The U.S. work visa system aims to attract and prioritize individuals who can contribute significantly to the country’s economy, help address labor shortages or bring exceptional skills and talent into the U.S. workforce. With various categories dictating the approval process, it is essential to understand where you might fit in. Applicants with extraordinary ability Individuals who have demonstrated extraordinary ability in their field of expertise, whether in the sciences, arts, education, business or athletics, are among those prioritized in the visa application process. If you fall under th ..read more

Going through a divorce can be stressful enough without worrying about your immigration status. Fortunately, for most green card holders, divorce is not grounds for losing your permanent residency status. However, the timing of your divorce and the type of green card you have can affect the process. What are the types of green cards? U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) issues green cards to individuals as proof of lawful permanent resident status in the United States. There are several ways to apply for a green card: Employment: For workers with special skills, education or inves ..read more

The United States offers a path to citizenship for immigrants who meet specific requirements. However, this process can be complex, and individuals may face additional hurdles.   While the core requirements for naturalization remain the same, there are some challenges individuals applying for naturalization should be aware of.  Failing to meet eligibility requirements  Before anything else, you must ensure you are eligible for naturalization. You should be at least 18 years old, a lawful permanent resident (green card holder) for at least five years (or three years if you are ma ..read more

As an international student, getting the opportunity to study in the United States is a path fraught with many challenges. After getting accepted to your dream university, which is no simple feat, you must clear one more crucial hurdle: obtaining your student visa. Getting your student visa application rejected is not a rarity. Thus, understanding why these denials happen can be your first step in securing your dream of studying in the U.S. Incomplete documentation One of the most common reasons for a visa denial is having incomplete documentation during the application process. To avoid this ..read more

If you are facing persecution or fearing persecution in your home country, you can seek safety in the United States. However, it is crucial to carefully follow the asylum process, from completing the application to providing evidence that can support your case. The application process can be difficult and complex to manage, considering your situation. Nevertheless, taking the right steps is essential to ensure a new, safe start. What to expect when applying for asylum in the U.S. To request asylum, you must be in the United States or at the border. Completing and submitting Form I-589 to USCIS ..read more

For individuals eyeing opportunities in the United States, understanding the nuances of work authorization is a necessary step. The terms work permit and work visa are often used interchangeably, but they bear distinct meanings. Work permit: Gateway to limited employment A work permit, officially known as an Employment Authorization Document, grants permission to work within the U.S. for a specific duration. This document is typically sought by certain non-immigrant visa holders, asylum seekers and dependents of certain visa categories. It serves as a lifeline for those navigating the transiti ..read more

According to the Vera Institute of Justice, nearly 800,000 immigrants call Atlanta home. Deportation is a serious and life-changing consequence that many individuals may face due to various reasons. Understanding these common grounds for deportation is important for immigrants. 1. Criminal convictions One of the primary reasons for deportation in Atlanta is criminal convictions. If a jury convicts an immigrant of certain crimes, including but not limited to felonies, drug offenses or crimes of moral turpitude, they may face deportation proceedings. The severity of the crime and the resulting s ..read more

Under U.S. immigration laws, noncitizens with lawful status can face removal or deportation for a number of reasons. Immigrants facing the possibility of removal have the right to seek ways of securing their place in the country. One avenue that might provide a ray of hope is exploring the impact of marital status on the possibility of obtaining a cancellation of removal. Understanding cancellation of removal Cancellation of removal is a legal remedy that allows certain residents to avoid deportation. To be eligible, you must meet specific criteria outlined by immigration laws: You have an imm ..read more

Embarking on the journey to secure a work visa in the United States can be a daunting task, especially if you have a criminal record in your home country. The U.S. immigration system has stringent policies, and understanding the implications of a past criminal history is important for prospective visa applicants. The importance of a clean slate When it comes to obtaining a U.S. work visa, a clean slate is often seen as an advantage. Immigration authorities carefully scrutinize applicants to ensure they meet the standards set forth for entry into the country. A criminal record can raise red fla ..read more

In the vast landscape of U.S. immigration, employment-based visas play a significant role in attracting skilled workers from around the world. These visas serve as gateways for individuals seeking opportunities on American soil, but each has its nuances. 1. H-1B visa The H-1B visa is for foreign workers in specialty occupations, requiring specialized knowledge and a bachelor’s degree or higher. Commonly used by tech professionals, engineers and scientists, this visa allows employers to hire skilled workers for up to six years. 2. L-1 visa For multinational companies looking to transfer employe ..read more