interview? During a green card interview, the interviewing officer will ask a variety of questions to verify whether the information provided in your application aligns with your answer at the interview along with determining your eligibility for permanent residency in the U.S. Here are some of the common questions that you may be asked: Personal history: You may be inquired about your background, such as your name, date of birth, and place of birth, etc. Employment history: You may be inquired about your current and previous employment, such as your job title, employer name and address, salary, etc. Financial status: You may be inquired about your financial status, such as your income, assets, debts, etc. Immigration history: You may be inquired about your immigration history, including any previous visas or immigration applications. Criminal history: You may be inquired about your criminal history, including any arrests or convictions. Marital status: You may be inquired about your marital history, including any previous marriages and divorces if you apply for a marriage-based green card. Family members: You may be inquired about your family members (spouse, children, parents, or relatives), including their names, dates of birth, immigration status, etc. What are some Green Card interview tips? Attending a green card interview can be stressful, but there are several tips that you can follow to help increase your chances of success. Here are some green card interview tips: Thoroughly review your application and supporting documentation before the interview and prepare accordingly. Dress appropriately to justify your sincerity and seriousness. Formals are highly advised. You can’t afford to be late, so arrive at least half an hour early at the interview location. Bring all the necessary documents to support your application. Be honest in your response to the queries as the interviewing officer is trained to detect fraudulence. Be confident and speak clearly: Speak clearly and confidently during the interview. If you do not understand a question, ask the officer to repeat or clarify. Be calm and composed even if the officer asks critical questions or raises concerns about your application. Follow up promptly if the officer asks for additional documentation or information after the interview. Feel free to seek legal assistance if you’ve concerns about the interview or your application. Consider these tips to ensure that your green card interview goes smoothly and increases your chances of success. Our seasoned lawyers have proved their worth by guiding and supporting innumerable clients across the globe. What happens after your Green Card interview? Do you wonder what happens after your green card interview? Here are some of the possible outcomes: Approval: The interviewing officer may approve your green card application on the spot if s/he is satisfied with your application and the information provided during the interview. Request for evidence: The officer may issue a request for evidence (RFE) if s/he seeks more information to pass final judgment on your application. You must follow up and provide the requested information within a specified timeframe. Notice of intent to deny: The officer may issue a notice of intent to deny (NOID) if s/he identifies issues with your application or has concerns about your eligibility for a green card, You will be able to respond to the NOID and provide sufficient proof to support your case. Additional interviews: In some cases, the interviewing officer may request additional interviews with you or your family members to clarify information or address concerns. Administrative processing: If your application is put into administrative processing, it means that USCIS is conducting additional background checks or reviewing your application more closely. The final decision will be communicated to you via mail. If it’s approved, you will receive your green card in the mail within a few weeks. If it’s denied, you can appeal the decision or file a motion to reopen or reconsider. Conclusion The ultimate decision to bring a lawyer in your green card interview will depend on your case and circumstances. If you consider the option, feel free to contact us at https://h1bvisajobs.com/immigrationlawyer/. We've a pool of professional lawyers who'll assist you like a friend, philosopher, and guide.
