Immigration FAQs

If you or a family member faces immigration concerns, has questions about their options, or faces removal proceedings, you likely have many questions and concerns. 

Immigration matters are often complex and require legal advice from a lawyer familiar with the situation. While the immigration FAQs presented here provide a brief overview of some of the most common questions, you may want to consider scheduling a strategy session with an immigration lawyer to learn more.

What Should I Do If My Family Member Is Detained Or in Removal Proceedings?

If your family member has been detained or is in removal proceedings, you should speak with an attorney as soon as possible. There may be options, including:

• Bond, which allows them to come home pending the proceedings
• Cancellation of removal, which offers a path to a Green Card
• Winning their case
• Other options based on the circumstances

Even if you get a bond or were released based on personal recognizance, you must attend each hearing and follow the court’s orders. Failing to do so could cost you and your family stiff fines, and the immigration judge will likely issue an order of deportation.

How do I Get a Green Card?

A Green Card is another name for a lawful permanent resident card. You must file a petition to obtain this card and the legal status to live and work in the United States that comes with it. There are two types: 

• An immigrant petition grants permanent residency
• A non-immigrant petition offers temporary approval for a job or another reason

You can qualify for a Green Card in several ways, including through a family member or employer. An attorney can help with this process if you meet the requirements. 

It is essential to know that marrying a U.S. citizen does not mean you will automatically get a Green Card. This is a myth. You will still need to file a petition and complete the process, which could take months or even years. 

How Can a Lawful Permanent Resident Become a Citizen?

A lawful permanent resident can apply for U.S. citizenship if they meet all requirements and have lived in the U.S. for at least:

• Five years consecutively
• Three years, if they are married to a U.S. citizen

Becoming a citizen requires an application, biometrics, an interview, testing, and taking an oath. Working with an immigration attorney can ensure you meet all the necessary criteria, understand the steps, and follow the proper process. 

What If the Government Denied My Case?

If you received a Notice of Intent to Deny (NOID) or another indication that United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) plans to deny your application or petition, you still have options. You will want to connect with an immigration attorney immediately. You can challenge USCIS’ decision, but you may have little time to do so. 

According to USCIS, you may only have 30 days to:

• File a motion to reconsider 
• File a motion to reopen the case
• Appeal an immigration judge’s decision

Immigration law firms can sometimes successfully resolve denials through additional motions or legal action. This will depend largely on your case’s facts. However, speaking with an attorney as soon as possible is your best option to learn if there may be a path to relief even after a denial.

How Can an Immigration Attorney Help Me and My Family?

An immigration lawyer understands the processes and options available to those facing immigration concerns or issues. They can often help resolve problems and find relief even if their client is in removal proceedings, is detained, or will be deported soon. They know how important it is for you to remain in your home and with your family, so they want to help. 

You can expect your relationship with the attorney to begin with a strategic session where you will discuss your situation and the options for helping you improve your circumstances. Some of the immigration concerns and petitions an attorney can handle include: 

• Family petitions
• Military Parole in Place (PIP)
• Immigration appeals
• Bond
• Waivers for entering without proper documentation
• Removal defense
• Motions to reconsider or reopen
• U-Visas
• K-1 Visas
• Naturalization
• Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) application and renewal

Discuss Your Options with an Attorney from New Frontier Immigration Law Today

At New Frontier Immigration Law, our team is dedicated to helping immigrants and their families live their best lives. We want to ensure they can remain together in their homes in the United States. We may be able to help you fight any issues concerning your legal status and get you approved to live and work in the United States.

These immigration FAQs are a good place to start for information, but we are ready to help you in real-time. Call 623-552-5025 for your initial strategic session with our team today.