Archive for the ‘US Immigration’ Category:

4 Common Myths About Immigration Law Debunked

Immigration law in the United States is a complex field that is constantly changing. Unfortunately, that means that it is often misunderstood. Misconceptions about United States immigration law can stop some people from legally immigrating or even jeopardize the legal immigration status of people who are already living and working in the country. What are some of the most common myths about US immigration law?

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The Most Common Challenges Faced by Undocumented Immigrants: What Are Your Legal Options?

undocumented immigrants

Undocumented immigrants face many different challenges in their daily lives, even in a more supportive state like Maryland. The state exists within a complicated federal immigration system that has regular changes to immigration policies. Whether you are an undocumented immigrant or are a friend or family member of someone who is, working with an experienced attorney is critical to ensure that someone is fighting on your behalf. 

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The Role of Immigration Lawyers: Why Legal Representation Matters

immigration lawyer

Navigating the complexities of immigration law can be daunting, especially if you are actively dealing with an immigration issue. In important situations like these, working with an immigration lawyer is critical. Immigration lawyers can provide guidance, advocacy, and representation to individuals and families dealing with immigration challenges. Why is working with an immigration lawyer for your case so important?

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What Types of Work Visas Are Available?

work visas

While many people are familiar with the H-1B visa, the most commonly used type of work visa, there are numerous other types of work visas available. These visas cater to various categories of workers, including skilled professionals, seasonal workers, and even investors. Understanding the different types of work visas can help you better navigate the complex immigration process to the United States.

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USCIS Updated filing fees from April 1, 2024

Immigration/Visa BenefitCurrent FeeNew Fee (April 2024)Fee Increase
Form I-129 (Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker): H-1 Classification $460$780$320
Form I-129 (Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker): H-2A Classification $460$1,090$630
Form I-129 (Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker): H-2B Classification $460$1,080$620
Form I-129 (Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker): L Classification $460$1,385$925
Form I-129 (Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker): O Classification $460$1,055$595
Form I-140 (Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker)$700$715$15
Form I-907 (Request for Premium Processing) $2,500$2,805$305

Immigration BenefitCurrent FeeNew Fee (April 2024)Fee Increase
K-1 Fiancé Visa$535$675$140
CR-1 Spousal Visa$535$675$140
Adjustment of Status (Form I-485)
without Work or Travel Permits
$1,225$1,440$215
Adjustment of Status 
Form I-765 Work Permit (Optional)
$0 when filed with an Adjustment of Status$260 when filed with an Adjustment of Status$260
Adjustment of Status
Form I-131 Travel Permit (Optional)
$0 when filed with an Adjustment of Status$630$630
Adjustment of Status
with Form I-130 + Work and Travel Permits
$1,760$3,005$1,245

What Is Naturalization?

naturalization

For many immigrants to the United States, the journey doesn’t end upon arrival on US soil. Instead, it marks the beginning of a path toward citizenship through a process called naturalization. Naturalization is the legal process through which foreign nationals become US citizens. Once you become a naturalized citizen, you are granted all of the rights and privileges afforded to American citizens. What does naturalization mean?

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Can You Accelerate the Adjudication of Your Hardship Waiver Application?

hardship waiver application

The immigration process can be time-consuming, and it can be stressful to deal with the wait time when you are eager to come to the United States. US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) wants to be as fair as possible, so you must have a special reason for skipping ahead of others who applied before you. What should you know about expediting your hardship waiver application?

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Who Is Eligible for a Family-Based Green Card?

Whether you are already in America and hoping to bring your loved ones here too or you’re hoping to take advantage of a family-based green card to immigrate, it’s critical to understand the rules surrounding these tools. Family-based green cards are designed to help reunite families and provide a pathway for close relatives to live together in the United States. Here is what you should know about who is eligible for a family-based green card.

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5 Signs of a Good Immigration Lawyer

Navigating the complex world of immigration law can be a daunting task. Whether you’re looking to obtain a visa, apply for citizenship, or resolve another type of immigration issue, having an experienced and trustworthy immigration lawyer by your side can make a world of difference. How can you choose the right immigration lawyer for your situation?

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Student Visa Reinstatement

As a F1 student on a student visa in the US, the student must always have a valid student visa during the duration of study.

The student can apply for reinstatement if she/he meet certain requirements such as:

  • Failed to maintain the terms of his or her immigration status; therefore, a DSO terminated the record as a result.
  • Will resume full-time study.
  • Can prove eligibility for reinstatement according to F-1 or M-1 regulations.

Reinstatement Eligibility, Regulations and Policy Guidance

In general, to be eligible for reinstatement, the student must:

  • Not be out of status for more than five months at the time of filing or show the exceptional circumstance that prevented filing in that time frame.
  • Not have a record of repeated or willful violations of regulations.
  • Not have worked without authorization.
  • Be pursuing or intend to pursue a full course of study in the immediate future at your school.
  • Not be deportable for any reason other than failing to maintain F-1 or M-1 status.
  • Be able to show that:
    • Circumstances beyond the student’s control caused the status violation.
    • Student fell below a full course load for a reason the DSO could have used to authorize a reduced course load, and the student would experience extreme hardship, if the student fails to get reinstatement.
  • Regulations for Reinstatement can be found on F-1 reinstatement: 8 CFR 214.2(f)(16).

If you need reinstatement, please contact the Law Office of Elizabeth Anu Lawrence, LLC. on 410.986.0088, 443.352.3201 or email us at infor@elawrencelaw.com for legal help.