At J. Sparks Law, PLLC, we are dedicated to keeping you informed about the latest developments in immigration law. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has recently announced important changes to promote family unity. Below, we have provided a factsheet from the USCIS summarizing these changes and the new process for parole in place for certain noncitizen spouses of U.S. citizens. For a concise overview of these updates, please view a summary of the below factsheet here. On June 18, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced actions to promote family unity in the immigration proc ..read more

The President of the United States recently signed an executive order aimed at restricting asylum claims for migrants, particularly those crossing illegally. However, the order’s focus on restricting asylum claims has sparked controversy. Immigration rights advocates argue that the order violates long-standing humanitarian protections for vulnerable populations fleeing violence and persecution in their home countries. It could leave asylum seekers facing a more difficult road to claiming asylum and dangerous situations in Mexico while they wait for their cases to be processed. The Biden admini ..read more

“Parole in place,” a legal benefit currently available to certain family members of those in the military, has been expanded to hundreds of thousands of other individuals in the U.S. by President Biden. Certain spouses of U.S. citizens will have new legal options now. How Does Parole in Place Work? Parole in place is often life changing for those awarded this immigration benefit. First, once parole in place is approved, an individual can apply for work authorization and request a work permit and social security card. Second, the individual may then become eligible for adjustment of status to l ..read more

While visas and green cards both serve as documentation for foreigners in the US, there are distinct differences between the two. They serve different purposes, and the application process varies for both. Which is right for you? Discuss this with an Austin immigration attorney today. Defining the Key Concepts: Visa vs. Green Card A visa is a temporary document that allows non-U.S. citizens to enter the United States for a specific purpose, such as tourism, education, or work. On the other hand, a green card, officially known as a Permanent Resident Card, grants lawful permanent residency to f ..read more

Are you an investor looking to expand your business ventures to the United States? Or an entrepreneur seeking new opportunities? Whatever your motivations may be, never hesitate to discuss a possible investor visa with an Austin visa attorney.   Exploring the Investor Visa An Investor Visa, also known as an EB-5 Visa, is a pathway for foreign nationals to obtain legal residency in the United States by making a substantial investment in a qualifying business venture. This visa category is designed to stimulate economic growth, create jobs, and attract foreign capital to the country. By inv ..read more

Understanding your immigration status is crucial to ensure that you are on track with your application and to address any issues that may arise. If you need assistance with your immigration process, J. Sparks Law, PLLC is here to help. Contact our experienced Austin immigration attorneys for personalized guidance tailored to your unique situation. Official Resources for Checking Immigration Status The first step in checking your immigration status is to utilize official resources. The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) provides online tools that allow individuals to tra ..read more

The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) doesn’t require you to have a lawyer when applying for a Green Card through marriage. You can obtain a conditional green card without legal representation if you have no criminal record and entered a marriage without intending to circumvent or defraud the immigration system.   If you’re processing your green card in an overseas consulate, a lawyer cannot attend the immigration interview. However, they can assist you in preparing the paperwork and communicating with the consulate on your behalf.   While it is not a require ..read more

Application Support Centers (ASCs) provide a platform for collecting biometric data after an applicant submits the relevant forms. The ASCs do not accept direct application filings.   Visa applicants can submit their biometrics for immigration benefits after booking an appointment. Usually, applicants receive notification of ASC appointment through their registered mail and should always wait until they receive the notice.   How Appointments at ASCs Work As U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) processes your application, they may schedule an appointment at ASCs. If you r ..read more

A spousal visa or CRI spousal visa is a green card that allows someone from another country to live in the United States with their spouse. The spouse should be married to a U.S. citizen or someone with permanent residency status.   You can obtain a CR-1 visa (conditional resident) if you’ve been married for less than two years. Alternatively, you can get an immediate relative (IR visa) if you’ve been married for over two years.    The visa is granted on a conditional basis, which means the U.S. citizen and the beneficiary can apply for the removal of the conditions after two ye ..read more

You can sponsor your parents to receive green cards if you are a U.S. citizen and at least 21 years old. However, applying for a green card for your parents can be a complicated process with various requirements. Having the guidance of an experienced Austin immigration attorney can make all the difference in navigating through the application process.  At J. Sparks Law, PLLC, we understand the importance of family reunification and are here to provide you with the legal support and guidance you need.   Understanding the Process Applying for a green card for your parents involves seve ..read more