Undocumented children in the United States face a plethora of challenges, including but not limited to the risk of abuse, neglect, or abandonment. As a vulnerable group, these children require protection, which is where the Special Immigrant Juvenile Status comes into play. Enshrined in California law, SIJS provides a viable pathway for undocumented children who have undergone mistreatment to obtain legal status in the country. Who qualifies for SIJS? According to California law, to qualify for Special Immigrant Juvenile Status, a youth must meet the following criteria: Under 21 years old Unma ..read more

Applying for a US immigration visa is an important move for those looking to live permanently in the United States. The process involves several stages, and it is important for anyone seeking entry into the United States to understand the necessary steps. Identify the right visa category The first step is to identify which immigrant visa category fits your situation. The United States offers various paths for immigration, including family-based visas, employment-based visas, special immigrant visas and diversity lottery visas. Gather necessary documents While the documents required can vary by ..read more

In the United States, facing the threat of someone calling Immigration and Customs Enforcement can be a daunting experience, especially for immigrants. This threat can lead to uncertainty, fear and anxiety about potential consequences, including deportation or separation from loved ones. Being proactive and understanding your rights will help you navigate this challenging situation. Stay calm When confronted with a threat to call ICE, it is important to remain calm. Take the time necessary to assess the seriousness and the intentions of the person making it. Try not to overreact, but carefully ..read more

Obtaining a green card, or lawful permanent residency, is a significant milestone for individuals seeking to live and work in the United States. However, not everyone is eligible for a green card. There are specific criteria and eligibility requirements that applicants must meet. To begin, individuals must fit into one eligibility category. Family-based sponsorship Family sponsorship is one of the most common ways for people to obtain United States residency. Lawful permanent residents and U.S. citizens can sponsor certain family members for a green card, including spouses, parents, children a ..read more

The public charge rule is a policy that applies to individuals seeking to enter the United States or get a green card. It assesses whether they are likely to become dependent on some government assistance programs. This rule can significantly affect immigration applications. This impact is strongest for those seeking lawful permanent resident status, also called a green card. Considered public benefits The rule considers specific public benefits when assessing an application to determine whether an individual will become a public charge. These benefits include cash assistance and Supplemental ..read more

The H-1B visa is a popular work visa for foreign nationals seeking employment in the United States. To qualify for an H-1B visa, applicants must demonstrate their intent to work in a “specialty occupation.” For those considering immigration through the H-1B route, the biggest question is likely to be which jobs count as a specialty occupation. Defining specialty occupation A specialty occupation is one that requires specialized knowledge and a bachelor’s degree or higher in a specific field. The occupation must entail that the expertise gained through a degree is essential for performing the j ..read more

Deportation is the process of removing individuals from a country. There are numerous reasons why a person may face deportation, and some reasons are not as widely known. By understanding the factors that lead to deportation, you can hopefully take the proper steps to remain in good standing. Criminal activities One primary cause for deportation is involvement in criminal activities. Non-citizens convicted of crimes such as drug offenses, assaults or theft may face deportation. Remember that the U.S. has pertinent laws to maintain public safety and protect all residents. Visa violations Failur ..read more

Navigating the path to naturalization is a significant journey for immigrants seeking to become U.S. citizens. Statista reports that 969,380 immigrants became U.S. citizens in 2022. However, many factors impact eligibility for citizenship. One factor is the presence of misdemeanors in one’s record. Character consideration One important element of the naturalization process is demonstrating good moral character. Immigration officials assess an applicant’s background, including any misdemeanors. While a single misdemeanor may not disqualify an applicant, habitual or severe misdemeanors can raise ..read more

According to Statista, more than 900,000 immigrants became naturalized citizens of the United States in 2022. Various factors that shape the legal and social landscape influence citizenship. These factors play a pivotal role in determining who can claim the privileges of citizenship. 1. Birthright Citizenship often stems from the principle of jus soli, which translates to “right of the soil.” In countries that follow this principle, individuals born within their borders are automatically considered citizens, regardless of their parents’ nationality. Birthright citizenship establishes a direct ..read more

When it comes to citizenship and naturalization in California, it’s crucial to understand the process clearly. Whether you’re a permanent resident aspiring to become a U.S. citizen or someone navigating the complexities of immigration, knowing the essentials can make a significant difference. Citizenship eligibility Applying for U.S. citizenship requires the following eligibility criteria: Be at least 18 years old Have authorization to live and work in the United States for at least five years if not married to a U.S. citizen Able to read, write and speak basic English Possess good moral chara ..read more