Top Ten Immigration Suggestions


Created by FindLaw's legal writing and editing team | Last updated January 19, 2018

Follow these immigration tips to ensure that you have full residency or citizenship rights in the United States.

Tip#1

1. Be prepared for application and renewal process delays. The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is perpetually behind schedule. It can take up to three years to process some applications. If your green card or immigration visa has expired, immigration authorities have the authority to arrest and deport you, even if you have applied for renewal and are simply awaiting your renewed green card or immigration visa.

Tip#2

2. Consider obtaining citizenship in the United States. If you already have a green card and plan to stay in the United States, apply for citizenship as soon as the laws allow. Most people can apply for citizenship five years after receiving their green card, or three years if they have a citizen-spouse or obtained their green card through marriage. Citizenship protects you from certain grounds for deportation that you would face if you only had a green card. Having citizenship also increases the likelihood of your close relatives obtaining legal status in the United States. Visit the USCIS website for more information.

Tip#3

3. Avoid removing the summary. The power of border officials to turn you away from entering the United States is referred to as summary removal. You can avoid this by preparing to persuade border officials that you are deserving of an immigration visa. They have the authority to refuse you entry if they believe you pose a security risk or have lied in order to obtain an immigration visa. If you are only visiting the United States as a tourist, avoid bringing anything that suggests you intend to stay, such as a wedding gown or a resume. 

Tip#4

4. Inform USCIS of any address changes. Any address changes must be reported to USCIS by all immigrants who stay for more than thirty days. This notification must be given within ten days of your address change. Each member of your family, including children, must receive a separate notification. Print, complete, and mail Form AR-11, or use USCIS's online change of address service. If you have any pending applications, send written notice of your new address to each and every USCIS office that is handling your case.

Tip#5

5. Submit multiple immigration visa applications. Check to see if more than one of your family members is eligible to petition for you if you are applying for a green card or an immigration visa through the petition of a family member.

Tip#6

6. Arrive on time for all USCIS appointments. Never be late for an appointment with a US consulate or embassy, an immigration court, or the USCIS. Lateness can result in deportation or delays in your processing or proceedings. You want to avoid delays at all costs because status applications are so time sensitive. One of the most important immigration tips is to arrive on time.

Tip#7

7. Do not break any immigration visa rules or laws. This is probably the most important immigration tip, because the consequences can be disastrous. Learn all of the requirements for your immigration visa, work permit, or green card, and strictly adhere to all laws and provisions. Even minor infractions can result in deportation, cancellation of your immigration visa, or even permanent exclusion from the United States. See U.S. Immigration Basics or the USCIS website for more information on the laws governing various immigration visas and green cards.

Tip#8

8. Maintain copies and stay up to date on the status of your application. The USCIS is notorious for routinely misplacing paperwork. Send all applications and paperwork to USCIS via certified mail with a return receipt. Make a copy.

Tip#9

9. Conduct research from trustworthy sources. There are many common myths, rumours, and beliefs about immigration that can be misleading or outright incorrect, so be cautious about who you seek advice from. Your legal situation is unique and may differ significantly from that of your friends or family members. Even USCIS employees can provide incorrect and misleading immigration advice and information.

Even if you make a mistake based on information provided by a USCIS employee, you will be held accountable and will bear the consequences. Conduct your own research. The information on the USCIS website is all correct and reliable. Consult an immigration lawyer if necessary.

Tip#10

10. Seek assistance from legislators. If you are experiencing difficulties, please contact your U.S. congressperson. They are usually happy to make inquiries on your behalf and can even encourage the appropriate agency to take action or start the application process for you.

Do you have any additional questions about immigration law? Speak with a Local Attorney

Each immigration case is distinct and one-of-a-kind. To know how to proceed, you'll need a thorough understanding of the law and how it applies to your specific situation. Contact a local immigration law attorney to discuss your specific situation and learn how they may be able to assist you in obtaining the immigration benefits you require.

Comments

Popular posts from this blog

How To Manage Hair During Traveling or Going To Different Place For Immigration

Top Ten Movement Tips

Arab Emirates: relocation guide