The U.S. immigration system has, historically, accommodated those fleeing violence, famine, and disasters from other countries by offering them a status called right of asylum. There are two common types of asylum recognized by the U.S. Citizen and Immigration Services (USCIS): affirmative and defensive asylum. This blog will focus on affirmative asylum, rather than defensive asylum, which can be requested by Read More

There are a number of options available for bringing over exceptional foreign talent to the U.S. O visas, which is a family of non-immigrant (temporary) visas, are meant for allowing exceptional workers from a select group of industries to work in the U.S. for a period of time. Within that family is the O-1A visa, which is reserved for individuals who have shown extraordinary ability in sciences, education, business, Read More

As the United States responds to coronavirus, many immigrants are feeling frightened and confused about how this will impact them. While things are changing quickly and it’s difficult to be certain of what we can expect, our team is here for you and wants to help. In today’s blog, we’re looking at a few of the ways COVID-19 has affected the immigration process and what these changes mean for you.  Limited travel Read More

There are many options for U.S. companies to bring over talented and exceptional workers from foreign nations. One option is the O visa, which is a temporary (non-immigrant) visa that allows for individuals with extraordinary ability in fields of business, sciences, arts, education, or athletics. Within the O-1 preference, which is the first tier (relative to O-2 and O-3 visas), there are O-1A and O-1B visas. This Read More

American Green Card - United States Permanent Residency Card Closeup. Facing removal from the country, your loved ones, and your home is undoubtedly a stressful time. If you are a lawful permanent resident of the U.S. by way of a green card, a notice that you might be facing removal is quite an unwelcome shock. No matter how dire your circumstances seem, though, understand that there are always actions you can Read More

If you’re faced with possible deportation by way of an immigration trial, your number one priority will likely be getting out of the detention facility so you can see your loved ones and prepare for your defense. Similar to criminal trials, immigration courts allow detainees to initiate bond hearings so that their case may be heard for release on bond. Bond is simply money or assets you give to the courts as Read More

When you receive a Notice to Appear, you have been informed that government agents intend to proceed with deportation against you. After you receive that, the first official hearing you will attend is the Master Calendar Hearing, which is similar to an arraignment in a criminal trial. During the Master Calendar Hearing, you will communicate to the judge that you intend to mount a defense in your case. You will have Read More

You’ve received a Notice to Appear. This is a serious occasion that requires the immediate assistance of an immigration attorney. If you receive a Notice to Appear, the government intends to initiate removal proceedings and send you back to your home country. Your NTA should include information on your Master Calendar Hearing. Save this information and provide it to your attorney. Preparing for the Master Calendar Read More

Those who choose to come to the United States by getting a job at an American company or moving to the American location of an international company, or those that wish to set up their own company that is of national interest in the U.S., may pursue EB visas. Short “employment-based” EB visas give preference to those who possess job skills and education that are likely to enrich and improve the United States. What Read More

You’ve received a Notice to Appear, either served in person by an immigration officer or in the mail. While this may induce some panic, it’s important to take a deep breath, read the document in its entirety, and make a plan.  Verify the Accuracy of the NTA First, try to hold off the initial wave of panic and take a thorough look at the NTA. This charging document includes information about you, the nature of the Read More