The process of immigrating to a new country is often filled with anticipation, excitement, and a fair share of anxiety. A key step in this journey for many is the immigration interview. This interview serves as an opportunity for immigration officials to assess an applicant’s eligibility, verify information, and clarify any potential concerns. Given the...
The Diversity Visa Lottery, commonly known as the Green Card Lottery, is a U.S. government program established by the Immigration Act of 1990. It annually grants up to 55,000 immigrant visas to individuals from countries with historically low rates of immigration to the U.S. How It Works Eligibility: Applicants must be from countries with low rates...
In the midst of the southern border crisis, ongoing aid to Ukraine and Israel, and the impeachment proceedings against DHS head Alejandro Mayorkas, the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has released its 2023 fiscal year results. Key Highlights: Record-High Case Processing: USCIS processed a historic 10 million transactions, a 15% increase from 2022 and...
Filing Form N-400 (Application for Naturalization) is a complex process, and mistakes can lead to denial. If you’ve received a denial, here are your options: Appeal the Denial: Use Form N-336 (Request for a Hearing on a Decision in Naturalization Proceedings). This can be filed online or on paper within one month of receiving the denial...
Special Immigrant Juveniles (SIJ) is a program for undocumented immigrant minors who have suffered abuse, abandonment, or neglect by one or both parents that allows them to obtain a Green Card. If you are a minor who has been abandoned, abused, or neglected by your parents, you may qualify for SIJ. SIJ applicants must meet...
USCIS is preparing for a potential government shutdown in the country and is making adjustments regarding the untimely filing of documents to extend or change your status in the US. On January 25, 2024, USCIS updated its guidance and can now, at its discretion and under certain conditions, exempt a non-resident from the obligation to...
The United States EB-1 visa program is a cornerstone of the nation’s commitment to attracting and retaining exceptional talent from around the world. Designed for individuals who have demonstrated extraordinary ability in the sciences, arts, education, business, or athletics, the EB-1 visa offers a direct path to permanent residency (a “Green Card”). Why EB-1 Visas Matter EB-1...
This is a complex question. First, it is important to understand that once an asylum application is filed, the case falls under the jurisdiction of either USCIS (affirmative asylum) or an Immigration Court (defensive asylum). This means obtaining an alternative legal status would require requesting USCIS or the Court to terminate asylum proceedings. Second, it...