En Español
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.
To answer "What do Immigration Lawyers do?" briefly: An immigration lawyer is a legal professional who can guide you throughout your immigration journey. They possess a deep understanding of U.S. immigration laws, policies, and procedures. They can also offer assistance with a wide range of immigration matters. Whether you're an...
Read More
You probably need a lawyer to get a Green Card. Obtaining lawful permanent residency in the United States is a significant milestone for many immigrants. The process can be complex and time-consuming, often involving a maze of forms, documentation, and potential challenges. This begs the question: Do you really need...
Read More
Your lawyer can explain who the principal applicant and derivative applicants are in an immigration case. Understanding these roles is key to managing your application effectively in the immigration process. The principal applicant is the main individual applying for an immigration benefit, such as a green card or visa. This...
Read More
"How long will it take me to become a U.S. citizen?" is one of the questions we get the most. The journey to becoming a U.S. citizen is a significant milestone, but it also requires careful preparation and patience. On average, the timeline for naturalization can range from 18 to...
Read More
You may wonder if a naturalized citizen can get deported, particularly if you have any pending business with the immigration authorities. Becoming a naturalized U.S. citizen is a significant milestone for many immigrants, marking a strong connection to the United States. However, a common question arises: Can a naturalized citizen...
Read More
At your naturalization interview, you can expect different types of questions. You will meet with an immigration officer who will carefully review your citizenship application, including your background, immigration history, and eligibility for U.S. citizenship. This is also the time when you'll take the civics test and demonstrate your English...
Read More