When it comes to things to say or not say during an immigration interview, there are definitely a few things to keep in mind.    First, do not lie. USCIS officers have access to numerous sources of information, particularly when it comes to the foreign spouse’s immigration history. It is best to lead with the…

    The Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) provides essential protection for individuals facing problems in their marriage. It allows eligible spouses of U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents to self-petition for legal status in the United States. One common concern among applicants is the potential impact their VAWA case may have on their spouse,…

We are thrilled to celebrate the recent green card approval for one of the firm’s clients.  The application was approved in only 4 months from the date of submission! Satisfied with the documents submitted, USCIS chose to waive the adjustment of status interview and approve the green card.  Of note, the average processing time for…

  The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) recently announced a significant initiative aimed at fostering family unity within the immigration system.     Currently, noncitizens who have entered the U.S. illegally and are married to U.S. citizens can apply for lawful permanent residence. In order to complete their process and receive a green card, they must…

By Pratibha Agarwal, Managing Attorney   We’re here; half the year has passed. I am using it as an opportunity to reflect on the firm’s successes, the people we have touched, and the lives we have changed. I am focusing on the small part we have in making the world a place full of opportunity…

    Applying for relief under the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) can be challenging, especially if you feel you lack sufficient evidence to support your case. However, it’s important to know that VAWA protections cover various forms of abuse, and there are multiple ways to substantiate your claims, even if concrete evidence seems limited.…

Effective May 22, 2024, USCIS has updated its guidance in the USCIS Policy Manual regarding family-based immigrant visa petitions. This update affects Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, and in limited situations, family-based Form I-360, Petition for Amerasian, Widow(er), or Special Immigrant. The revisions include new procedures for correcting approval notice errors, processing requests for…

  The family-based green card process starts by filing Form I-130.  U.S. citizens and green card holders can sponsor their family members.  U.S. citizens may sponsor parents, siblings, married and unmarried children, and their spouse.  Green card holders can sponsor their spouse and unmarried children.   You may be able to file your form I-485 (adjustment…

    It’s a common misconception that only women qualify for protection under the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA). However, VAWA is gender-neutral and extends its safeguards to individuals of all genders who have suffered abuse at the hands of a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident spouse or parent.  Some of our clients also…

  It is with mixed emotions that we announce our Paralegal, Michelle, will be leaving our firm, with her last day being May 31st, 2024. She has been an essential part of our team for three years, joining us right after graduating from the University of Michigan. As she prepares to pursue her law degree,…