Category: Uncategorized

U.S. immigration law allows certain U.S. citizens to file immigrant petitions for their parents to immigrate to the United States. This process falls under the immediate relative category, meaning there are no annual visa limits or waitlists, but eligibility depends on a few key factors. First Things First: Who Qualifies As A “Parent” Under Immigration Law? Your birth certificate (Were your parents named at the time of birth? Were you adopted?) Marital status of your parents (Were they married when you were born?) Living arrangements or legal/physical custody history (Did you live with them? Was there a legal separation?) Your… Read More

U.S. immigration law allows certain U.S. citizens to file immigrant petitions for their children to immigrate to the United States. This process falls under the immediate relative category, which means there are no annual visa limits or waitlists, which is a major benefit. However, eligibility depends on a few key factors, especially how “child” is defined under immigration law. First Things First: Who Qualifies As A “Child” Under Immigration Law? Under the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA), the term “child” has a specific legal meaning. It doesn’t just refer to age — it also includes the nature of the relationship.… Read More

Planning to marry someone who lives abroad? If you’re a U.S. citizen, you may be eligible to bring your spouse to the United States through the CR-1 or IR-1 visa, commonly called the spousal visa. Here’s a simple breakdown of the process so you know what to expect in 7 easy steps. Important Note: If your spouse has children, those children may be considered your stepchildren for U.S. immigration purposes. You may file separate immigrant petitions for your stepchildren if both of the following conditions are met: (i) the child was under 16 years old at the time you married… Read More

Premarital agreements commonly known as “prenups” can be powerful tools for protecting assets and clarifying financial expectations before marriage. However, not all prenups hold up in court. In Texas, a prenup must meet specific legal standards to be enforceable. If it doesn’t, a judge may set it aside during divorce proceedings. Here are some of the most common reasons a Texas court may find a premarital agreement unenforceable: One Attorney Represented Both Parties Texas law strongly discourages one attorney from representing both parties in a premarital agreement. Each person should have independent legal counsel to ensure their rights are protected.… Read More

Whether you’re a U.S. Citizen Or Lawful Permanent Resident, reuniting with your child in the United States is a deeply personal and important goal. Fortunately, U.S. immigration law allows parents to petition for their children to immigrate though the process varies depending on factors like the child’s age, marital status, and your own immigration status. Here’s a simple breakdown of the process for U.S. Lawful Permanent Residents (also known as “Green Card holders”) who have unmarried children under 21 years of age. Please remember that Green Card holders may only file petitions for unmarried children. If the child gets married… Read More

Whether you’re a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident, reuniting with your child in the United States is a deeply personal and important goal. Fortunately, U.S. immigration law allows parents to petition for their children to immigrate though the process varies depending on factors like the child’s age, marital status, and your own immigration status. Here’s a simple breakdown of the process for U.S. citizens that have unmarried children under 21 years old. Speak with our office to confirm that you qualify to petition for your child, and that your child is eligible to receive a family-based visa. Based on… Read More

Planning to marry someone who lives abroad? If you’re a U.S. citizen, you may be eligible to bring your fiancé(e) to the United States through the K-1 visa, commonly called the Fiancé(e) Visa. Here’s a simple breakdown of the process so you know what to expect in 10 easy steps. Important Note: Only U.S. citizens (not permanent residents or visa holders) can petition to bring a fiancé(e) to the U.S. under the K-1 visa. Speak with our office to confirm that you qualify to petition for your fiancé(e), and that your fiancé(e) is eligible to receive a K-1 visa. Based… Read More

The immigration interview is a crucial step in your journey, and if you need a translator, it’s essential to ensure effective communication. Here are five tips to help you make the most of using a translator during your interview: 1. Hire a Certified Translator Always use a professional, certified translator with immigration experience. Avoid friends or family, as personal connections can introduce bias or inaccuracies. 2. Prepare Your Translator in Advance Discuss your case with your translator beforehand. Make sure they understand key terms, your personal details, and any documents relevant to your interview. 3. Speak Clearly and Concisely Keep… Read More

The U.S. immigration system continues to evolve with new policies and regulations. Here are four recent changes that could affect your case: 1. Adjustment of Public Charge Rule The definition of who may become a “public charge” has been revised, making it less restrictive. This change affects those applying for green cards and visas. 2. Expanded DACA Protections The Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program has been expanded to protect more Dreamers from deportation, offering new pathways for work authorization. 3. Family Reunification Enhancements New policies prioritize family reunification, making it easier for spouses and minor children of permanent… Read More

Filing a Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) case can provide relief and protection for survivors. Here are three things you can and cannot do after filing your VAWA application: What You Can Do: Continue Living in the U.S. VAWA allows you to remain in the United States legally while your case is pending. Work with Proper Authorization You can apply for a work permit, enabling you to support yourself financially during the process. Seek Supportive Services Access resources like counseling, housing assistance, and legal support for survivors of domestic violence. What You Cannot Do: Leave the U.S. Without Authorization Traveling… Read More