It can take years, even decades, for some qualified individuals to receive permission to enter the United States. There may be delays or denials, and some applicants may find the application process to be cumbersome and difficult. However, recent data from the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services indicates that more foreign-born workers are getting the approval they need and deserve.
This is good news for visa applicants looking to work in fields related to math, engineering, science and technology. One reason for the increase in these positive rulings is a recent change to guidelines that affect the approval process. Immigration advocates have found these to be positive changes that brought discernible improvement.
Seeking a visa for employment purposes is not a simple endeavor. It can be difficult to determine how to move forward and what steps are necessary to complete the application process. It is often helpful to have the assistance and support of a Louisiana immigration attorney who can provide insight at every step of the process.
]]>If ICE officers take you into custody, it is always best to try to remain calm and to cooperate with immigration officials. Like anyone else residing in this country, you have a right to seek legal counsel as you navigate the detention management system. Being in detention does not necessarily mean you will face removal. If you are not subject to mandatory detention and are not a flight or public safety risk, officials may decide to release you as you await due process of your case.
Being in ICE custody, especially if you’re separated from your family, can be stressful and frightening. Detention facilities must always comply with federal regulations and protocol that govern immigration detention. Immigration officials must provide a safe environment, as well as food and access to medical care as needed.
ICE officials make determinations on a case-by-case basis. In many cases, if you are a custodial parent of a minor or have a serious health condition, they may decide to release you under certain conditions.
The term “punitive” refers to an intent to inflict punishment. When ICE officials take you into custody, the detention is non-punitive. This means that you are not legally receiving punishment. If you were to be accused of a crime, criminal charges would be filed against you, and your case would be processed through the U.S. criminal justice system, which is entirely separate from ICE facilities.
There are numerous reasons that might compel you to reach out for support while held in an ICE detention facility. If concerns have arisen due to inadequate health care, dirty living conditions, unfair treatment or abuse, you may seek assistance to resolve the matter through the legal system.
In most cases, the purpose of immigration detention is to secure the presence of a noncitizen for removal or for asylum or other immigration proceedings. If you’re taken into ICE custody in Louisiana, you must receive an opportunity to contact your family and to request a meeting with legal counsel.
]]>One of the downsides when comparing permanent residence to citizenship is that one can still be deported, even as a permanent resident, if convicted of certain crimes. U.S. citizens have the option of living anywhere in the world, while those with permanent residence must reside in the United States. Long, and in some cases, even brief travel outside of the United States can lead to a revocation of one’s permanent residence status.
Another benefit of citizenship over permanent residence is the ability to vote in elections, allowing one to take part in choosing elected officials. Many people come to the United States to work and establish themselves in hopes of helping other family members immigrate. Once citizenship is established, one may help any immediate relatives find a path for immigration. Those with permanent residence may only help spouses and unmarried children.
Establishing permanent residence or going through the citizenship process is often better done with someone by one’s side who understands the laws. Those wishing to establish themselves permanently in Louisiana or any other state may wish to consult an attorney to understand the process. An immigration attorney can help one choose the right path based on their wants and needs.
]]>Those who are approaching the naturalization test will benefit from looking ahead to prepare for what is ahead. This can be a difficult test to pass, and it assesses the applicant's comprehension and grasp of English, as well as comprehension of United States civics and government. One hundred different questions could be asked, and they are split into 10 different categories.
Each test taker will answer one question from each category, and he or she must answer six of them correctly to pass. If the individual does not pass the first time, he or she may attempt to take the test up to two more times. The date of the retest will depend on the initial interview.
For immigration matters ranging from visas to naturalization, it is beneficial to have an experienced legal ally at every step. As each case is unique, it is important to seek an individual assessment of one’s need to discern the legal options available. Immigration law is complex, and having the assistance of an attorney can be critical to one’s success.
]]>It’s a big mistake to attempt the U.S. citizenship test without thorough study and preparation. In fact, taking the exam can be a daunting experience. There are several things to keep in mind that can help achieve the best results.
The U.S. citizenship test includes a written portion and an interview. During the interview, an immigration official asks questions about personal background, as well as the individual‘s application. The applicant must also demonstrate an ability to speak English. The written portion of the test is divided into two main categories, an English test and a civics test. Ability to read and write in English is essential, as is demonstrating knowledge of basic facts about U.S. history and government.
The good news is that the immigration system allows a second attempt if a person fails the initial U.S. citizenship test. It is helpful for those in Louisiana who are considering taking the test to speak with an attorney to gain a better understanding of the system and any immigration laws that may apply. An attorney can also help resolve any legal issues that arise on the path to citizenship.
]]>The Stokes interview takes its name from a case once heard in a federal district court where an immigration officer had questioned the validity of a couple’s marriage. If the court calls you to a Stokes interview, the U.S. government suspects that your marriage is fraudulent and that you only married so that either you or your spouse could obtain a green card. You must be ready to convince immigration officials that your marriage is authentic.
While you and your partner will attend the Stokes interview at the same time, immigration officials will take you to separate areas during questioning. The purpose of this is so they can compare the answers you each provide to check if they corroborate. You’ll want to be prepared to answer highly personal questions, some of which may refer to obscure issues, such as what color your bathroom paint is.
The interviewer might ask you things like where you and your spouse met or went on your first date. He or she might ask you what your spouse’s favorite food is or what time he or she typically goes to bed at night. If you do not know an answer to a question, it’s always best to admit so rather than make something up to try to deceive the interviewer.
Anything you can bring to convince immigration officials that your marriage is legitimate is helpful. Such things include immigration paperwork, photographs that demonstrate the timeline of your relationship with your spouse, birthday cards, personal notes or letters, bills addressed in both your names and more.
If the interviewer suspects that you or your spouse are lying, or your answers do not coincide (such as one of you saying that your bedroom has green walls while the other says gray), he or she may flag your case for further investigation. Because such situations are emotionally distressing and may be legally complicated, it is always wise to seek experienced guidance and support before attending a Stokes interview.
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