There are over 40 nonimmigrant status categories for U.S. visas. Each one is designated for a specific yet very different function. For example, some permit students to study in the U.S., some grant temporary work to employees, and others allow tourists to visit. If the original reason you came to
When you petition for a green card through marriage, you have to validate your relationship. That includes proving any past marriages have been successfully dissolved. If you have been divorced, you will need to submit your green card application with a copy of your divorce decree. If you have your
In the past, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) only recognized heterosexual marriages. Same-sex spouses did not qualify for family-related green card sponsorship. However, same-sex marriage is now legal in all 50 states, thanks to a Supreme Court decision. Gay and lesbian couples may apply for a permanent resident card,
Each year, millions of people request some type of immigration benefit from the U.S. government. With so many applicants, complicated immigration laws, and confusion around correct filing processes, it’s no wonder that many immigrants fall victim to immigration scams. Immigration scams are not only perpetrated by those commonly referred to
Individuals who want to work and reside permanently in the U.S. may file Form I-485 to apply for a green card. The green card allows you to live and work indefinitely in the U.S. It’s the first step toward acquiring U.S. citizenship, and there are a lot of rules you must
If you’re already a citizen of the United States and need proof of your status, you can request a U.S. citizenship certificate. The form used to apply for a U.S. citizenship certificate is Form N-600, Application for Certificate of Citizenship. In order to properly file Form N-600, you can follow these
All visitors who travel to the U.S. with a nonimmigrant visa receive an I-94 Arrival-Departure record from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). This record is attached to their passport and serves as proof of legal entry into the United States. It also states how long the individual is allowed
There are certain points in your life when you will need to prove that you’re a citizen of the United States. The two most common reasons you’ll need to prove citizenship are when getting a job and paying your taxes. To prove your U.S. citizenship, you need certain documents. Understanding
Are you thinking about moving to the United States as a legal permanent resident? If so, you will have to pay an immigrant fee unless you meet the exemptions criteria. The fee is used by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) to process your immigration application and send
If you’re an immigrant, you must inform the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) whenever you change your address. An address change is crucial to ensure you receive up-to-date information on your case—plus, it’s the law. However, be aware that changing your address with the postal service will not
