Green Cards
Form I-131: The Advance Parole Travel Document Explained
Jonathan Petts
Updated : 09/25/2023If you have or are applying for a green card, DACA status, or certain humanitarian visas, and you want to travel outside the United States, you need to get a travel document from the U.S. government. You apply for this document by filing Form I-131: Application for Travel Document with USCIS. This allows you to get what’s called an Advance Parole document. Below is a guide on how to apply for Advance Parole step-by-step as well as tips for to plan for your temporary travel.
Read More →How Long Does It Take USCIS To Process Marriage Green Cards for a Spouse Abroad?
Jonathan Petts and ImmigrationHelp Team
Updated : 12/12/2023As the petitioner for your foreign spouse, you’ll file Form I-130: Petition for Alien Relative with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). It’s currently taking between 14 months for USCIS to process Form I-130 for U.S. citizenship petitioners and 29 to 70.5 months for permanent resident petitioners. As the beneficiary, your spouse will file Form DS-260 with the National Visa Center. The current NVC timeframe for creating and reviewing cases is 16 days.
Read More →How Long Does It Take USCIS To Process Marriage Green Cards?
ImmigrationHelp News Team and Jonathan Petts
Updated : 12/12/2023Five U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) service centers currently process Form I-130. - The processing time for U.S. citizens filing Form I-130 for a spouse beneficiary ranges from 13-54.5 months. - The processing time for legal permanent residents filing Form I-130 for a spouse beneficiary ranges from 32-67.5 months. - The current average processing time for Form I-485 across 89 field offices is around 20 months.
Read More →Current Visa Bulletin (December 2023)
ImmigrationHelp News Team and Jonathan Petts
Written : 11/27/2023There were no changes in wait times for any family- or employment-based green card application categories in December compared to last month (November).
Read More →November 2023 Visa Bulletin (Archive)
ImmigrationHelp News Team and Jonathan Petts
Written : 10/19/2023There were no changes in wait times for all family-based and employment- based green card applicants in November, compared to last month (October).
Read More →October 2023 Visa Bulletin (Archive)
ImmigrationHelp News Team and Jonathan Petts
Updated : 09/21/2023For family-based green card applicants, there were no changes in wait times compared to last month (September). However, wait times decreased for almost employment-based green card applicants. The exception as the EB-5 category where only India and China (main land born) saw a decrease in wait times while every other country in the category saw no change.
Read More →What Is Form I-765: Application for Employment Authorization?
Jonathan Petts
Updated : 09/27/2023Form I-765 is main official form you use to apply for a work permit. To receive an Employment Authorization Document (EAD), you need to file Form I-765 with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This article explains what Form I-765 is and how it’s used. We'll also explain who can file the form, how to complete it, what supporting documents to include, and how much it costs.
Read More →What Happens at a USCIS Biometrics Appointment?
Jonathan Petts
Updated : 09/26/2023The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) requires a biometrics appointment as part of many applications for immigration benefits. This is sometimes called the "fingerprint appointment." At the appointment, the U.S. government will take your fingerprints, pictures, and signature. These are used to run a background check and for identification purposes. Usually, USCIS will schedule a date and time for the biometrics appointment for you, but sometimes you have to schedule it yourself. If you have a conflict, you can attend your scheduled biometrics appointment early or reschedule it for a later, more convenient time. But it’s best to attend at the scheduled time whenever possible.
Read More →What Is the Form I-94 Travel Record?
Jonathan Petts
Updated : 09/26/2023Nearly every foreign traveler to the United States has an I-94 travel record (also known as “Form I-94” or “I-94 Form”). U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officials issue an I-94 to foreign travelers entering the United States. CBP officials use the I-94 to track arrivals and departures of non-citizens visiting the United States. This article explains Form I-94 in-depth, including how it is used, how to access yours, and answers to some frequently asked questions.
Read More →September 2023 Visa Bulletin (Archive)
ImmigrationHelp News Team and Jonathan Petts
Written : 09/01/2023There were only few changes to the Visa Bulletin for the month of September. For family-based green card applicants, there was a one month decrease in wait times for spouses and children of permanent residents (F2A) across all countries. For employment-based green card applicants, there was a 3 month decrease for Mexico, the Philippines, and "all other countries" in the EB-2 category, and a 3 month decrease for China (main land born) for EB-3 green cards (skilled workers & professionals).
Read More →August 2023 Visa Bulletin (Archive)
ImmigrationHelp News Team and Jonathan Petts
Updated : 08/31/2023There were very quite a few changes to the Visa Bulletin for the month of August. For family-based green card applicants from Mexico, wait times for F1 green cards decreased by 2 years and 3 months and F2B green cards decreased by 2 years and 4 months. Regarding employment-based green cards, there were no changes in wait times for EB-2 green cards and EB-4 green cards for applicants from any country. Wait times for employment-based green card applicants from India continue to increase in several categories. - There was over a 10 year increase in wait times for EB-1 Priority Worker applicants from India. This means Indian applicants are waiting over 11 years and 5 months for a chance to get a green card. - There was almost a 3.6 year increase in wait times for EB-3 Skilled Worker applicants from India. These applicants are waiting over 14 years and 4 months to get a chance to apply for a green card.
Read More →June 2023 Visa Bulletin (Archive)
ImmigrationHelp News Team and Jonathan Petts
Written : 06/01/2023There were very few changes to the Visa Bulletin this month! Most data stayed the same from May 2023 to June 2023. For family-based green card applications, there were no changes at all in wait times compared to last month. For employment-based green card applications, there were only a couple of changes in wait times. The wait time for an EB-3 green card (for other workers) stayed the same for all countries, except for Mainland China where the wait time decreased by 4.5 months. The wait time for an EB-5 green cards for (immigrant investors-unreserved) stayed the same for all countries, except for India where the wait time increased by just over 1 year.
Read More →What Are the Benefits of Getting a Green Card?
Jonathan Petts
Updated : 08/01/2023There are several benefits of having a green card in the U.S., including: - You can apply for citizenship after five years (or three with a marriage green card) - You are protected from deportation - It’s travel easier to travel around and outside of the United States - You can sponsor family members who want a U.S. green card - You’re eligible for federal benefits like student financial aid and Social Security benefits
Read More →How To Find Help With Your Immigration Application When You Need Some Extra Help
Jonathan Petts
Updated : 12/14/2022With DACA, you can access immigration benefits like work authorization and protection from deportation. In this article, we explainresources you can turn to when you need a bit more help to prepare your DACA application.
Read More →What Does the USCIS Case Status “Case Was Received” Mean for My Employment Green Card?
ImmigrationHelp Team
Written : 12/05/2022When you see the case status “Case Was Received” from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), it means USCIS is acknowledging that it received your immigration application packet. This is just the start of USCIS processing your application. It hasn’t yet reviewed your application materials or determined your eligibility. Once you see this status, you’ll want to keep an eye on future status changes and respond to anything that requires your attention, such as a request for evidence. This article explains the “Case Received” USCIS status and what to do when your application is in this status.
Read More →What Does USCIS Case Status “Request for Additional Evidence” Mean for My Marriage Green Card Application?
Attorney Curtis Lee
Written : 11/23/2022If you log in to your USCIS account online and see the case status “Request for Additional Evidence Was Sent,” it means that USCIS needs more information from you to process your case and ensure you’re eligible for a marriage green card. USCIS will mail a Form I-797E: Notice of Action that outlines exactly what additional evidence is needed and why. The notice will also include a deadline for submitting the requested information. It’s important to submit the requested information before the deadline to ensure USCIS continues processing your application without too much delay.
Read More →What Does the USCIS Case Status “Case Rejected” Mean for My Parent Green Card Application?
Attorney Curtis Lee
Written : 10/27/2022The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) case status “Case Rejected” means that you didn’t file your immigration paperwork correctly so USCIS didn’t review your case. If USCIS rejects your case, it will also return your original filing fee. To have your case reviewed, you’ll need to fix the issue that caused the rejection. Common issues that lead to rejection include filing the incorrect form version, paying an incorrect fee amount, and not signing a form. If you see the “Case Rejected” status on your USCIS account, you’ll need to refile your case and pay your filing fee to move forward with your immigration application. If you aren’t sure how to correct the mistake after reading this article, you may want to contact an attorney for help with your case.
Read More →What Does USCIS Case Status “Case Rejected” Mean for My Employment-Based Green Card?
ImmigrationHelp Team
Written : 11/01/2022The USCIS case status “Case Rejected” means that you didn’t file your immigration paperwork correctly, so USCIS did not review your case. If USCIS rejects your case, it will return your original filing fee. To have your case reviewed, you’ll need to fix the issue that caused the rejection. Common issues that lead to rejection include filing the incorrect form version, paying an incorrect fee amount, and not signing a form. If you see the “Case Rejected” status on your USCIS account, you’ll need to refile your application and pay your filing fee to move forward with your immigration application. If you aren’t sure how to correct the mistake after reading this article, you may want to contact an attorney for help with your case.
Read More →What Does USCIS Case Status “Request for Additional Evidence” Mean for My Sibling Green Card Application?
Attorney Curtis Lee
Written : 11/09/2022If you log in to your USCIS account online and see the case status “Request for Additional Evidence Was Sent,” it means that USCIS needs more information from you to process your sibling green card case and ensure you’re eligible. USCIS will mail a Form I-797E: Notice of Action that outlines exactly what additional evidence is needed and why. The notice will also include a deadline for submitting the requested information. It’s important to submit the requested information before the deadline to ensure USCIS continues processing your application without too much delay.
Read More →What Does the USCIS Case Status “Case Rejected” Mean for My Sibling Green Card Case?
Attorney Curtis Lee
Written : 11/01/2022The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) case status “Case Rejected” means that you didn’t file your immigration paperwork correctly, so USCIS didn’t review your case. If USCIS rejects your case, it’ll also return your original filing fee. To have your case reviewed, you’ll need to fix the issue that caused the rejection. Common issues that lead to rejection include filing the incorrect form version, paying an incorrect fee amount, and not signing a form. If you see the “Case Rejected” status on your USCIS account, you’ll need to refile your application and pay your filing fee to move forward with your immigration application. If you aren’t sure how to correct the mistake after reading this article, you may want to contact an attorney for help with your case.
Read More →What Does the USCIS Case Status “Request for Additional Evidence Was Sent” Mean for My EB-5 Applicatio
If you log in to your USCIS account online and see the case status “Request for Additional Evidence Was Sent,” it means that USCIS needs more information from you to process your case and ensure you’re eligible for an EB-5 green card. USCIS will mail a Form I-797E: Notice of Action that outlines exactly what additional evidence is needed and why. The notice will also include a deadline for submitting the requested information. It’s important to submit the requested information before the deadline to ensure USCIS continues processing your application without too much delay.
Read More →What Does the USCIS Case Status “Case Transferred” Mean for My Sibling Green Card Application?
Attorney Curtis Lee
Written : 12/23/2022The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) case status “Case Was Transferred And A New Office Has Jurisdiction” means that USCIS moved your case to a different service center or field office. The new office will continue processing your case from there. USCIS may choose to transfer your sibling green card case for several reasons, including staffing shortages or processing delays. Cases may also get transferred if you move and are now in a new jurisdiction. If USCIS transfers your case, it’ll notify you via your online account and mail you a transfer notice. You don’t need to do anything, but take note that any future additional documentation for your case and any questions you have about your case will need to be directed to the new office.
Read More →What Does the USCIS Case Status “Case Transferred” Mean for My Child Green Card Application?
Attorney Curtis Lee
Written : 12/14/2022The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) case status “Case Was Transferred And A New Office Has Jurisdiction” means that USCIS moved your case to a different service center or field office. The new office will continue processing your case from there. USCIS may choose to transfer your child green card case for several reasons, including staffing shortages or processing delays. Cases may also get transferred if you move to a new jurisdiction. If USCIS transfers your case, it’ll notify you via your online account and mail you a transfer notice. You don’t need to do anything, but take note that any future additional documentation for your case and any questions you have about your case will need to be directed to the new office.
Read More →What Does the USCIS Case Status “Case Approved” Mean for My EB-5 Application?
Peter Fargo
Written : 12/30/2022If your USCIS case status says “Case Was Approved,” congratulations! This means USCIS has reviewed your application, determined your eligibility, and decided to grant your EB-5 green card. You’ll often see several statuses prior to approval as your case progresses, and it can take a long time for USCIS to process and approve your application. It takes an average of six months for USCIS to process and approve EB-5 cases. This article explains the case approval process with USCIS and what happens after your case is approved.
Read More →What Is Special Immigrant Visa Status?
Amelia Neimi
Updated : 08/08/2022Certain Afghans or Iraqis who helped the United States government are eligible to apply for special immigrant visa status. Although this process is long and complicated, if granted, it could lead to lawful permanent resident status in the United States. This article will explain how special immigrant status works, why it exists, and how to apply for it if you’re eligible.
Read More →What Does the USCIS Case Status “Case Transferred” Mean for My EB-5 Green Card Application?
Peter Fargo
Written : 12/27/2022The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) case status “Case Was Transferred And A New Office Has Jurisdiction” means that USCIS moved your case to a different service center or field office. The new office will continue processing your case from there. USCIS may choose to transfer your EB-5 green card case for several reasons, including staffing shortages or processing delays. Cases may also be transferred if you, the applicant, move and are now in a new jurisdiction. If USCIS transfers your case, it will notify you via your online account and mail you a transfer notice. You don’t need to do anything, but take note that any future additional documentation for your case and any questions you have about your case will need to be directed to the new office.
Read More →What Does the USCIS Case Status “Case Received” Mean for My Sibling Green Card Application?
Attorney Curtis Lee
Written : 11/30/2022When you see the case status “Case Was Received” from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), it means USCIS is acknowledging that it received your sibling green card application. This is just the start of USCIS processing your case. It hasn’t yet reviewed your application materials or determined your eligibility. Once you see this status, keep an eye on future status changes and respond to anything that requires your attention, such as a request for evidence. This article explains the “Case Received” USCIS status and what to do when your application is in this status.
Read More →How To Get a Copy of a Divorce Decree
Jonathan Petts
Written : 05/26/2022When you apply for a marriage green card, you'll have to prove to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) that the marriage you're basing your application on is legitimate. You'll do this in different ways, including providing legal marriage documents showing that you share true love with your spouse. If you've been previously married, you'll also have to prove that all your previous marriages have legally ended — either by death of your spouse or divorce. This article explains how to get a copy of your divorce decree and other marriage termination documents for your marriage green card application.
Read More →What Does USCIS Case Status “Case Was Denied” Mean for My Sibling Green Card Application?
Attorney Curtis Lee
Written : 12/27/2022If you see “Case Was Denied” as your USCIS case status online, it means that U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has received and reviewed your sibling green card application and decided not to grant your sibling a green card. If USCIS denies your sibling green card application case, it’ll send you a denial notice explaining why. It can be disheartening to go through months of processing for a green card only to have your case denied. If this happens, you may want to get legal advice about the next steps.
Read More →How Do I Replace a Lost Green Card?
Replacing a lost green card is straightforward, but it takes time. You’ll need to fill out Form I-90, pay a filing fee, and attend a biometrics appointment before you can replace your lost green card. Replacing a green card can take more than a year, so you should get the process started quickly.
Read More →What Does USCIS Case Status “Case Was Denied” Mean for My Child Green Card Application?
Attorney Curtis Lee
Written : 11/02/2022If you see “Case Was Denied” as your USCIS case status online, it means that U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has received and reviewed your child’s green card application and decided not to grant your child a green card. If USCIS denies your child green card case, it’ll send you a denial notice explaining why. It can be disheartening to go through months of processing for a green card only to have your case denied. If this happens, you may want to get legal advice about the next steps. If you decide to appeal your case, you’ll want to have a good immigration attorney at your side.
Read More →How To Get Advance Parole for Business Travel
Jonathan Petts
Written : 05/26/2022For many people applying for immigration benefits, Advance Parole is necessary to travel abroad while they wait for the U.S. government to process their application. Other immigrants, like recipients of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA), must also have an approved travel permit before leaving the United States if they'd like to return. Advance Parole makes it possible for immigrants with business ties abroad to leave the United States temporarily for work. In this article, we'll explain what business reasons you can get Advance Parole for as well as the step-by-step application process for getting the travel permit.
Read More →Weekly News Roundup: October 14, 2022 (Archive)
ImmigrationHelp News Team
Written : 10/14/2022The fourth quarter brings with it an array of immigration news. A few things in this week's bulletin: changes in wait times for Mexican nationals applying for family-sponsored green cards, a legal challenge to visa retrogression laws, a timeline on what to expect from DACA as litigation continues, and why Anna “Delvey” Sorokin’s house arrest matters to immigration advocates.
Read More →What Does the USCIS Case Status “Case Was Received” Mean for My Parent Green Card Application?
Attorney Curtis Lee
Written : 11/22/2022When you see the case status “Case Was Received” from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), it means USCIS is acknowledging that it received your parent green card application packet. This is just the start of USCIS processing your application. It hasn’t yet reviewed your application materials or determined your parent’s eligibility. Once you see this status, you’ll want to keep an eye on future status changes and respond to anything that requires your attention, such as a request for evidence. This article explains the “Case Received” USCIS status and what to do when your application is in this status.
Read More →What Does the USCIS Case Status “Case Was Received” Mean for My Marriage Green Card Application?
Attorney Curtis Lee
Written : 11/22/2022When you see the case status “Case Was Received” from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), it means USCIS is acknowledging that it received your immigration application packet. This is just the start of USCIS processing your application. It hasn’t yet reviewed your application materials or determined your eligibility. Once you see this status, you’ll want to keep an eye on future status changes and respond to anything that requires your attention, such as a request for evidence. This article explains the “Case Received” USCIS status and what to do when your application is in this status.
Read More →What Is the H-1B Visa?
Jonathan Petts
Updated : 11/02/2022The H-1B visa is a U.S. work visa that allows foreign nationals working in specialty occupation jobs to live and work lawfully in the United States for U.S. employers. The H-1B visa is valid for a maximum of 6 years, and H-1B visa holders are eligible to apply for employment-based green cards. This article is a guide to the H-1B visa. It explains specialty occupation and the eligibility requirements for the H-1B visa. It also explains the H-1B visa application process and what happens after applying. You will also find the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about the H-1B visa in this article.
Read More →What Does the USCIS Case Status “Case Transferred” Mean for My Parent Green Card Application?
Attorney Curtis Lee
Written : 12/30/2022The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) case status “Case Was Transferred And A New Office Has Jurisdiction” means that USCIS moved your case to a different service center or field office. The new office will continue processing your case from there. USCIS may choose to transfer your parent green card case for several reasons, including staffing shortages or processing delays. Cases may also get transferred if you move to a new jurisdiction. If USCIS transfers your case, it will notify you via your online account and mail you a transfer notice. You don’t need to do anything, but take note that any future additional documentation for your case and any questions you have about your case will need to be directed to the new office.
Read More →What Does the USCIS Case Status “Case Transferred” Mean for My Employment-Based Green Card Application?
Peter Fargo
Written : 12/27/2022The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) case status “Case Was Transferred And A New Office Has Jurisdiction” means that USCIS moved your case to a different service center or field office. The new office will continue processing your case from there. USCIS may choose to transfer your employment green card case for several reasons, including staffing shortages or processing delays. Cases may also be transferred if you, the applicant, move and are now in a new jurisdiction. If USCIS transfers your case, it will notify you via your online account and mail you a transfer notice. You don’t need to do anything, but take note that any future additional documentation for your case and any questions you have about your case will need to be directed to the new office.
Read More →What Does USCIS Case Status “Request for Additional Evidence” Mean for My Parent Green Card Application?
Attorney Curtis Lee
Written : 11/16/2022If you log in to your USCIS account online and see the case status “Request for Additional Evidence Was Sent,” it means that USCIS needs more information from you to process your case and ensure you’re eligible for a green card. USCIS will mail a Form I-797E: Notice of Action that outlines exactly what additional evidence is needed and why. The notice will also include a deadline for submitting the requested information. It’s important to submit the requested information before the deadline to ensure USCIS continues processing your application without too much delay.
Read More →Immigration Weekly News Roundup: September 30, 2022
ImmigrationHelp News Team
Updated : 10/10/2022The ever-changing immigration landscape can be difficult to navigate. As we enter the final months of 2022, there’s some good news. The Department of Homeland Security has issued a final rule that will make it easier for people with limited income to get legal permanent residency (green card). The department has also extended Temporary Protected Status for people from Myanmar. Finally, the U.S. will resume visa processing for Cubans who want to visit or migrate legally. Let’s take a closer look at recent announcements.
Read More →What Does USCIS Case Status “Case Was Approved” Mean for My Child Green Card Application?
Attorney Curtis Lee
Written : 12/11/2022If your USCIS case status says “Case Was Approved,” congratulations! This means USCIS has reviewed your application, determined your eligibility, and decided to grant your child green card. You’ll often see several statuses prior to approval as your case progresses, and it can take a long time for USCIS to process and approve your application. It takes an average of 10 to 38 months for USCIS to process and approve child green card applications. This article explains the case approval process with USCIS and what happens after your case is approved.
Read More →What Does the USCIS Case Status “Case Was Denied” Mean for My EB-5 Application?
ImmigrationHelp Team
Written : 11/16/2022If you see “Case Was Denied” as your USCIS case status online, it means that U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has received and reviewed your EB-5 application and decided not to grant you a green card. If USCIS denies your EB-5 case, it will send you a denial notice explaining why. It can be disheartening to go through months of processing for an EB-5 green card only to have your case denied. If this happens, you may want to get legal advice about the next steps. If you decide to appeal your case, you’ll want to have a good immigration attorney at your side.
Read More →What Does USCIS Case Status “Case Was Denied” Mean for My Parent Green Card Application?
Attorney Curtis Lee
Updated : 12/14/2022If you see “Case Was Denied” as your USCIS case status online, it means that U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has received and reviewed your parent’s green card application and decided not to grant your parent a green card. If USCIS denies your parent’s green card, it’ll send you a denial notice explaining why. It can be disheartening to go through months of processing for a green card only to have your case denied. If this happens, you may want to get legal advice about the next steps. If you decide to appeal your case, you’ll want to have a good immigration attorney at your side.
Read More →What Does the USCIS Case Status “Case Was Received” Mean for My EB-5 Application?
When you see the case status “Case Was Received” from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), it means USCIS is acknowledging that it received your immigration application packet. This is just the start of USCIS processing your application. It hasn’t yet reviewed your application materials or determined your eligibility. Once you see this status, you’ll want to keep an eye on future status changes and respond to anything that requires your attention, such as a request for evidence. This article explains the “Case Received” USCIS status and what to do when your application is in this status.
Read More →Removal of Conditions on Marriage Green Cards
Jonathan Petts
Written : 05/27/2022Years ago, the U.S. government instituted tighter measures to help prevent marriage fraud. Issuing conditional green cards (CR-1 visas) to newly-married couples was one of those measures. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) places conditions on your green card so they can re-assess whether your marriage is based on a bona fide relationship with your spouse. This article explains the removal of conditions process for marriage green cards and answers some frequently asked questions about the process.
Read More →Can You Apply for Advance Parole With a Criminal Record?
Jonathan Petts
Updated : 11/23/2022Getting status and other U.S. immigration benefits may be out of reach for people with criminal records. If you have ever committed a felony, for example, you can't get immigration benefits. Advance Parole is a travel permit available to special immigrants and those adjusting status to green cards. For example, if you have Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) status, you can travel abroad and return with Advance Parole. This article explains how you can qualify for Advance Parole and whether or not a criminal record can keep you from getting Advance Parole.
Read More →What Does the USCIS Case Status “Case Was Received” Mean for My Child Green Card Application?
Attorney Curtis Lee
Written : 11/22/2022When you see the case status “Case Was Received” from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), it means USCIS is acknowledging that it received your immigration application packet. This is just the start of USCIS processing your application. It hasn’t yet reviewed your application materials or determined your eligibility. Once you see this status, you’ll want to keep an eye on future status changes and respond to anything that requires your attention, such as a request for evidence. This article explains the “Case Received” USCIS status and what to do when your application is in this status.
Read More →What Does USCIS Case Status “Case Was Approved” Mean for My Sibling Green Card Application?
Attorney Curtis Lee
Written : 12/11/2022If your USCIS case status says “Case Was Approved,” congratulations! This means USCIS has reviewed your application, determined your eligibility, and decided to grant your sibling’s green card. You’ll often see several statuses prior to approval as your case progresses, and it can take a long time for USCIS to process and approve your application. It takes an average of 10 years for USCIS to process and approve sibling green card applications. However, if your sibling is from Mexico, India, or the Philippines, it can take up to 25 years. This article explains the case approval process with USCIS and what happens after your case is approved.
Read More →What Is the PERM Labor Certification Process for Foreign Workers?
Jonathan Petts
Updated : 06/23/2022PERM labor certification is one of the most important processes involved in getting an employment-based green card. Your employer will be responsible for getting this done, but it is very helpful that you know what the process involves and why it must be completed before you can get a green card. This article explains everything you need to know about the PERM labor certification process.
Read More →How To File a Family Green Card Application Non-Concurrently: A Step-by-Step Guide
ImmigrationHelp Team
Written : 11/15/2022When you file for a family green card non-concurrently, an eligible family member petitions for you with Form I-130 and you file Form I-485 at a different time. Because you are submitting the forms at different times, this process will take longer than filing concurrently — or submitting your Form I-130 and I-485 at the same time. This article outlines the 13 steps of filing for a family green card non-concurrently.
Read More →Can a DACA Recipient Get a Green Card Through Marriage?
Jonathan Petts
Updated : 11/23/2022The Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program doesn’t yet provide a pathway to lawful permanent residence. But if you’re a DACA recipient and you fall in love with and marry a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, you may be able to get a marriage green card. As a green card holder, you’ll have protection from deportation and long-term employment authorization, meaning you’ll never have to renew your work permit. Getting an immigrant visa is also the first step towards naturalization - the process of gaining U.S. citizenship. But to change your immigration status from DACA recipient to green card holder, you must satisfy certain eligibility requirements. Your green card eligibility will depend largely on how you entered the United States and if you’re married to a U.S. citizen or a permanent resident. This article explains the different ways that DACA recipients can qualify for marriage green cards and how long the process takes.
Read More →Keeping You Out of the United States: Grounds for Inadmissibility
Jonathan Petts
The U.S. has special laws that dictate who may enter or stay in the country. These laws list reasons you may be barred from entering the country as an immigrant. If you’re already in the U.S., these laws may allow you to be deported. These reasons are often referred to as “grounds for inadmissibility,” and many exist. But even if one or more grounds for inadmissibility apply to you, you can still stay or enter the U.S. in certain situations. This article provides an overview of the grounds for inadmissibility. It also discusses exceptions and waivers to inadmissibility.
Read More →What Does USCIS Case Status “Case Was Denied” Mean for My Marriage Green Card Application?
Attorney Curtis Lee
Updated : 02/07/2023If you see “Case Was Denied” as your USCIS case status online, it means that U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has received and reviewed your marriage green card application and decided not to grant your spouse a green card. If USCIS denies your marriage green card application case, it’ll send you a denial notice explaining why. It can be disheartening to go through months of processing for a green card only to have your case denied. If this happens, you may want to get legal advice about the next steps. If you decide to appeal your case, you’ll want to have a good immigration attorney at your side.
Read More →Can DACA Recipients Apply for a Green Card?
Jonathan Petts
Written : 05/26/2022Since President Obama introduced the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program in 2012, eligible undocumented youth have received protection from deportation. The Trump administration terminated the DACA program in 2017, but President Biden restored DACA at the start of his presidency. DACA recipients enjoy benefits like an employment authorization permit. But DACA status and the work permit are only temporary. They are valid for two years, after which DACA recipients have to renew their status. Plans to grant DACA recipients more long-term legal status in the United States have been on the docket for a while but have yet to pass into law. It is still possible for some DACA recipients to get green cards. This article explains the existing pathways for DACA recipients to get green cards.
Read More →What Does the USCIS Case Status “Case Rejected” Mean for My Child Green Card Application?
Attorney Curtis Lee
Updated : 12/14/2022The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) case status “Case Rejected” means that you didn’t file your immigration paperwork correctly, so USCIS didn’t review your case. If USCIS rejects your case, it’ll also return your original filing fee. To have your case reviewed, you’ll need to fix the issue that caused the rejection. Common issues that lead to rejection include filing the incorrect form version, paying an incorrect fee amount, and not signing a form. If you see the “Case Rejected” status on your USCIS account, you’ll need to refile your application and pay your filing fee to move forward with your immigration application. If you aren’t sure how to correct the mistake after reading this article, you may want to contact an attorney for help with your case.
Read More →How To Obtain Police Reports and Court Records for a Green Card Application
Jonathan Petts
Written : 11/29/2021U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) conducts a U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) conducts a background check on every immigration application. If you're applying for a green card and you have had any interactions with U.S. law enforcement, you'll have to disclose your criminal record to USCIS with your application. Generally, it's a good idea to consult with an immigration attorney if you have a criminal record before submitting your green card application. This article explains how to determine if you have a criminal record, where to get a copy of your criminal record, and the step-by-step process to request a copy from U.S. federal and state authorities.
Read More →What Does the USCIS Case Status “Case Was Denied” Mean for My Employment-Based Green Card Application?
ImmigrationHelp Team
Updated : 02/07/2023If you see “Case Was Denied” as your USCIS case status online, it means that U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has received and reviewed your employment-based green card case and decided not to grant you a green card. If USCIS denies your employment-based green card, it will send you a denial notice explaining why. It can be disheartening to go through months of processing for an employment-based green card only to have your case denied. If this happens, you may want to get legal advice about the next steps. If you decide to appeal your case, you’ll want to have a good immigration attorney at your side.
Read More →What Does the USCIS Case Status “Case Rejected” Mean for My Marriage Green Card Application?
Jonathan Petts
Written : 10/25/2022The USCIS (U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services) case status “Case Rejected” means that you didn’t file your immigration paperwork correctly, so USCIS did not review your case. If USCIS rejects your case, it will return your original filing fee. To have your case reviewed, you’ll need to fix the issue that was causing the rejection. Common issues that lead to rejection include filing the incorrect form version, paying an incorrect fee amount, and not signing a form. If you see the “Case Rejected” status on your USCIS account, you’ll need to refile your application and pay your filing fee to move forward with your marriage green card case.
Read More →January 2023 Visa Bulletin (Archive)
ImmigrationHelp News Team
Updated : 01/09/2023The application processing time for priority worker green cards for foreign nationals from mainland China and India has increased by five months and nine days. Application cut-off dates in all other family-based and employment-based green card categories did not change between the December and January Visa Bulletin. You can find current cut-off dates and backlog information in the charts below.
Read More →How To Change Your Status From a J-1 Visa to a Marriage Green Card
Jonathan Petts
Written : 05/26/2022Many Americans and lawful permanent residents are married to foreign citizens. As a student exchange visitor on a J-1 visa, it's possible to meet and fall in love with a U.S. citizen or permanent resident during your time in the United States. If you marry someone who's a U.S. citizen or green cardholder, you can get a green card. In this article, we explain what the marriage green card process is like depending on your spouse's U.S. immigration status, and whether or not you've overstayed your visa. We'll also discuss some things you should consider before filing your application, like the home residency requirement and the 90-day rule.
Read More →What Is Direct Consular Filing (DCF)?
Jonathan Petts
Updated : 04/07/2023When your green card application goes through consular processing, U.S. immigration officials at an embassy or consulate in your home country handle your application. Consular processing is the default application method for green card applicants filing from outside the United States. Direct Consular Filing (DCF) is a fast-track process for filing Form I-130, the foundation of every family-based green card application. This article is a deep dive into direct consular filing, discussing eligibility, the application process, and processing timeframes.
Read More →How Long Do Immigration Applications Take and What Should I Do if Mine Is Taking Too Long?
Jonathan Petts
Updated : 11/15/2022Many factors affect the time it takes U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to process immigration applications, including the type of benefit you’re applying for and which USCIS service center or field office is processing your forms. This article covers the factors that affect immigration application processing, how to check your case status throughout processing, and what to do if your application is taking longer than the average processing time.
Read More →A Guide to the Diversity Visa Lottery
Jonathan Petts
Written : 05/26/2022The Diversity Visa Program (DV Program) is one of the multiple ways for noncitizens to become U.S. permanent residents. The program is a free lottery that people from countries around the world can enter for a chance to apply for green cards and live and work legally in the United States. Winners of the lottery don't need to have family or employment relationships with U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents to apply for their green cards. This article discusses the history of the diversity visa lottery and explains who can apply for it as well as the application process.
Read More →How to get a marriage green card if you have a TN visa
Jonathan Petts
Written : 05/26/2022As part of the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), nationals of Canada or Mexico can work in the United States through the special TN visa classification. Many of these NAFTA professionals build connections and form relationships with Americans that could end up in marriage. The TN visa is not a "dual-intent" visa. This means changing status to a green card after marrying a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident can be tricky, but it is still possible. This article explains how to get a marriage green card if you have a TN visa and some considerations to bear in mind.
Read More →How To Get a Marriage Green Card as a Military Spouse
Jonathan Petts
Updated : 10/25/2022It’s common for active-duty military personnel to fall in love while stationed abroad. If the couple meets the requirements, the foreign spouse can get a marriage green card in three simple steps. They will apply for a green card either from the United States or abroad, attend a green card interview, and wait for a response from the U.S. government. This article explains the requirements for the military spouse green card and the application process to follow depending on where you live.
Read More →Can a U.S. Citizen's Widow(er) Get a Marriage Green Card?
Jonathan Petts
Updated : 01/26/2023If your American spouse dies suddenly while you're applying for a marriage green card, or if you're considering applying for a marriage green card after your U.S. citizen spouse's death, it is still possible to get a green card. This article explains provisions in U.S. immigration law that allow widows and widowers of U.S. citizens to become lawful permanent residents. We also explain the green card process to follow depending on if you had started the process before your citizen spouse's death and if you're filing from the United States or abroad.
Read More →What Is the Public Charge Rule?
Jonathan Petts
Written : 05/31/2022The Public Charge Rule is not a new U.S. immigration concept. From as early as 1882, U.S. Congress used the concept to deny visas to people who would become a “public charge” as immigrants. A public charge is anyone who would become dependent on the U.S. government after gaining immigrant status. In 2019, the Trump administration proposed a new Public Charge Rule, which began in 2020, and made it much tougher for immigrants to get permanent resident status. This article explains the history of the Public Charge Rule and what it means for you today.
Read More →How To Apply for a Marriage Green Card From Abroad
Jonathan Petts
Written : 05/26/2022Foreign spouses of U.S. lawful permanent residents can only apply for their marriage green card through consular processing. This means that they will have to submit their green card application through the U.S. embassy or U.S. consulate in their home country to become lawful permanent residents themselves. This article explains the step-by-step consular processing timeline for getting your green card as the spouse of a U.S. green cardholder.
Read More →May 2023 Visa Bulletin (Archive)
ImmigrationHelp News Team and Jonathan Petts
Updated : 05/31/2023There is some good news for certain family-based green card applicants this month. Wait times in the first and third preference categories from all countries except Mexico and the Philippines decreased slightly from last month. Wait times are also down by 1 month and 17 days for F4 green card applicants (for siblings of adult U.S. citizens) except for applicants from Mexico, India, and the Philippines. There were both increases and decreases for employment-based green cards compared to last month. This varies by category and country. The most significant change from last month is in the EB-3 category. Applicants in China saw a decrease in wait times of five months. However, applicants for EB-3 green cards from Mexico, the Philippines, and all other countries (except India) saw wait times *increase* by 9 months and 21 days.
Read More →How To Get an Asylum Green Card — Permanent Residence for Asylees
Jonathan Petts
Written : 05/26/2022You can apply for an asylum green card one year after the U.S. government grants your request for asylum. When you apply for an asylum green card, you can also apply for green cards for your spouse and children if they received “derivative” asylum with you. You and your family are only eligible to adjust status to asylum green cards if you have been physically present in the United States for at least one year since you received asylum status. This article explains the eligibility requirements for asylum green cards and shows you the step-by-step process to apply.
Read More →Forms I-601 & I-601A: How To Apply for a Waiver of Inadmissibility
Jonathan Petts
Written : 04/05/2022U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) may find you inadmissible for immigration based on different factors. You may have violated U.S. immigration law or simply not met the eligibility requirements for the immigration status you’re applying for. However, waivers of inadmissibility may be available to you. A waiver of inadmissibility asks the U.S. government to forgive your grounds of inadmissibility and grant you the immigration benefit you’re applying for anyway. This article introduces Forms I-601 and I-601A, which are the forms you’ll file for the waiver. It explains the requirements for each document and their respective application processes.
Read More →What Does the USCIS Case Status “Case Rejected” Mean for My EB-5 Green Card Application?
ImmigrationHelp Team
Written : 11/01/2022The USCIS case status “Case Rejected” means that you didn’t file your immigration paperwork correctly, so USCIS did not review your case. If USCIS rejects your case, it will return your original filing fee. To have your case reviewed, you’ll need to fix the issue that caused the rejection. Common issues that lead to rejection include filing the incorrect form version, paying an incorrect fee amount, and not signing a form. If you see the “Case Rejected” status on your USCIS account, you’ll need to refile your application and pay your filing fee to move forward with your immigration application. If you aren’t sure how to correct the mistake after reading this article, you may want to contact an attorney for help with your case.
Read More →What Supporting Documents Do You Need to Get a U.S. Green Card for Your Child?
Jonathan Petts
Written : 05/31/2022If you are a U.S. citizen or a permanent resident, you can sponsor your child for a Green Card. You and your child will need to submit certain documents to the U.S. Government when you apply. The application process and documents you will need are different when the child you are seeking a Green Card for is living inside of the United States and when they are living outside of the United States. This guide will serve as a document checklist for both processes.
Read More →The Ultimate Guide to the U.S. Immigration Process
Jonathan Petts
Written : 05/27/2022The United States is a very popular immigration destination because of the many benefits and privileges U.S. citizens and green card holders enjoy. If you have decided to immigrate to the U.S., you are probably wondering what the immigration process is like. There are many different kinds of U.S. immigrant visas. Still, the U.S. immigration process generally begins with an eligible sponsor filing a petition with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for the foreign national who wants to come to the United States. This is called petitioning. If all goes well with petitioning, the next step is usually that the foreign national applies for an immigrant visa at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate abroad or adjusts status to lawful permanent resident status in the United States. This article will walk you through the different U.S. immigrant visa types and provide a step-by-step guide on applying for them.
Read More →How to get a Change of Status from an F-1 Visa to a Green Card After Marriage
Jonathan Petts
Written : 05/26/2022Some international students in the United States fall in love with, and marry, U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents that they meet during their studies. You may consider adjusting your status from the nonimmigrant F-1 visa to a green card for immigrant visa status after you get married. This article explains some things to consider when adjusting your status from an F-1 visa to a marriage green card and explains the application process depending on your spouse's immigration status.
Read More →Form I-407 and Voluntary Green Card Abandonment
Jonathan Petts
Updated : 11/16/2022Many people lose their lawful permanent resident status every year. Some choose to give up their green card by voluntarily abandoning it. Others lose their green card involuntarily. This article explains what it means to abandon your green card voluntarily or involuntarily and describes the process to follow when you want to give up your green card and the consequences of giving it up.
Read More →What Is Consular Processing?
Jonathan Petts
There are two major pathways to apply for a United States green card. One method, called adjustment of status, applies when you’re already in the United States. The other method is consular processing, which refers to the process of applying for lawful permanent resident status while located in your home country. The consular process begins with filing a petition with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), which then hands it over to the National Visa Center (NVC). The NVC completes the green card application process and issues a visa allowing you to travel to the United States and get your green card.
Read More →What Does the USCIS Case Status “Case Approved” Mean for My Employment Green Card?
Peter Fargo
Written : 12/27/2022If your USCIS case status says “Case Was Approved,” congratulations! This means USCIS has reviewed your application, determined your eligibility, and decided to grant your employment-based green card. You’ll often see several statuses prior to approval as your case progresses, and it can take a long time for USCIS to process and approve your application. It takes an average of about 15 months for USCIS to process and approve employment-based Form I-140 applications. However, current USCIS processing times vary from 10 to 22 months depending on which type of employment green card you’ve applied for. This article explains the case approval process with USCIS and what happens after your case is approved.
Read More →How Can My Undocumented Immigrant Spouse Get a Green Card Through Marriage?
Jonathan Petts
Written : 05/26/2022If you are married to an undocumented immigrant, you are not alone. According to the Wall Street Journal, about 1.2 million undocumented immigrants are married to United States citizens. And that number doesn't even include undocumented immigrants married to U.S. permanent residents. Getting a marriage green card protects your spouse from deportation and, as immediate relatives, gives them a path to naturalization. But applying for a marriage green card can be a difficult process. And in most cases, it is even more challenging when your spouse is undocumented. This article will help you weigh the benefits and risks of applying for a marriage green card for your undocumented spouse.
Read More →Same-Sex Couples and Marriage Green Card Applications: Common Questions and Concerns About the Process
Jonathan Petts
Written : 05/26/2022Same-sex couples must be treated equally under U.S. immigration law thanks to the U.S. Supreme Court's ruling in the United States v. Windsor case, which struck down the Defense of Marriage Act. Even further, in 2015, the Supreme Court ruled in Obergefell v. Hodges that every state be required to issue marriage licenses to same-sex couples. Following both Supreme Court rulings, gay marriage is legal in every U.S. state. Accordingly, the United States Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) will view same-sex marriages the same as opposite-sex marriages in deciding on family green card applications. USCIS will not factor in the spouses' genders or biological sexes in making visa application decisions. Same-sex spouses of U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents are welcome to apply for marriage green cards, just like heterosexual couples. However, gay and lesbian couples do face some unique challenges in applying for a marriage green card. This article discusses these challenges and explains how to address them.
Read More →What Is an SB-1 Returning Resident Visa?
Jonathan Petts
Written : 05/31/2022As a green card holder, before you depart the United States for any trip abroad, you must make sure that your trip will not have a negative effect on your permanent resident status. If you will be abroad for less than a year, you'll only have to show your green card at a port of entry to be let back into the United States. If you'll be abroad for over one year, you must get a re-entry permit so you don't abandon your residency. If you end up staying abroad for more than two years due to circumstances beyond your control, you may apply for the SB-1 visa. This article explains the SB-1 visa, including the eligibility requirements and how to apply.
Read More →How To Notify USCIS (or the NVC) About a Change of Address
Jonathan Petts
Written : 05/26/2022According to U.S. immigration law, most non-citizens living in the United States must inform U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) when they change addresses. This does not mean that you must ask the U.S. government for permission to move houses. You just have to make sure you inform them after you move. Beyond complying with the law, this is important because USCIS will have updated address information for you when they have to mail you an important notice. This article explains how to go about notifying USCIS about a change of address and which foreigners have to do this under the law.
Read More →Green Card vs. Visa: How Are They Different?
Jonathan Petts
Updated : 11/02/2022A common misconception is that a green card and a visa are the same thing. While the two are similar, there are differences between green cards and visas. To avoid confusion, you should first understand what a visa is and what a green card is. This article explains both, then highlights the differences between green cards and visas.
Read More →How To Get a Copy of Your Marriage Certificate for Your Green Card Application
Jonathan Petts
Written : 05/26/2022Every couple must provide evidence of a valid marriage involving a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident to complete their marriage green card application. This article explains how to get a copy of your marriage certificate for your application, which alternative documents you can submit, and what to do if there’s no legal record of your marriage.
Read More →What Is Form I-129F?
Jonathan Petts
Updated : 11/23/2022One of the benefits of naturalizing as a U.S. citizen is that you can petition the U.S. government for your foreign spouse or fiancé to join you in the United States. The U.S. government requires you to file Form I-129F on behalf of your partner as part of your petition for them. This article explains what Form I-129F is, as well as its eligibility requirements, cost, and necessary supporting documents. It also describes what happens after you file and the timeline of submitting Form I-129F to getting a green card.
Read More →How to Get U.S. Citizenship if you have a Marriage Green Card
Jonathan Petts
Written : 05/26/2022Many immigrants in the United States become citizens through the naturalization process. When you have your marriage green card, you can begin to think about naturalizing as a U.S. citizen. All lawful permanent residents can apply to become U.S. citizens. As an American citizen, you'll be eligible to vote in all state and national elections, apply for federal jobs, and live abroad however long you want. You will also never be deported from the United States as a U.S. citizen. This article explains the requirements for naturalizing as a citizen if you hold a marriage green card. It also explains the naturalization process itself.
Read More →What Is Immigration Form I-360: Petition for Amerasian, Widow(er), or Special Immigrant?
Jonathan Petts
Updated : 11/02/2022Form I-360 is a very versatile immigration form. Several classes of immigrants may file this form with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) as part of their green card application process. This article introduces Form I-360, explains its purpose and who can file it, how to file it, and special considerations for VAWA petitioners to keep in mind.
Read More →What Does USCIS Case Status “Request for Additional Evidence” Mean for My Child Green Card Application?
Attorney Curtis Lee
Written : 11/09/2022If you log in to your USCIS account online and see the case status “Request for Additional Evidence Was Sent,” it means that USCIS needs more information from you to process your child’s green card case and ensure your child is eligible for a green card. USCIS will mail a Form I-797E: Notice of Action that outlines exactly what additional evidence is needed and why. The notice will also include a deadline for submitting the requested information. It’s important to submit the requested information before the deadline to ensure USCIS continues processing your application without too much delay.
Read More →How to Apply for a Change of Status From a Visitor Visa to a Marriage Green Card
Jonathan Petts
Written : 05/26/2022Every year, many foreign nationals meet and fall in love with U.S. citizens and permanent residents while in the country on a B-1/B-2 visitor visa. Many couples choose to make their home in the United States. When that happens, the foreign spouse needs to get a green card to live in the country legally. U.S. immigration law allows immigrants on tourist visas to petition for an adjustment of status from their visitor visa to a green card, but the foreign spouse must meet certain eligibility criteria to do so. In this article, we describe how a foreign spouse qualifies to apply for a marriage green card while on a visitor visa, and what the application process is like when they are changing their immigration status.
Read More →What Is the National Visa Center?
Jonathan Petts
Updated : 09/02/2022Getting a visa to live or work in the United States usually begins with submitting a petition to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). After USCIS approves the petition, it transfers it to the National Visa Center (NVC). The NVC then handles the visa application process, which includes receiving forms, collecting fees, reviewing documents, and setting up the consular interview.
Read More →How To Change Status From H-1B to Marriage Green Card
Jonathan Petts
Updated : 10/10/2022The H-1B visa is a dual intent visa. Dual intent means that although The H-1B visa is a dual intent visa. Dual intent means that although it's a temporary work visa, U.S. immigration officials won't penalize you for changing your status to a green card while you're in the United States in H-1B status. This is good news for you as the spouse of a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident - you can apply for a green card through marriage and be on the pathway to U.S. citizenship. With the green card, you can work in the United States permanently, even after your sixth year of H-1B status. This article explains the process of applying for a marriage green card depending on your spouse's U.S. immigration status.it's a temporary work visa, U.S. immigration officials won't penalize you for changing your statusto a green card while you're in the United States in H-1B status. This is good news for you as the spouse of a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident - you can apply for a green card through marriage and be on the pathway to U.S. citizenship. With the green card, you can work in the United States permanently, even after your sixth year of H-1B status. This article explains the process of applying for a marriage green card depending on your spouse's U.S. immigration status.
Read More →Everything You Need To Know About USCIS Form I-526
Paige Hooper
Written : 01/12/2023Filing Form I-526 is the first step foreign investors must take to get an EB-5 investor visa. The EB-5 visa is a unique type of employment-based visa. To qualify for an EB-5, you must first invest the required capital in a qualifying EB-5 project. You also have to submit proof of your eligibility for an EB-5 visa as part of the Form I-526 filing process. This article explains what the EB-5 program is, who is eligible to file Form I-526, and how the application process works.
Read More →How To Use the State Department’s Reciprocity Schedule
Jonathan Petts
Updated : 11/02/2022Sometimes the civil documents you have to submit to support your green card application are not issued by the authorities in your home country. To help address this, the U.S. Department of State publishes a “reciprocity schedule” that you can use to determine which substitute documents the U.S. government will accept for your application. This article explains how to use the reciprocity schedule.
Read More →What Is a Green Card and How Do I Apply for One?
Jonathan Petts
Written : 05/13/2021A U.S. green card will let you live and work lawfully in the United States as a permanent resident. Lawful permanent resident status is not the same as citizenship. Still, it comes with immigration benefits like work authorization. There are various types of green cards. This article explains what a green card is, the different types of green cards available, who can apply for them, and the green card application process step-by-step.
Read More →What Supporting Documents Do You Need for a U.S. Marriage Green Card?
Jonathan Petts
Updated : 05/27/2022U.S. citizens and permanent residents can sponsor their spouse for a marriage green card. They and their spouse will need to submit certain documents to the U.S. government when they apply. The application process and documents you will need are different when the spouse seeking a green card is living inside of the United States (adjustment of status) and when they are living outside of the United States (consular processing). This guide will serve as a document checklist for both processes.
Read More →What Is Form G-1145: E-Notification of Application/Petition Acceptance?
Jonathan Petts
Updated : 11/23/2022Mailing your completed application packet to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) is an exciting time. You have finally finished gathering your documents and filing fees for the immigration benefit you applied for, and now it's up to USCIS to process your application. There are multiple ways to keep up with USCIS' processing of your application. In addition to tracking your case status online with the USCIS website, you can sign up to receive email and text notifications about updates to your application using Form G-1145. This article explains what Form G-1145 is, and whether you should consider filing the form.
Read More →Can I File Form I-485 While in Removal Proceedings?
Jonathan Petts
Updated : 08/16/2022If you are eligible, you can file Form I-485, Adjustment of Status Application, even if you are in removal proceedings and the U.S. government is trying to deport you. This process might seem unusual, but in some situations, you may be eligible to adjust your immigration status with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Read on to learn when, why, and how you might file Form I-485 during a removal proceeding.
Read More →10 Reasons for Your Green Card Application Denial
Jonathan Petts
Written : 05/26/2022There are a lot of moving parts to the green card application process, and it's important to pay careful attention when you’re putting your application together. Sometimes, making mistakes on your application can cause the U.S. government to deny it. Other times, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will deny your visa application because you are inadmissible for one reason or the other. In this article, we're highlighting 10 of the most common reasons why the U.S. government would deny your green card application.
Read More →K1 Fiancé Visas vs. Marriage Green Cards: What Are the Differences?
Jonathan Petts
Written : 11/19/2020U.S. citizens who would like to marry their foreign fiance have two options to bring their partner to the United States: a marriage green card (spouse visa) through Consular Processing or a K-1 fiance visa. U.S. green card holders may not apply for a K-1 Visa. The main differences between a K-1 fiance visa and a marriage green card are their timing, location, and cost. The K-1 visa is often the quicker option for international couples. It takes 9-15 months and costs $800. With this visa, the couple can begin life in the U.S. immediately after their wedding. They will still have to apply for a marriage green card for the foreign spouse to stay in the U.S. The process of adjusting status from a K-1 fiance visa to a marriage green card takes 4-6 months and costs $1225. Consular marriage green cards (spouse visas) are issued after the couple is married outside of the U.S. The consular marriage green card application process takes 11-32 months and costs $1,210. The foreign spouse cannot move to the U.S. until the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) approves their green card application. Choosing between a K-1 fiance visa and a spouse visa can be tricky, but this article is here to help!
Read More →How To Write an Advance Parole Cover Letter
Paige Hooper
Written : 02/20/2023Depending on your immigration status, you may need to apply for advance parole before traveling outside the United States. The advance parole application is relatively straightforward, but you’ll need to provide official forms as well as evidence when you submit it to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). To help keep your application organized, you can add a cover letter to your advance parole application packet. In this guide, you’ll learn more about how the cover letter fits in with the rest of the application documents and the best way to write a cover letter for your advance parole application.
Read More →