Los Angeles Green Card & Visa Lawyer

A green card, also known in the United States as a Permanent Resident Card, is a document issued by the United States government that allows approved foreign nationals to live and work in the country permanently. Working with a Los Angeles green card & visa lawyer is vital to understanding your rights and legal obligations.

Obtaining a green card typically requires sponsorship by a family member or employer. Conversely, a visa allows a foreign national to temporarily enter the U.S. for a specific purpose, such as tourism, study, or work. Visas are typically issued by U.S. embassies and consulates abroad. They come in various types, such as nonimmigrant visas for temporary stays and immigrant visas for permanent residence. While a green card grants you the right to live and work in the U.S. permanently, a visa is only valid for a limited period, and you must leave the U.S. before it expires.

U.S. Law Center: Your Los Angeles Green Card and Visa Attorneys

U.S. Law Center, a Los Angeles-based immigration law firm, provides experienced and knowledgeable green card and visa attorneys to help guide you through the complex process of obtaining a green card and visa. Our team of Los Angeles immigration attorneys can help you identify the best strategy for obtaining a green card or visa. They can also assist with completing the necessary paperwork and filing the application. We can also work with you to ensure that your case is handled properly and in a timely manner. Our comprehensive legal services assure you that your green card or visa application will be handled with the utmost care and competence. Contact us today for a consultation to discuss your green card or visa needs.

What Are the Most Common Green Card and Visa Legal Disputes?

Several common legal disputes can arise while obtaining a green card or visa. Some of the most frequent include:

• Denials: One of the most common legal disputes is the denial of a green card or visa application. This can happen for various reasons, such as a lack of qualifications, a criminal history, or fraud.
• Revocations: Another common legal dispute is revoking a green card or visa that has already been issued. This can happen if the government determines that the holder is no longer eligible for the status. For example, they may have committed a crime or violated the terms of their visa.
• Delays: There are frequently delays in processing green card or visa applications. This can happen for various reasons, such as a backlog of applications or a lack of resources at the government agency responsible for processing the applications.
• Deportation Proceedings: Green card and visa holders who are found to have violated the terms of their status or who have committed certain crimes may face deportation proceedings.
• Discrimination: There have been cases where some people have been discriminated against because of their race, religion, national origin, or other factors during the process of obtaining a green card or visa.
• Fraud: Some people might falsely claim to be a spouse or family member, or misrepresent their qualifications or intentions for obtaining a green card or visa. This would violate immigration laws and could lead to criminal charges and other legal consequences.
• Unfair Allegations: Sometimes people are accused of crimes or misrepresentations when they have done nothing wrong. This is a common occurrence when obtaining a green card or visa. It can be difficult to defend against without the assistance of a qualified lawyer.

These are some of the most common legal disputes arising while obtaining a green card or visa. If you are facing any of these issues, it is important to consult with a qualified immigration lawyer. An experienced attorney will be able to help you understand your rights. They can work to ensure that your case is handled correctly.

What Information Is Required for a Green Card Application?

California is home to 10,633,200 immigrants who are an essential part of California’s diverse communities. Immigrants are more likely to be of working age compared to U.S.-born residents. This means they not only support the economy as workers but also as taxpayers who help fund programs like Social Security and Medicare.

A green card application, also known as a Form I-485, an Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, requires several pieces of information. The exact information required will depend on the green card categories being applied for. Generally, an applicant will need to provide the following:

• Personal Information: This includes the applicant’s name, date of birth, place of birth, and current address.
• Contact Information: They will need the applicant’s phone number and email address.
• Passport Information: This must show the applicant’s passport number, expiration date, and country of issuance.
• Family Information: This includes the names, dates of birth, and places of birth of the applicant’s spouse and children. 45% of California children have at least one immigrant parent.
• Employment Information: This needs to show the applicant’s current and past employment information, including job titles, dates of employment, and employer contact information.
• Education Information: This includes the applicant’s highest level of education completed and the name and location of the educational institution.
• Immigration History: This includes information on any previous immigration applications, petitions, or visas the applicant has held, as well as any previous entries into the United States.
• Criminal History: This must show any criminal convictions or charges the applicant has had, including the offense, date of conviction, and sentence.
• Financial Information: This comprises information on the applicant’s assets, liabilities, and income.
• Supporting Documents: You will need documents such as marriage certificates, birth certificates, diplomas, and police certificates.

It is important to note that additional documentation and information may be required depending on the category of the green card applied for. Also, it is best to consult with an immigration attorney throughout the process. They can ensure that the application is filled out correctly and that you have all the necessary documents.

Adjustment of Status

In California, the largest immigration groups come from Mexico, the Philippines, China, India, and Vietnam. Adjustment of status is the process you can use to apply for a green card while you are already in the U.S. This means you do not have to leave the United States to complete the processing of your visa. If you are outside the United States, you must apply for your visa at a U.S. consulate in your home country.

The first step is to see if you are eligible for a green card. U.S. immigration laws provide different ways to apply, depending on the category you qualify for. Immigration cases are typically overseen by the North Los Angeles Street Immigration Court, located at 300 North Los Angeles Street.

You can get a green card through your family in Los Angeles. This includes being an immediate relative of a U.S. citizen, such as a spouse, an unmarried child under 21, or a parent of a U.S. citizen who is at least 21.

Other family members may also qualify, like adult children, siblings of a U.S. citizen, or spouses and children of lawful permanent residents. Victims of abuse or extreme cruelty under the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) may self-petition for a green card.

You can also get a green card through employment. Green cards are also available for refugees and asylum seekers who have been in the U.S. for at least one year, as well as for victims of human trafficking.

After finding out if you qualify for a green card, you must file an immigrant petition. Most applicants need two forms: an immigrant petition and a green card application. Usually, someone else, such as a family member or employer, files the petition for you, but in some cases, you can file it yourself.

After filing, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will schedule a biometrics appointment to collect your fingerprints, photograph, and signature. This is used to verify your identity and complete background checks.

You must attend this appointment and acknowledge that your application is complete and accurate. USCIS may schedule an interview to ask questions under oath about your application.

When USCIS makes a decision regarding your green card application, you will receive a written notice. If approved, you will get an approval notice first, then your green card later. If denied, the notice will explain why and whether you can appeal or file a motion to reopen or reconsider.

How Can an Attorney Help With a Green Card Application?

An attorney can help with a green card application by providing guidance and assistance. Some specific ways an attorney can assist include:

• Gathering and preparing the necessary documentation: An attorney can help the applicant gather and organize all of the required documents. This includes proof of identity, proof of financial support, and any other relevant documentation that can support the application.
• Completing and filing the forms: An attorney can help the applicant complete and file the forms correctly and in a timely manner, increasing the chances of approval.
• Representing the applicant in interviews and hearings: An attorney can provide representation and guidance during the interview process. They can also represent the applicant in any subsequent hearings that may be required.
• Providing advice on legal issues: An attorney can advise and guide them through any legal issues that may arise during the application process. This can include information on complex immigration laws and regulations.
• Representation in the event of denial: If the application is denied, an attorney can provide representation and assist the applicant in appealing the decision. They can also help explore other options for obtaining a green card.
• Advising the client in their best interest: An attorney can help guide their client through the legal process. They can advise them on the best way to accelerate their application.

FAQs About Los Angeles Green Card & Visa Laws

How much does it cost to get a green card with a lawyer?

The cost to get a green card with a lawyer can vary depending on the type of green card you are applying for and the complexity of your case. Some factors that can affect the cost include the attorney’s hourly rate, the amount of time and work required to complete the application, and any additional expenses such as filing fees or travel costs. It is important to discuss the cost with the attorney before starting the process.

Can a lawyer speed up the green card process?

A lawyer cannot guarantee a faster processing time for a green card application. However, they can help ensure that the application is complete and accurate, reducing the risk of delays. An attorney can also help navigate the complex immigration laws and regulations. They can represent the applicant in any interviews or hearings that may be required.

Can a lawyer help me if my green card application is denied?

Yes, a lawyer can help you if your green card application is denied. They can provide representation and assist you in appealing the decision or exploring other options for obtaining a green card. They can also help you understand the reasons for the denial and advise you on how to address any issues that may have led to the denial.

How long does it take to get a green card?

The amount of time it takes to get a green card varies depending on the type of green card you are applying for and the complexity of your case. On average, it can take anywhere from six months to a year or more to get a green card. However, an attorney can help ensure that the application is complete and accurate. This can reduce the time it takes to process the application.

Hire a Green Card & Visa Lawyer Today

When you need help with your green card application, the knowledgeable and experienced attorneys at U.S. Law Center can assist in the process. We can help you understand the green card requirements and assist with completing and filing the forms accurately and on time. We can also represent you in interviews or hearings and advise you on any legal issues that may arise. To learn more about our services or to schedule a consultation, contact U.S. Law Center today.