Uncategorized

U-visas for Victims of Crime in the U.S.

The United States is one of the most diverse countries in the world. There are over 400 languages spoken and people from every country come to live here. At RelisLaw, we have given hundreds of people legal guidance on how to live in the U.S. and have a chance at a better life. However, not every immigrant story begins with a warm welcome. Immigrants, especially undocumented immigrants, are statistically less likely Read More

Understanding the E-2 Visa Requirements for Investors

The global economy is in a very unusual situation, which most people are very unfamiliar with. While the high inflation, risk of a recession or depression, and other economic uncertainty can be stressful and even cause problems for many people, it is also these types of conditions that can lead to the biggest opportunities. If you have the resources to establish a business, acting now may give you the ability to get Read More

Adjustment of Status Through Fiancé, Spousal, and E2 (Business Investor) Visas

The goal of many non-citizens and non-lawful permanent residents (LPRs) of the U.S. is to, eventually, obtain a green card so that they are allowed to indefinitely stay in the U.S. Many foreign nationals achieve this goal through an adjustment of status, which is the process through which someone applies for a green card, to become a lawful permanent resident, while they are already legally residing in the U.S. Love Read More

What’s the Difference Between a Refugee and an Asylee?

Following the proper immigration process is always important, but it is especially critical when petitioning the United States because you fear for your safety in your home country. The two main options in this type of situation are petitioning as a refugee and petitioning as an asylee. Understanding the difference between these two options will help to ensure you are following the correct processes so you do not Read More

The L-1 Visa for Temporary Workers

The L-1 visa was created in the Immigration Act of 1990 to allow American companies with foreign operations to transfer skilled employees to the United States for up to seven years. The L-1 visa is a non-immigrant visa category and generally allows a U.S. employer to transfer an employee or executive from one of its foreign offices in order to bring their knowledge and ability to a U.S. office.  The L-1 visa is one Read More

The Trafficking Victims Protection Act and T Visa

The Trafficking Victims Protection Act (TVPA) is a U.S. federal law that was enacted in 2000 to combat human trafficking. The TVPA has been amended several times over the years to address different issues in human trafficking. In particular, the law provides for the T visa (also known as the "T-1" visa), which is a nonimmigrant status intended to give victims of human trafficking a path to permanent residence in the Read More

The VAWA Petition for Victims of Domestic Violence

Non-citizen victims of domestic violence can receive permanent residency through the Violence Against Women Act, also known as VAWA. Originally established in 1994, VAWA has helped establish several new protections for victims of domestic violence, as well as create programs to provide housing and assistance to those in need. Despite the name, VAWA does not only apply to women - anyone can take advantage of the Read More

The O1A / O1B Visa for Creatives, Artists, and Those With Extraordinary Ability in Business, Science, Education, Athletics – Most Fields

For those with abilities that set them apart, the O1A Visa is available as a non-immigrant visa with residency in the United States for up to three years, and the ability to keep applying for extensions of stay. The main requirement of this visa is that you are somehow distinguished in your field and have enjoyed ‘sustained acclaim’, either by national recognition or a record of extraordinary achievement. For those Read More

You May Be Eligible for a T-1 Visa, Regardless of Your Current Immigration Status

For anyone who has faced coercion in their work, the T-1 visa for victims of human trafficking may be able to provide both protection from harmful employers and safe harbor in the United States. Because abuse in the workplace is a frequent issue for non-citizens, this visa was created to provide protection to those who face difficulties in their work due to their citizenship status.  The T-1 visa is available Read More

The E-2 Visa for Investors & Essential Workers

For those with an entrepreneurial spirit, or their employees who would like to establish a business within the United States, the E-2 visa may be your solution. These visas are provided on the basis of commerce, with the intent of bringing new businesses to the American market. Both the business owner and their essential employees can apply for E visas, which allows for their entry to the United States to develop Read More