Smal Immigration Law Office
​
  • Home: About Us
  • Services: Practice Areas
  • Contact Us
  • IN RUSSIAN
  • Blog: USA Immigration Law Updates
  • Our Websites & Social Media
  • Our Customers' Reviews
  • Disclaimer
  • Useful Links

How to Notarize a POA Power of Attorney with Apostille in a foreign language in Nebraska

10/26/2023

0 Comments

 
Я нотариус в штате Небраска. Если вам нужно заверить доверенность в штате Небраске, я буду рада вам помочь нотариально заверить доверенность для вашей страны на русском, украинском или белорусском языках.  

Процесс заверения доверенности с апостилем на иностранном языке для страны за пределами США в штате Небраска:

1) Вы заказываете текст доверенности у нотариуса в вашей стране.
2) Нотариус или ваши близкие высылают вам черновик/текст доверенности как Word doc по емейл.
3) Вы вышлите мне черновик доверенности по емейл. Я проверю, чтобы оформление документа соответствовал законам Небраски.
4) Мы встретимся, и вы принесете доверенность и ваш паспорт или другой документ удостоверяющий личность, и я нотариально заверю вашу подпись на доверенности (доверенность может быть на языке вашей страны, но нотариальное заверение будет на английском).
5) Вы или пошлете нотариально заверенную доверенность по почте или лично подъедете в офис Секретаря Штата Небраска в город Линкольн для получения Апостиля на вашу доверенность. 
6) Вы вышлите вашим родным готовый документ по почте. Перед этим вы отсканируйте и сохраните копию, не разделяя страницы доверенности.
7) В вашей стране ваши родные закажут перевод доверенности, так как хотя доверенность на вашем родном языке, но нотариальное заверение и апостиль сделаны на английском.

Буду рада вам помочь. Для контакта выберите емейл и объясните в чем вам нужна помощь.

(10-26-2023: В настоящее время с сентября 2023 Беларусь ввела ограничения на прием доверенностей, заверенных за пределами Беларуси).



Picture
0 Comments

USCIS Local Field Offices are Closed Until April 7, 2020, will be extended. Our Law Office is Open.

3/19/2020

0 Comments

 
During COVID-19 pandemic, our virtual online immigration law office remains OPEN.

A phone or video conference appointment with an attorney can be scheduled by emailing us.

On March 18, 2020, the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services announced the temporary closure of its local field and asylum offices as well as its application support centers. The closure will remain in effect until at least April 1, 2020.

On March 25th, temporary closure of USCIS local offices was extended to April 7th 2020, unless the public closures are extended further. This includes interviews, naturalization ceremonies and biometric collection appointments. However, USCIS will continue to provide emergency services during this time. If you have an emergency service request, please contact the USCIS Contact Center. Employees in these offices are continuing to perform mission-essential services that do not require face-to-face contact with the public.
USCIS field offices will send de-scheduling notices to applicants and petitioners with scheduled appointments impacted by the public closure. USCIS will also send de-scheduling notices to naturalization applicants scheduled for naturalization ceremonies, and will reschedule all applicants when USCIS resumes normal operations.

USCIS will post and update COVID-19 information here.

However, USCIS Service Centers remain open and cases are being processed.

We will continue to file new petitions with USCIS as well as continue to meet all deadlines. At this time, USCIS has not modified any deadlines or filing requirements.

​We will continue to monitor and provide updates at https://law-visa-usa.com/blog-usa-immigration-law-updates.html
Picture
0 Comments

How to Apply for a Fiancee K-1 Visa

12/17/2018

0 Comments

 
​What is a fiancée K-1 and K-2 visa? Who can apply? What is the process, timeframes and the costs?
The fiancée K-1 nonimmigrant visa is for the foreign national fiancée of a United States citizen. Only a U.S. citizen can petition for his or her foreign fiancée. A U.S. citizen can file a fiancée visa petition only after they have met in person in the previous two years: meeting each other online or through a video chat or messenger is not enough. The purpose of a K-1 visa is for foreign citizen fiancée to travel to the United States and marry his or her U.S. citizen sponsor within 90 days of arrival. 
The foreign fiancee will then apply for adjustment of status (aka “green card”) with the USCIS at the Department of Homeland Security. This is a separate legal process.
K-1 visa is a non-immigrant visa. However, because a fiancée visa is intended to help a foreign national to immigrate to the U.S. and allows him or her to apply for a green card after marriage to a U.S. citizen petitioner shortly after arrival in the United States, the fiancé(e) must meet most of the requirements of an immigrant visa.
K-2 visa is a fiancée visa for eligible children of K-1 visa applicant (unmarried children under 21).
As of 12/2018, current processing times are approx. 5 to 7 months for a I-129F Petition, plus additional 3 to 6 weeks for the NVC stage, plus additional 1-3 months for a visa application process (varies depending on a Consulate and your own readiness).

The First Step: Filing the Petition, USCIS Form I-129F
 (1) The U.S. citizen fiancé, must file Form I-129F, Petition for Alien Fiancé(e), with the USCIS. Form I-129F cannot be filed at a U.S. Embassy, Consulate, or USCIS office abroad.
 (2) When USCIS approves the I-129F petition, it is sent to the National Visa Center (NVC). The NVC will assign a new a case number and directly forward the approved fiancée visa petition to the U.S. Embassy or Consulate where a foreign fiancée will apply for a visa.

The Second Step: Applying for a Visa
The NVC will mail a letter with a new case number after it sends a fiancée visa case to the U.S. Embassy or Consulate. Once you receive this letter, it is time to apply for a K-1 visa and prepare for the interview.
Eligible children of K-1 visa applicants may apply for K-2 visas. Children are included into the I-129F petition. However, separate visa applications and visa fees are required for every child.

Required Documentation The foreign national fiancée and eligible children applying for K-2 visas will be required to bring the following forms and documents to the visa interview:
  • Completed Form DS-160, Nonimmigrant Visa Application. Each K-1 and K-2 visa applicant must: (1) complete Form DS-160 online, (2) pay a visa fee, and (3) print the DS-160 confirmation page to bring to a visa interview. 
  • A passport valid for travel to the United States and with a validity date at least six months beyond your intended period of stay in the U.S.
  • Divorce or death certificate(s) of any and all previous spouse(s) for both you and the U.S. citizen petitioner.
  • Police certificates from your home country and all other countries where you have lived for six months or more since age 16 (Police certificates are also required for a foreign fiancée and all accompanying children age 16 or older)
  • Medical examination (for K-1 and K-2 visa applicants)
  • Evidence of financial support (Form I-134, Affidavit of Support, and proof of sponsor’s employment and income usually are required). There is no extra fee for the Form I-134. For a fiancée visa, the Affidavit of Support, Form I-134, is required. There is another Affidavit of Support, Form I-864, which will be required later, when you apply for a green card after marriage. The forms are different. The income requirements are also different. When submitting the Affidavit of Support, Form I-134, you need to show that your U.S. sponsor's income is 100 percent of the federal poverty guideline. When submitting the Affidavit of Support, Form I-864, the sponsor must be able to demonstrate that his or her income is at least 125 percent of the federal poverty guideline minimum income requirement. If you estimate that both K-1 visa and a green card will be applied for during the same tax year, you should plan and gather all required documentation in advance.
  • Evidence of relationship with your U.S. citizen fiancée, which is very important at the last stage, as well as at the first stage.
The consular officer may ask for additional information, such as photographs, chat logs, emails and other proof that the relationship with your U.S. citizen fiancé(e) is genuine and real. Documents in foreign languages, other than the language of the country in which the application takes place, should be translated. Applicants should take to the visa interview legible photocopies of civil documents and translations, such as birth and divorce certificates.

Fees

​Government filing fees are subject to change (as of 12/2018, the fees are as follows): 
  • US$535 -- Filing fee for an Alien Fiancé(e) Petition, Form I-129F
  • US$265 -- Nonimmigrant visa application processing fee, Form DS-160 (required for each K visa applicant)
  • Medical examination fee, paid directly to a designated clinic (required for each K-1 and K-2 visa applicant) – costs vary, please check with the U.S. embassy in the country where a fiancée will apply for a visa
  • Other costs may include translation and notarization charges, fees for getting the documents required for the visa application (such as passport, police certificates, birth certificates, etc.). Costs vary from country to country.
  • US$1,225 -- Filing Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or to Adjust Status. Your spouse will submit this application after marriage. There could be additional applications filed concurrently: Application for a work permit and Application for advance parole. These applications are optional, but could be advisable.
  • Legal fees – we charge flat fee which could vary from case to case, depending on difficulty and the number of dependents. Please contact attorney for a case evaluation, and we will gladly give you a quote.
To ensure that your application is accepted and not rejected, the most current edition of the form must be submitted, accompanied by a correct filing fee. It is recommended that you check the most current edition of every application and the most current filing fees at USCIS and Department of State websites shortly before applying.

Please note that the approved I-129F petition is valid for four (4) months from the date of approval by USCIS. However, a consular officer can extend the validity of the petition if it expires before visa processing is completed.

Certain conditions and activities can make a visa applicant ineligible for a visa. Examples of these ineligibilities include: certain criminal records; overstaying a previous visa in the U.S.; submitting fraudulent documents; previous deportation or removal order, or voluntary departure; failure to prove bona fide fiancée relationship; etc. If you are found to be ineligible for a visa, the Consular Officer will advise you whether there is waiver of the ineligibility and what the waiver process is.

After your K-1 Fiancé(e) Visa was approved, you will generally wait 5 to 7 business days to pick up your passport, a visa, and a sealed packet containing the documents you provided, plus other documents prepared by the U.S. Embassy or Consulate. It is important that you do not open the sealed packet. Only the DHS immigration official should open this packet when you enter the United States.
If you have children who received K-2 visas, you will either travel together or your children holding K-2 visas will have to follow you to the U.S.

Please note that K-1 and K-2 visas are valid for a single admission to the United States within the validity of the visa, which will be a maximum of 6 months from the date of issuance.
 
It is advisable not to purchase the tickets, not to sell real estate and business abroad until after a K-1 visa has been approved and issued. In order to limit the risk even more, some of other clients preferred not to sell their apartments, cars, businesses until after they became lawful permanent residents of the United States.

Please note that you must either marry your U.S. citizen fiance within 90 days of your entry into the United States, or depart the U.S. before the expiration of the 90-day period of admission. If not married within the 90-day window, or married within 90 days, but didn’t apply for a green card, if you wish to stay in the United States and apply for a green card, contact a competent immigration attorney for legal advice.

If you would like to schedule a telephone consultation or need help, please contact attorney for a case evaluation, and we will gladly give you a quote and advise you.

Please see below a few brief videos: Part 1, Part 2 and Part 3.

Information and videos in Russian can be found here.

​
0 Comments

I-601A Provisional Waiver Update: How to Avoid Rejection

3/23/2017

0 Comments

 
In recent months, we have heard from many people whose applications for a provisional waiver, I-601A, were rejected for some technical and easily avoidable reason. USCIS had reported that they have seen an increase in rejections of Forms I-601A, Application for Provisional Unlawful Presence Waiver.

Please remember that if you are requesting a provisional unlawful presence waiver, you must file the current version of Form I-601A with the proper fee(s) and in accordance with the form instructions.  
When submitting Form I-601A, please make sure you:
  • Submit the most current version of Form I-601A (update 04/2019: current edition is 02/13/2019)
  • Complete all required fields and sign the form.
  • Submit the proper filing fee of $630.(as of 2017). If you are younger than 79, you must also pay $85 for biometric services (for I-601A)
 Also, you must submit:
  • A printout from the Electronic Diversity Visa Entrant Status Check page at dvlottery.state.gov confirming that you are a DV Program selectee or derivative
or
  • The U.S. Department of State (DOS) National Visa Center immigrant visa processing fee receipt showing you have paid the fee in full.
Note: Documents such as the Immigrant Visa Application Processing Fee Bill Invoice, Affidavit of Support (AOS) Fee receipt or a receipt showing the payment is in process are not accepted and could cause delays in processing your case. You must provide a proof that you paid the immigrant visa fee and the payment was processed.

To ensure that you application is approved, it is your burden, as an applicant, to provide sufficient evidence of extreme hardship, relationship and other supporting documents.

These are all issues that are easy to correct. Do not place yourself in the situation where your application is rejected for a silly and easily avoidable reason, or denied for lack of evidence and supporting documentation. If you need legal advice, want to schedule a consultation or want to hire an attorney, please email us and we will get back to you to schedule the best time to talk on the phone or video chat.


Previously, we posted additional information about filing a provisional waiver application on our blog here, and here and linked to the ILRC practice advisory here. USCIS Practice Manual is here.

​Briefly in Russian:

Напоминание о том как избежать отказа в заявлении на вейвер, по английски extreme hardship waiver USCIS форма заявления I-601 и provisional waiver USCIS форма заявления I-601A. 
  • Используйте самое последнее и действительное издание формы. В настоящее время (04-2019) это издание, датированное 13 февраля 2019 г. 
  • Перед подачей заявления обязательно проверьте правильную ли форму вы заполнили и уточните сумму госпошлины.
  • Приложите чек на правильную сумму за форму I-601A. В настоящее время госпошлина составляет 630 долларов, плюс 85 долларов за отпечатки пальцев, если вам нет 79 лет.
  • Заполните все графы и ответьте правильно на все вопросы в заявлении. 
  • Приложите все сопутствующие документы и доказательства. Именно для этого, чтобы правильно организовать и представить ваши доказательства, разумно проконсультироваться или нанять адвоката для помощи в ведении дела. Мы оказываем услуги по вейверам и предоставляем платные консультации тем клиентам, кому нужен совет адвоката. Для того, чтобы назначить время и дату консультации, свяжитесь с нами по электронной почте.
  • Помните - это ваша обязанность доказать, что вам должны утвердить вейвер. Вам не обязаны утвердить, а могут утвердить ваше заявление на вейвер, ЕСЛИ вы докажете, что "more likely than not" ваш родственник будет в экстремальной ситуации если вам не дадут вейвер и не разрешат вернуться в США. Стандарт в таких делах - preponderance of the evidence.
  • Помните, что ваши дети не являются теми родственниками, на ущерб которым вы опираетесь в своем заявлении. Вашим родственником может быть муж, жена, отец, мать - американские граждане или постоянные жители США (но не дети). У вас может быть более одного родственника. Родственник, ущерб которому вы описываете, может быть другой, не тот, кто подал на вас петицию I-130.
  • Вы обязаны приложить доказательство того, что вы уже оплатили пошлину за иммиграционную визу или же распечатать уведомление о том, что вас выбрали как победителя лотереи грин карт.
  • В последние несколько лет произошли большие изменения в области вейвера I-601 и I-601A. За время новой администрации с 2017 года пока не было никаких существенных изменений в этой области иммиграционного права.
  • Перед подачей, убедитесь, что вам нужен вейвер, что у вас есть соответствующий родственник, что вы соответствуете стандарту на вейвер и что у вас достаточно доказательств, и вы сможете грамотно аргументировать почему вам должны утвердить вейвер. Также убедитесь, что вы не подпадаете под "permanent bar", так как в этом случае вам вейвер не положен. Помните, что теперь получение вейвера возможно во всех семейных категориях, не только в категории immediate relative но и во всех family preference categories. 
  • Если вам нужен совет и помощь адвоката,  вы можете связаться с нами по этому адресу или нажмите линк внизу. Мы вам вышлем анкету и затем договоримся и времени и дате телефонной консультации.
Email to attorney
Picture
0 Comments

Unauthorized Practice of Immigration Law (UPIL) in Nebraska & State-by-State Overview

3/7/2017

0 Comments

 
What Is UPL or UPIL:

The “Unauthorized Practice of Immigration Law (UPIL): A State-by-State Overview of Legal Mechanisms to Combat these Deceptive Practices” resource is intended for immigration attorneys, recognized and accredited representative, and community-based organizations assisting noncitizen clients who have been victims of unauthorized practice of immigration law.

Unauthorized practitioners of immigration law are often referred to as “notarios,” which is notary public in Spanish, or immigration “consultants.” These individuals can delay immigration matters, at best, and pose a threat to the ability of a noncitizen to successfully qualify for immigration benefits, at worst. Victims of unauthorized practice of immigration law also face indescribable loss, including dashed hopes for legal status in the United States, depletion of limited financial resources, and possibly deportation from the United States.

NEBRASKA

UPL Statute SummaryNebraska Revised Statutes, 64-105.03, Notary public, unauthorized practice of law; prohibited
  1. A notary public who is not an attorney shall not engage in the unauthorized practice of law as provided in this section.
  2. If notarial certificate wording is not provided or indicated for a document, a notary public who is not an attorney shall not determine the type of notarial act or certificate to be used.
  3. A notary public who is not an attorney shall not assist another person in drafting, completing, selecting, or understanding a document or transaction requiring a notarial act.
  4. A notary public who is not an attorney shall not claim to have powers, qualifications, rights, or privileges that the office of notary public does not provide, including the power to counsel on immigration matters.
  5. A notary public who is not an attorney and who advertises notarial services in a language other than English shall include in any advertisement, notice, letterhead, or sign a statement prominently displayed in the same language as follows: "I am not an attorney and have no authority to give advice on immigration or other legal matters".
  6. A notary public who is not an attorney may not use the term notario publico or any equivalent non-English term in any business card, advertisement, notice, or sign.
  7. This section does not preclude a notary public who is duly qualified, trained, or experienced in a particular industry or professional field from selecting, drafting, completing, or advising on a document or certificate related to a matter within that industry or field.
  8. A violation of any of the provisions of this section shall be considered the unauthorized practice of law and subject to the penalties provided in section 7-101.
Nebraska Revised Statutes, 7-101. Unauthorized practice of law; penalty.

Except as provided in section 7-101.01, no person shall practice as an attorney or counselor at law, or commence, conduct or defend any action or proceeding to which he is not a party, either by using or subscribing his own name, or the name of any other person, or by drawing pleadings or other papers to be signed and filed by a party, in any court of record of this state, unless he has been previously admitted to the bar by order of the Supreme Court of this state. No such paper shall be received or filed in any action or proceeding unless the same bears the endorsement of some admitted attorney, or is drawn, signed, and presented by a party to the action or proceeding. It is hereby made the duty of the judges of such courts to enforce this prohibition. Any person who shall violate any of the provisions of this section shall be guilty of a Class III misdemeanor, but this section shall not apply to persons admitted to the bar under preexisting laws.

Enforcement Mechanisms/Complaint Processes for UPIL Victims may file a complaint with the Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division, under the Nebraska Deceptive Trade Practices Act, which may be accessed here.

Nebraska consumer protection information and contact forms are here.

One may also submit a complaint to the Nebraska Judicial Branch’s Commission on the Unauthorized Practice of Law. Contact information may be obtained here.

If you are looking for any other state, you can find state-by-state UPIL rules and information here.

We hope you find this information helpful!
​
(Sometimes government web links might have been moved, updated or changed and no longer work.)

#UPL #UPIL #unauthorizedpracticeoflaw #notarioscam 

​
Picture
0 Comments

USCIS, DHS, NVC and DoS useful links, forms, fees and contact details

1/11/2017

0 Comments

 
​Полезная информация (контакты, даты, сроки, как с ними связаться) об иммиграционной службе США, Национальном Визовом Центре, офисах по политубежищу, посольствам и консульствам США.
​

USCIS or DHS
 website where you can find USCIS contact number, webforms and download all applications and forms for free is here.

USCIS Case Status: you can check status of your pending case online here.

USCIS Processing Times: you can see how fast cases are being adjudicated or decided by different USCIS / DHS offices around the United States here.

USCIS Change of Address Form Online: you can submit your change of address form online here.

USCIS Case Inquiry Webforms: you can submit your questions or case inquiry directly to USCIS by using one of the webforms here.

How to find USCIS field offices, ASC Application Support Centers, Asylum officers - use USCIS Officer Locator here.

How to Find a Medical Doctor for a USCIS I-693 Medical Examination - use USCIS Designated Doctor Locator. 

How to verify if a particular USCIS office is open or closed due to bad weather or other circumstances - use USCIS Office Closings Daily Bulletin, which is updated daily. 

USCIS International Offices Processing Times - use this link to find out current processing times at USCIS offices located overseas.


Asylum Office Scheduling Bulletin is posted by Asylum Office here.

US Department of State Monthly Visa Bulletin: you can find monthly visa bulletin and check how fast your priority date is progressing here.

NVC National Visa Center contact information - if you need to contact NVC regarding a pending case.


You can find out current Visa Fees for various visas to USA here.

Know Your Rights: What to do during the ICE or immigration raid at work, at home, in a public place; what questions you must answer and when you shall remain current. Download a PDF file in English here. 

To schedule a consultation with an experienced immigration attorney who speaks English and Russian, please email us to schedule.

​
Picture
0 Comments

B-2 / B-1 visitor or tourist visa denial rates for FY 2015 from the US Department of State. 

5/3/2016

0 Comments

 
Picture
The denial rates vary from 0% in San Marino, Liechtenstein, and Andorra to 96% in Republic of Palau, 63% Syria, 34% Ukraine, 13% Belarus, and 10% Russia.

Please note that this applies only to applications for B-1 and B-2 visitor or tourist visa.

If you have questions or need help applying for your visitor or tourist visa to the United States, please email an attorney to schedule a consultation.


По-русски: статистика отказов в выдаче гостевой или туристической визы в США в 2015 году.
​Это относится только к визе B1 | B2.
Украина - 34% заявлений отказано.
Россия - 10% заявлений отказано.
Беларусь - 13% заявлений отказано.
Грузия - более 50% отказано.
Франция - 16% отказано.
Казахстан - 12.7% отказано.
Молдова - 42% отказано.
Узбекистан - 50% отказано.
Таджикистан - 44.44% отказано. 


Interesting and detailed statistics for the last fiscal year 2015 can be found here: 
https://travel.state.gov/content/dam/visas/Statistics/Non-Immigrant-Statistics/RefusalRates/FY15.pdf
0 Comments

About dangers of a "free legal consultation": article in Russian from my Moscow colleagues.

10/29/2015

0 Comments

 
Picture
Article from my Moscow colleague in Russian below: how to avoid making mistakes when choosing and retaining an attorney, lawyer, immigration attorney; or when deciding whether to file anything, and what steps should be taken to protect and secure your legal rights. 

Why an offer of a "free first consultation" or "free chat with our representative through our website" is usually an indication of a scam and an unqualified lawyer (or even a non-lawyer who pretends to be an attorney) who is ready to "promise" and "guarantee" success to anyone as long as the client is paying, no matter the consequences to a client.

*****************
Как известно, нередко недобросовестные юристы и юрфирмы клиентов привлекают через интернет, где обещают провести бесплатную консультацию (заманивают бесплатными консультациями). 

Например, человек заходит на юридические сайты, где пытается найти ответы на свои вопросы бесплатно. Всплывает окошко чата, где виртуальный оператор предлагает его проконсультировать. Человек излагает проблему. Но будьте уверены, что исчерпывающе и пошагово никто его консультировать не собирается. Его попросят оставить номер телефона. Когда ему перезвонят, то вся суть разговора сведется к тому, что ему пообещают, что *обязательно помогут* и *гарантирую успех* за определенную сумму денег.

Не секрет, что многие предпочитают слышать то, что лишь хотят услышать. Так происходит и при обращении к юристам. Некоторые люди, как им кажется, "знают все сами", а иногда и больше специалистов. Так вот, если некоторым людям добросовестный юрист говорит, что шансов мало или их нет вовсе, они уверенно отправляются к тем юристам, из уст которых они услышат слова поддержки и гарантию успеха.

Следует помнить: 1) бесплатный сыр бывает только в мышеловке, 2) добросовестный адвокат не имеет право гарантировать успех, 3) хороший адвокат не предоставляет бесплатных консультаций, так как зачем ему/ей это нужно, и на это просто нет времени, к тому же хороший адвокат понимает, что самое главное, это предварительно изучить дело клиента и дать ему правильный совет, а только затем переходить к действиям и заключать договор.

Очень полезная статья по-русски от моих московских коллег тут.


0 Comments

LIST OF USEFUL LINKS: USCIS, Processing Times, Visa Bulletin, Priority Dates, Case Status, Case Inquiry.

10/27/2015

0 Comments

 
USCIS or DHS website where you can find USCIS contact number, webforms and download all applications and forms for free is here.

USCIS Case Status: you can check status of your pending case online here.

Visa Case Status: you can check status of your immigrant visa IV or non-immigrant visa NIV case here.
​
USCIS Processing Times: you can see how fast cases are being adjudicated or decided by different USCIS / DHS offices around the United States here.

USCIS Change of Address Form Online: you can submit your change of address form online here.

USCIS Case Inquiry Webforms: you can submit your questions or case inquiry directly to USCIS by using one of the webforms here.

USCIS submit electronically I-90, N-400 or I-131A, or pay a Green Card fee online.

How to find USCIS field offices, ASC Application Support Centers, Asylum officers - use USCIS Officer Locator here.

How to Find a Medical Doctor for a USCIS I-693 Medical Examination - use USCIS Designated Doctor Locator. 

How to verify if a particular USCIS office is open or closed due to bad weather or other circumstances - use USCIS Office Closings Daily Bulletin. 

How to obtain an official record of admission from CBP, Form I-94. You will need to provide your passport number and a country, first and last names, date of birth. The official I-94 will include an admission number (that you need for several immigration applications and forms), date and class of admission, and expiration date, name and a passport information.

Asylum Office Scheduling Bulletin is posted by Asylum Office here.

US Department of State Monthly Visa Bulletin: you can find monthly visa bulletin and check how fast your priority date is progressing here.

You can find out current Visa Fees for various visas to USA here. 

Complete a nonimmigrant visa application online: DS-160.

Complete an immigrant visa application online: DS-260.

You can pay your Green Card fee online here. You can find step-by-step instructions here.

Now, you can electronically submit several applications: USCIS Forms I-90, N-400, I-131A.

Know Your Rights: What to do during the ICE or immigration raid at work, at home, in a public place; what questions you must answer and when you shall remain silent. (In English, Spanish, Russian, Chinese, Vietnamese, Tagalog, Korean and Arabic).

To schedule a consultation with an experienced immigration attorney who speaks English and Russian, please email us to schedule a telephone or Skype appointment with attorney Luba Smal.

​
Picture
0 Comments

How to bring your newborn child to USA, if you are a permanent resident or an immigrant visa holder?

10/22/2015

0 Comments

 
Picture
Sometimes in my practice as an immigration attorney, I see people make wrong decisions which then affect their lives for many years, result in separation from family and children; can be a cause of severe depression; and loss of the permanent resident status (aka "green card").

When in doubt or not sure what to do, you should consult with an experienced immigration attorney or contact the US consulate in your home country.

Situation #1:

Child born abroad to Lawful Permanent Resident (LPR) may be allowed to board the plane to the United States, if the child was born during the temporary visit abroad of a mother who is a lawful permanent resident alien of the United States, provided that the child’s application for admission to the United States is made within two years of birth and the child is accompanied by the parent who is applying for readmission as a permanent resident upon the first return of the parent.

Situation #2: 

Child born abroad to an accompanying parent after issuance of an immigrant visa to the parent but prior to the parent’s initial admission as an immigrant may be boarded as long as the child has a passport or is listed in a parent’s passport and is in possession of the birth certificate.

Before traveling to the United States, it's a good idea to contact the U.S. embassy or consulate in your home country to obtain a transportation letter. 

CBP guidance can be found here. 


0 Comments

USCIS revised procedures for determining VISA availability for adjustment of status applicants (I-485) in both family-based and employment-based visa categories.

9/9/2015

0 Comments

 
Picture
On September 09 2015, USCIS Announces Revised Procedures for Determining Visa Availability for Applicants Waiting to File for Adjustment of Status.

USCIS, in coordination with Department of State (DOS), is revising the procedures for determining visa availability for applicants waiting to file for employment-based or family-sponsored preference adjustment of status. The revised process will better connect USCIS procedures with the US Department of State (DOS) procedures, which are used for foreign nationals who seek to become U.S. permanent residents by applying for immigrant visas at U.S. consulates and embassies abroad.

The Visa Bulletin revisions implement November 2014 executive actions on immigration announced by President Obama and Secretary of Homeland Security Johnson, as detailed in the White House report, Modernizing and Streamlining Our Legal Immigration System for the 21st century, issued in July 2015. 

What is Changing.

Starting October 1, 2015, you will be able to submit your application for adjustment of status or for an immigrant visa before your priority date is current. 

Two charts per visa preference category will be posted in the DOS Visa Bulletin:
  • Current priority dates for particular visa categories; and
  • The earliest dates for filing application for adjustment of status (earliest dates when applicants may be able to apply).
See October 2015 Visa Bulletin here. However, the priority dates in the Visa Bulletin can retrogress in November. Consult an attorney about your specific case so you won't miss the opportunity of applying earlier.

When filing an application for adjustment of status, I-485, an applicant can concurrently file an application for a work permit and advance parole. This is great news for many immigrants waiting for many years for their priority dates to become current. However, it's a good idea to consult an immigration attorney before applying.

Each month, in coordination with DOS, USCIS will monitor visa numbers and post the relevant DOS Visa Bulletin chart. Applicants can use the charts to determine when to file their Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status.

To determine whether additional visas are available, USCIS will compare the number of visas available for the remainder of the fiscal year with:
  • Documentarily qualified visa applicants reported by DOS;
  • Pending adjustment of status applications reported by USCIS; and
  • Historical drop off rate (for example, denials, withdrawals, abandonments).
About the Visa Bulletin.

DOS publishes current immigrant visa availability information in a monthly Visa Bulletin. The Visa Bulletin indicates when statutorily limited visas are available to prospective immigrants based on their individual priority date.
  • The priority date is generally the date when the applicant’s relative or employer properly filed the immigrant visa petition on the applicant’s behalf with USCIS. If a labor certification is required to be filed with the applicant’s immigrant visa petition, then the priority date is when the labor certification application was accepted for processing by Department of Labor.
  • Availability of an immigrant visa means eligible applicants are able to take one of the final steps in the process of becoming U.S. permanent residents. 

Read more here.  

0 Comments

August 17, 2015 USCIS Memo: New L-1B Visa Adjudications Policy for Intracompany Transferees with Specialized Knowledge.

9/3/2015

0 Comments

 
Picture
On August 17 2015, USCIS published L-1B adjudications policy memorandum. New memo provides guidance on the adjudication of the L-1B classification, which permits multinational companies to transfer employees who possess "specialized knowledge" from their foreign operations to their operations in the United States. 

New memo provides consolidated guidance on the L-1B program, superseding and rescinding all prior L-1B memoranda. This memo applies only to L-1B visas/employees with specialized knowledge (not L-1A visas).

"Preponderance of the Evidence" Standard of Proof: a petitioner seeking approval of the L-1B visa, must establish that they meets each eligibility requirement of the L-1B classification by preponderance of evidence. This standard of proof is lower than that of "clear and convincing evidence" or "beyond a reasonable doubt" standards. 

Elements of the L-1B Classification:

In order to establish eligibility for approval, the L-1B petitioner must show: 
(1) that the beneficiary possesses “specialized knowledge”; 
(2) that the position offered involves the “specialized knowledge” held by the beneficiary; and 
(3) that the beneficiary has at least one continuous year of employment abroad in a managerial, executive, or specialized knowledge capacity with the petitioning employer and/or any qualifying organization (collectively referred to as the “petitioning organization”) within the preceding 3 years. 

If the beneficiary will be located primarily at the workplace of an unaffiliated company, the petitioner also must establish that the beneficiary is eligible for L-1B classification under the requirements of the L-1 Visa Reform Act, discussed below in section VI.

The new memo provides definition of "specialized knowledge".

A petitioner can demonstrate “specialized knowledge” by establishing either one of two statutory criteria. Under the statute, a beneficiary is deemed to have specialized knowledge if he or she has: 
(1) a “special” knowledge of the company product and its application in international markets; or 
(2) an “advanced” level of knowledge of the processes and procedures of the company. 
INA 214(c)(2)(B). 

The corresponding regulation similarly defines specialized knowledge in terms of “special” or “advanced” knowledge:
[S]pecial knowledge possessed by an individual of the petitioning organization’s product, service, research, equipment, techniques, management, or other interests and its application in international markets, or an advanced level of knowledge or expertise in the organization’s processes and procedures.
8 CFR 214.2(l)(1)(ii)(D).

Other important things to keep in mind:
>>Specialized knowledge generally cannot be commonly held, lacking in complexity, or easily imparted to other individuals. 
>>Specialized knowledge need not be proprietary or unique to the petitioning organization. 
>>The L-1B classification does not involve a test of the U.S. labor market.
>>Specialized knowledge workers need not occupy managerial or similar positions or command higher compensation than their peers.

The memo notes the following "non-exhaustive" list of factors USCIS may consider when determining whether a beneficiary’s knowledge is specialized:
  • The beneficiary possesses knowledge of foreign operating conditions that is of significant value to the petitioning organization's U.S. operations.
  • The beneficiary has been employed abroad in a capacity involving assignments that have significantly enhanced the employer's productivity, competitiveness, image, or financial position.
  • The beneficiary's claimed specialized knowledge normally can be gained only through prior experience with the petitioning organization.
  • The beneficiary possesses knowledge of a product or process that cannot be easily transferred or taught to another individual without significant economic cost or inconvenience (because, for example, such knowledge may require substantial training, work experience, or education).
  • The beneficiary has knowledge of a process or a product that either is sophisticated or complex, or of a highly technical nature, although not necessarily unique to the petitioning organization.
  • The beneficiary possesses knowledge that is particularly beneficial to the petitioning organization's competitiveness in the marketplace.

Other evidence that a petitioner may submit to demonstrate that an individual’s knowledge is special or advanced, includes, but is not limited to:
• Documentation of training, work experience, or education establishing the number of years the individual has been using or developing the claimed specialized knowledge as an employee of the petitioning organization or in the industry;
• Evidence of the impact, if any, the transfer of the individual would have on the petitioning organization’s U.S. operations;
• Evidence that the alien is qualified to contribute significantly to the U.S. operation’s knowledge of foreign operating conditions as a result of knowledge not generally found in the petitioning organization’s U.S. operations;
• Contracts, statements of work, or other documentation that shows that the beneficiary possesses knowledge that is particularly beneficial to the petitioning organization’s competitiveness in the marketplace;
• Evidence, such as correspondence or reports, establishing that the beneficiary has been employed abroad in a capacity involving assignments that have significantly enhanced the petitioning organization’s productivity, competitiveness, image, or financial position;
• Personnel or in-house training records that establish that the beneficiary’s claimed specialized knowledge normally can be gained only through prior experience or training with the petitioning organization;
• Curricula and training manuals for internal training courses, financial documents, or other evidence that may demonstrate that the beneficiary possesses knowledge of a product or process that cannot be transferred or taught to another individual without significant economic cost or inconvenience;
*Evidence of patents, trademarks, licenses, or contracts awarded to the petitioning organization based on the beneficiary’s work, or similar evidence that the beneficiary has knowledge of a process or a product that either is sophisticated or complex, or of a highly technical nature, although not necessarily proprietary or unique to the petitioning organization; and
• Payroll documents, federal or state wage statements, documentation of other forms of compensation, resumes, organizational charts, or similar evidence documenting the positions held and the compensation provided to the beneficiary and parallel employees in the petitioning organization.

A petitioner may submit any other evidence it chooses. In all cases, USCIS will review the entire record to determine whether the petitioner has established by a preponderance of the evidence that the beneficiary has specialized knowledge under the totality of the circumstances. Merely stating that a beneficiary’s knowledge is somehow different from others or greatly developed does not, in and of itself, establish that he or she possesses specialized knowledge. Ultimately, it is the weight and type of evidence that establishes whether the beneficiary possesses specialized knowledge.

USCIS can issue a RFE (Request for Evidence) for various reasons to I-129 Petitioner. Denial rate is high, RFE rate is even higher for L-1B petition. The new memo is intended to help to solve many difficulties with obtaining a L-1B visa for qualifying applicants.

See August 17, 2015 memo at http://www.uscis.gov/sites/default/files/USCIS/Laws/Memoranda/2015/L-1B_Memorandum_8_14_15_draft_for_FINAL_4pmAPPROVED.pdf

0 Comments

Как не стать жертвой мошенников, и почему не стоит рассчитывать на бесплатную юридическую консультацию. How to avoid legal and immigration scams, and about danger of

6/25/2015

0 Comments

 
PictureОстап Бендер
In Russian: 

Российская газета "Новые Известия" опубликовала дельную статью про опасность "бесплатных юридических консультаций". Журналисты проинтервьюировали некоторых моих московских партнеров и коллег. 

Как известно, бесплатный сыр бывает только в мышеловке. Ты получаешь то, за что заплатил.

Хороший компетентный и этический адвокат НЕ будет предоставлять консультацию (давать юридический совет) бесплатно. В оказании юридических услуг самое главное - это получить правильный совет и знать что делать и как поступить.  

Среди "юридических фирм" и "иммиграционных консультантов" попадается немало мошенников или недобросовестных и малограмотных "специалистов". Особенно много вебсайтов на интернете, которые в поисковике выходят в самом начале как реклама (так как вебсайт платит за такое выгодное размещение) и нелицензированных "иммиграционных консультантов" или "нотариусов", которые предлагают "первую" консультацию бесплатно и готовы перезвонить потенциальному клиенту в течение 5 минут. Что следует дальше, об этом люди не задумываются. А им навязывается контракт на завышенную сумму, с ненужными сервисами или предлагаются ненужные или вредные для дела действия (которые дорого стоят). После предоставления бесплатной консультации, такому специалисту ведь нужно как-то заработать на клиенте (на которого было потрачено время) -- если уж не брать оплату за консультацию, то ее используют как ловушку для доверчивых граждан, готовых повестись на обман.

Следует иметь в виду, что хороший опытный адвокат не будет и не имеет права давать "гарантии" успеха или гарантии выигрыша вашего дела. Опытный адвокат ценит свое и ваше время, и для того, чтобы проконсультировать клиента ей/ему нужно изучить ваши обстоятельства и проанализировать возможные варианты и осложнения перед тем как давать платный (ни в коем случае не бесплатный совет). 

Хорошая статья обо всем этом в Новых Известиях, с консультациями моих Московских партнеров и коллег.


0 Comments

Common Immigration Scams: helpful tips from USCIS how to avoid becoming a victim of immigration fraud or scam.

6/16/2015

0 Comments

 
PictureImmigration scam by a local business.
On November 20, 2014, the President announced a series of executive actions. However, not all of these initiatives have been implemented, and USCIS is not accepting any DAPA or expanded DACA applications at this time. 

Beware of anyone who offers to help you submit an application or a request for any of these actions before they are available. You could become a victim of an immigration scam. 

If you need legal advice on immigration matters, make sure that the person you rely on is an attorney who is authorized to give you legal advice. Only an attorney or an accredited representative working for a Board of Immigration Appeals-recognized organization can give you legal advice. An immigration attorney can be licensed in any state because immigration law is federal law. It's important to consult an experienced and knowledgeable attorney before submitting any immigration applications.

The Internet, newspapers, radio, community bulletin boards and local businesses storefronts are filled with advertisements offering immigration help. Not all of this information is from attorneys and accredited representatives. There is a lot of information that comes from organizations and individuals who are not authorized to give you legal advice, such as “notarios” and other unauthorized representatives. The wrong help can hurt. Here is some important information that can help you avoid common immigration scams.

Here are some examples of common immigration scams:

**Telephone Scams**.

Do not fall victim to telephone scammers posing as USCIS personnel or other government officials. In most instances, scammers will:
  • request personal information (Social Security number, Passport number, or A-number);
  • identify false problems with your immigration record; and
  • ask for payment to correct the records.
If a scammer calls you, say “No, thank you” and hang up. These phone calls are being made by immigration scammers attempting to take your money and your credit card information. USCIS will not call you to ask for any form of payment over the phone. Don’t give payment over the phone to anyone who claims to be a USCIS official.

If you have been a victim of this telephone scam, please report it to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). Learn more about telephone scams and telephone scammers’ techniques by visiting Federal Trade Commission-Telemarketing-Scams. 

**"Notario Publico"**.

In many Latin American countries, the term “notario publico” (for “notary public”) stands for something very different than what it means in the United States. In many Spanish-speaking nations, “notarios” are powerful attorneys with special legal credentials. In the U.S., however, notary publics are people appointed by state governments to witness the signing of important documents and administer oaths. "Notarios publico,” are not authorized to provide you with any legal services related to immigration.

Please see the National Notary Association website "What is a Notary Public" for more information.

**Local Businesses who are not law firms and not attorneys or lawyers**.

Some businesses in your community “guarantee” they can get you benefits such as a:
  • Visa
  • Green Card
  • Employment Authorization Document
These businesses sometimes charge you a higher fee to file the application than even a licensed attorney (but will tell you that attorneys charge more "for the same work"). They claim they can do this faster than if you applied directly with USCIS. These claims are false. 

**Dot-com websites - operated by non-attorneys or people not authorized to give legal advice**.

Some websites offering step-by-step guidance on completing a USCIS application or petition will claim to be affiliated with USCIS. Many of these websites are scammers or fraudsters, often taking money for blank forms or minimal assistance without attorney supervision.

USCIS has its own official website: www.uscis.gov with:
  • Free downloadable forms
  • Form Instructions
  • Information on filing fees and processing times
Do not pay for blank USCIS forms either in person or over the Internet. You can download forms for free at www.uscis.gov.

Do not pay to a non-attorney (not a lawyer) for help with immigration paperwork, applications, affidavit. Oftentimes, they give you wrong advice and can potentially damage your chances of ever becoming a permanent resident (getting a green card).

**Green Card Lottery or DV Lottery scams**.

Once a year in fall, the Department of State (DOS) makes 50,000 diversity visas (DVs) available via random selection to persons meeting strict eligibility requirements and who come from countries with low rates of immigration to the United States. During this time or often around the year, it is common for immigration scammers to advertise in emails or websites that reference either the:
  • DV lottery
  • Visa lottery
  • Green Card lottery
These emails and websites often claim that they can make it easier to enter the annual Diversity Immigrant Visa Program. Some scammers even identify you as a DV lottery “winner” and ask for significant amount of money "helping get a visa". These emails and websites are fraudulent. 

The only way to apply for the DV lottery is through an official government application process (Department of State website, and only when it's open, during an application period which is usually in October-November only). DOS does not send emails to applicants. 

On or after May 1st, you can visit the Department of State website to verify if you are actually a winner in the DV lottery. 

If need help, consult a licensed attorney (not one of the "green card lottery" websites).

**INS doesn't exist. It's been replaced by DHS and USCIS**.

To this day, some local businesses, websites, "notarios"  and individuals make reference to the Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS). This agency no longer exists! 

If someone refers to USCIS as "INS", it's a sign that they are not an attorney, but rather someone unqualified with little knowledge in immigration matters.

INS was dismantled on March 1, 2003, and most of its functions were transferred from the Department of Justice to three new components within the newly formed Department of Homeland Security. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is the component that grants immigration benefits. The other two components are U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and U.S. Customs and Border Protection.

All official correspondence regarding your immigration case will come from USCIS. USCIS will communicate with you and your attorney by mail, by mailing you notices, approved work permit and green card through USPS (postal service).

If you need a legal assistance, we will be glad to help. Our contact information is here.

Read here. 





0 Comments

On May 29, 2015, U.S. Department of State officially rescinded Cuba's designation as a state sponsor of terrorism. 

5/29/2015

0 Comments

 
Picture
Big news for Cuba: on May 29, 2015, U.S. Department of State rescinded Cuba's designation as a state sponsor of terrorism. 

Cuba’s removal from the list of countries – now confined only to Iran, Sudan and Syria – is an important step in Obama's administration effort to move past the Cold War era hostility. 

In December 2014, the President instructed the Secretary of State to immediately launch a review of Cuba’s designation as a State Sponsor of Terrorism, and provide a report to him within six months regarding Cuba’s support for international terrorism. On April 8, 2015, the Secretary of State completed that review and recommended to the President that Cuba no longer be designated as a State Sponsor of Terrorism.

Accordingly, on April 14, 2015, the President submitted to Congress the statutorily required report indicating the Administration’s intent to rescind Cuba’s State Sponsor of Terrorism designation, including the certification that Cuba has not provided any support for international terrorism during the previous six-months; and that Cuba has provided assurances that it will not support acts of international terrorism in the future. 

The 45-day Congressional pre-notification period has expired, and the Secretary of State has made the final decision to rescind Cuba’s designation as a State Sponsor of Terrorism, effective today, May 29, 2015.

The rescission of Cuba’s designation as a State Sponsor of Terrorism reflects our assessment that Cuba meets the statutory criteria for rescission. While the United States has significant concerns and disagreements with a wide range of Cuba’s policies and actions, these fall outside the criteria relevant to the rescission of a State Sponsor of Terrorism designation.


Read at: http://m.state.gov/md242986.htm

0 Comments

Nebraska to start issuing driver's licenses to young immigrants who were granted deferred action under DACA program which is in effect since 2012.

5/28/2015

0 Comments

 
Picture
Nebraska will start issuing driver's licenses to DREAMers or young people who were granted deferred action under DACA  ("DACA grantees"). 

Nebraska is the last state to join the other 49 states who are already issuing driver's licenses to young people with approved DACA deferred action. This program has been in effect since 2012.

On Tuesday, Nebraska Legislature overrode Governor's veto on this bill by 34 to 10 vote.

Read here. 

0 Comments

Pending court case can affect Presidential elections in 2016. Issue is whether it’s legal to hold in ICE detention facilities women and children, including unaccompanied minors, who have crossed the border illegally.

5/20/2015

0 Comments

 
Picture
Obama administration’s immigration policy faces a shake-up next week—and the court’s ruling could reverberate in the 2016 presidential campaign.

At issue is whether it’s legal to essentially lock up women and children who have crossed the border illegally, part of the administration’s response to summer 2014 unaccompanied-minors crisis. 

Lawyers for some of these families sued the government, and last month, a U.S. District judge in Los Angeles issued a tentative ruling, a summary of which was obtained by Newsweek, stating that the administration policy violates a settlement in a 1997 immigration case, Flores v. Meese.

Judge gave the two sides 30 days to negotiate an agreement that would lead the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agency to release the minors and their parents from the family detention centers where they are being held. Those 30 days run out on Sunday, May 24, 2015.

The judge issued a gag order, so it’s quite difficult to know whether or not there will be a real settlement by May 25, 2015. 

Obama’s detention and deportation of hundreds of thousands of undocumented immigrants remains a sore spot for immigrant rights and Latino activists, even after the president granted a reprieve, via executive order and under DACA program, to millions of young people who came to the United States as children and to those who have children who were born here and thus are American citizens (DAPA, which is not effective yet, pending another court case). 

The practice of holding thousands of women and their children in detention for many months—it’s just mothers and their kids in these detention facilities (in Texas and Pennsylvania), most of them fleeing dire circumstances in Central America—has prompted a particularly strong backlash.

Immigrant rights groups have been very critical of this practice.

Read more at Newsweek. 




0 Comments
    Schedule consultation
    cards
    Powered by paypal
    Email your questions
    To people seeking legal advice, guidance and help, we offer remote consultations over the phone, Zoom, or video call. 

    Author

    Luba Smal is an attorney exclusively practicing USA federal immigration law since 2004.  She speaks English and Russian. 

    To ask questions or to schedule consultation, please email or use our scheduling app.

    List of our links.

    We have useful FREE RESOURCES: 

    Our YouTube Channel.

    Facebook Page in English &

    Facebook Page in English and Russian

    Picture

    Archives

    May 2025
    April 2025
    March 2025
    February 2025
    January 2025
    December 2024
    September 2024
    August 2024
    July 2024
    June 2024
    May 2024
    April 2024
    March 2024
    February 2024
    January 2024
    December 2023
    November 2023
    October 2023
    September 2023
    August 2023
    July 2023
    June 2023
    May 2023
    April 2023
    March 2023
    February 2023
    January 2023
    December 2022
    November 2022
    October 2022
    September 2022
    August 2022
    July 2022
    June 2022
    May 2022
    April 2022
    March 2022
    February 2022
    January 2022
    December 2021
    November 2021
    October 2021
    September 2021
    August 2021
    June 2021
    May 2021
    April 2021
    March 2021
    February 2021
    January 2021
    December 2020
    November 2020
    October 2020
    September 2020
    August 2020
    July 2020
    June 2020
    May 2020
    April 2020
    March 2020
    January 2020
    November 2019
    October 2019
    September 2019
    August 2019
    July 2019
    June 2019
    May 2019
    April 2019
    March 2019
    February 2019
    January 2019
    December 2018
    November 2018
    October 2018
    September 2018
    August 2018
    July 2018
    June 2018
    May 2018
    April 2018
    February 2018
    January 2018
    December 2017
    November 2017
    October 2017
    September 2017
    August 2017
    July 2017
    June 2017
    May 2017
    April 2017
    March 2017
    February 2017
    January 2017
    December 2016
    November 2016
    October 2016
    September 2016
    August 2016
    July 2016
    June 2016
    May 2016
    April 2016
    March 2016
    February 2016
    January 2016
    December 2015
    November 2015
    October 2015
    September 2015
    June 2015
    May 2015
    April 2015
    March 2015
    February 2015
    January 2015

    Categories

    All
    10 Year Ban
    10-year Ban
    10 Year Visa
    10-year Visa
    180-day Rule
    2020 DV Lottery
    212(a)(6)(C)
    212e
    2 Year Home Residency Requirement
    30-60 Day Rule
    30-60 Days Rule
    3 Year Ban
    50/20
    55/15
    5th Amendment
    65/20
    8 CFR
    90 Day Rule
    90-day Rule
    90 Days Rule
    9 Circuit
    9 FAM
    9 FAM 40.103
    9 FAM 402.9
    9 FAM 42.41 Notes
    9 FAM 42.74 N1
    9 Fam 502.6
    9th Circuit
    Aao
    Ab 60
    Ab60
    Ab 60 Driver's License
    Abandonment
    Abuse
    Abuser
    Ac21
    Accommodations
    Acquire Citizenship
    Address
    ADIT
    Adjustment Of Status
    Adjustment Of Status Interview
    Administrative Appeals Office
    Administrative Processing
    Admission
    Admission Record
    Adoption
    Adoption Of Child
    Advance Parole
    Advice
    Advise
    Advisory
    Affidavit Of Support
    Afghanistan
    Airport
    Alcohol-related
    Alert
    Alien
    Alien Of Extraordinary Ability
    Alien Registration
    American Citizen
    American Citizenship
    Amicus Curiae Brief
    Annual Cap
    Appeal
    Application Fee
    Application For Naturalization
    Application For Visa To Russia
    Appointment
    Approval Rate
    Aquisition
    AR-11
    Arerst
    Army
    Arrest Order
    Asc Uscis
    Assets Freeze
    Asylee
    Asylum
    Attorney
    Attorney-client Privilege
    Attorney General
    Attorney Smal
    Au Pair
    Australian
    A Visa
    B 1
    B-1
    B1
    B 1 Visa
    B-1 Visa
    B 2
    B-2
    B2
    B2 Visa
    Bachelor's Degree
    Backlog
    Ban
    Bar
    Belarus
    Bia
    Biden
    Bill
    Biometrics
    Birth Certificate
    Birth Of Child Abroad
    Birth Tourism
    Board Of Immigration Appeals
    Bona Fide
    Border Search
    Brazil
    Brother
    Business Visa
    Business Visitor Visa
    Cable
    California
    Canada
    Canadian Citizen
    Canadian Resident
    Cancellation Of Removal
    Cancelled
    Cap-gap
    Carrier Documentation
    Case Inquiry
    CBP
    CBP Home
    CBPHome
    CBP One
    CBPOne
    Cell Phone
    Certificate Of Citizenship
    Certificate Of Naturalization
    Change Of Address
    Change Of Status
    Child
    Child Of A Fiance
    Children
    China
    Chinese Birth Tourism
    Cities For Action
    Citizenship
    Civics
    Civil Surgeon
    Civil Unrest
    Class Action
    College
    Common Immigration Scam
    Complaint
    Compliance
    Conditional Green Card
    Confidential And Privileged
    Confidentiality
    Congress
    Constitution
    Consul
    Consular Processing
    Consulate
    Consultation
    Contact
    Conviction
    Coronavirus
    COS
    Court
    Court Hearing
    Court Of Appeals
    Court Order
    Covid
    COVID19
    CR-1
    Crime
    Criminal
    Criminal Case
    CSPA
    Cuba
    Cuban Assets Control Regulations
    Current
    Daca
    Dapa
    Declaration Of Financial Support
    Declaration Of Self Sufficiency
    DED
    Deferred Action
    Deferred Action For Childhood Arrivals
    Deferred Action For Parental Accountability
    Deferred Action For Parents Of Americans And Lawful Permanent Residents
    Deferred Inspection
    Denaturalization
    Denial
    Denial Rate
    Department Of Defense
    Department Of Homeland Security
    Department Of Justice
    Department Of State
    Dependent
    Dependent Visa
    Deportation
    Deported
    Derivative
    Derivative Citizenship
    Derivative Citizenship Chart
    Designated Civil Surgeon
    Designation As A State Sponsor Of Terrorism
    Dhanasar
    DHS
    Diploma
    Directive
    Director
    Disability
    Discretion
    Diversity Visa
    Divorce
    Dmv
    DNA
    DNA Test
    DOJ
    DOL
    Domestic Violence
    Dos
    Dream Act
    Dreamers
    Driver's License
    Drug Addiction
    Drug Conviction
    DS 160
    DS-160
    DS 260
    DS-260
    DS260
    DSO
    Dual Citizen
    DUI
    Dutch State
    Dv
    Dv 2016
    DV-2016
    Dv2016 Lottery
    Dv 2017
    Dv2017
    DV 2017 Lottery
    DV-2017 Lottery
    Dv 2017 Program
    DV 2018
    DV 2019
    DV-2019
    DV 2020
    DV-2020
    DV 2021
    DV 2022
    DV 2023 Lottery
    DV 2024
    DV 2024 Lottery
    DV 2025
    DV2025
    DV 2025 Lottery
    DV Lottery
    DV Lottery 2021
    DV Lottery Rules
    Dv Lottery Selectee
    Dv Visa
    DWI
    E-1
    E1
    E 1 Visa
    E-1 Visa
    E-2
    E2
    E2 Treaty Investor
    E 2 Visa
    E-2 Visa
    E-3
    E3 Visa
    Ead
    Ead Sample
    Eb 1
    EB-1
    Eb1
    EB2
    EB-3
    Eb3
    EB4
    EB 5
    EB-5
    Eb5
    Eb5 Investor
    Ecuador
    Elections
    Electronic Application
    Electronic Device
    Electronics Ban
    El Salvador
    Embassy
    Emergency
    Employer
    Employment Authorization
    Employment Based
    Employment-based
    Enforcement
    Engineer
    English Exemption
    Enhanced Screening
    Entrepreneur
    Eoir
    EOS
    ESTA
    ETA
    ETIAS
    Eu
    Europe
    Evacuation
    E-Verify
    EVerify
    Evidence
    Exceptional Circumstances
    Exchange Visitor
    Executive Action On Immigration
    Executive Order
    Exemption
    Expanded Daca
    Expat
    Expatriate
    Expedite
    Expedited Removal
    Expedited Renewal
    Extension Of Status
    Extention
    Extraordinary Abilities Or Achievements
    Extreme Hardship Waiver
    Extreme Vetting
    F 1
    F-1
    F-1
    F1
    F1 Visa
    F2
    F2A
    Facial Biometrics
    Facial Recognition
    Family Based
    Family-based
    Family Reunification
    Fatca
    Fbi
    Federal Court
    Federal Crime
    Federal District Court
    Federal Lawsuit
    Federal Register
    Fee Calculator
    Fees
    Fee Schedule
    Fee Waiver
    Felony
    Femida
    Fiancee
    Fiancee Visa
    Fiance Visa
    Field Office
    Filing Fee
    Final Rule
    Fingerprint
    Flores V Meese
    FOIA
    Following To Join
    Forced Labor
    Foreign
    Foreign Adoption
    Foreign Student
    Form 6051-D
    Fraud
    Fraudulent Asylum
    Free Attorney
    Freedom Of Information Act
    Free Education
    Free Lawyer
    Free Legal Advice
    Free Legal Consultation
    Free Online University
    FY 2019
    FY 2020
    FY 2021
    G-1450
    G1450
    G 28
    G-28
    G28
    G325R
    G-639
    Gay Marriage
    Gaza
    Gender
    German Law
    Germany
    GMC
    Gold Card
    Goldcard
    Good Moral Character
    @gov
    Grant
    Green Card
    Greencard
    Green Card Interview
    Green Card Lost
    Green Card Lottery
    Green Card Lottery Winner
    Green Card Through Marriage To A Us Citizen
    Guide
    G Visa
    H-1
    H1
    H-1B
    H-1b
    H1b
    H1B Cap
    H1b Visa
    H2B
    H-2 Visa
    H-4
    H4
    H 4 Spouse
    H-4 Spouse
    Haiti
    Hardship
    HART
    Health Insurance
    Health Related
    Health-related
    High School
    Home Residency Requirement
    Honduras
    How To
    How To Apply For A Passport
    How To Apply For ITIN
    How To Apply For Us Passport In Omaha
    Humanitarian
    Humanitarian Parole
    Humanitarian Relief
    Human Trafficking
    H Visa
    I-129
    I129
    I-129F
    I-130
    I130
    I-130A
    I130 At Consulate Abroad
    I 130 Petition For A Sibling
    I-130 Petition For A Sibling
    I 130 Petition For A Spouse In Same Sex Marriage
    I-130 Petition For A Spouse In Same Sex Marriage
    I 130 Priority Date
    I-130 Priority Date
    I-131
    I131
    I131A
    I134
    I134A
    I 140
    I-140
    I140
    I212
    I290B
    I360
    I-407
    I407
    I 485
    I-485
    I485
    I485 Pending
    I512T
    I539
    I551
    I589
    I 601
    I-601
    I-601
    I601
    I-601A
    I601a
    I693
    I730
    I 751
    I-751
    I751
    I765
    I-765V
    I821
    I-864
    I864
    I864P
    I9
    I90
    I907
    I912
    I918
    I-94
    I94
    I944
    ICE
    ICE Detainer
    ICE Raid
    Id
    Illegal
    ILRC
    IMBRA
    Immigrant
    Immigrant Intent
    Immigrant Investor
    Immigrant Visa
    Immigration
    Immigration Advice
    Immigration Attorney
    Immigration Case
    Immigration Court
    Immigration Fraud
    Immigration Judge
    Immigration Lawyer
    Immigration Links
    Immigration Medical
    Immigration Raid
    Immigration Reform
    Immigration Relief Measures
    Immigration Rights
    Immigration Scam
    INA 203(b)(1)(A)
    INA 212(A)(10)(C)
    INA 212(a)(6)
    INA 212(a)(9)(B)
    INA 212(d)(3)(A)
    INA 262
    Inadmissibility
    Inadmissibility Ground
    Indentured Servitude
    India
    Individual Hearing
    Ineffective Assistance Of Counsel
    Injunction
    Intelligence
    Internal Revenue Service
    International Adoption
    International Child Abduction
    International Child Abduction Inadmissibility
    International Entrepreneur
    International Entrepreneur Rule
    International Student
    Interpretation
    Interpreter
    Interview
    Investigation
    Investor Visa
    Iowa
    Iraq
    IRS
    Islam
    ITIN
    IV
    J1
    J1 Visa
    Job Relocation
    Judge
    K 1
    K-1
    K1
    K 1 Visa
    K-1 Visa
    K-2
    K2
    K 2 Visa
    K-2 Visa
    K3
    K 3 Visa
    K-3 Visa
    K4
    K 4 Visa
    K-4 Visa
    Kazakhstan
    Kazarian
    Kcc
    Kentucky Consular Center
    Know Your Rights
    KZ
    L1b Adjudications Policy
    L 1b Person With Specialized Knowledge
    L-1B Person With Specialized Knowledge
    L 1b Visa
    L-1B Visa
    L1 Visa
    Laptop Ban
    Law Enforcement
    Lawful Permanent Resident
    Lawsuit
    Lawyer
    Legal Advice
    Legal Consultation
    Legitimated Child
    Links
    List Of Seven
    List Of Six
    Lost Or Stolen
    Lottery Winner
    LPR
    L Supplement
    Luba Smal
    Mandatory Detention
    Manual
    Marijuana
    Marquez
    Marriage
    Marriage-based
    Marriage Broker
    Marriage Fraud
    Maternity Tourism
    Matricula Consular
    Matter
    Matter Of Cross
    MAVNI
    Medical
    Medical Exam
    Memorandum
    Merit Based
    Merit-based
    Mexico
    Military Naturalization
    Military Service
    Misrepresentation
    Moscow
    Motion
    Muslim
    Muslim Ban
    M Visa
    MyProgress
    Myuscis
    N336
    N-400
    N-400
    N400
    N-600
    N600
    N648
    National Interest Waiver
    National Security
    National Visa Center
    Natural Disaster
    Naturalization
    Naturalization Test
    Natz
    Navy
    NE
    Nebraska
    Nebraska Immigration Attorney
    Nebraska Immigration Lawyer
    Nepal
    Nepal Earthquake
    Newborn
    New Form
    New Rule
    Nicaragua
    Niv Waiver
    NIW
    Nobel Prize
    No Eyeglasses Policy
    Noid
    NOIR
    Nonimmigrant
    Nonimmigrant Visa
    Notario
    Notario Public
    Notario Scam
    Notary
    Notice Of Entry Of Appearance As Attorney
    Notice To Appear
    NSC
    NTA
    Nurse
    Nvc
    O 1b Visa
    O-1B Visa
    OIG
    Omaha
    Omaha Attorney
    Omaha Immigration Attorney
    Omaha Immigration Lawyer
    Omaha Lawyer
    Ombudsman
    OPT
    Order Of Removal
    Out Of Status
    Out Of Wedlock
    Overstay
    O Visa
    Palestine
    Pamphlet
    Pandemic
    Parole
    Parolee
    Parole In Place
    Passport
    Passport Agency
    Passport Application
    Penalty
    Permanent Resident
    Permanent Resident Card
    Petition
    Petition To Remove Conditions
    Phone Scam
    Photo
    Pickering
    Pilot
    PIP
    POA
    Point-based
    Police Certificate
    Policy
    Policy Guidance
    Policy Manual
    Political Asylum
    Port Of Entry
    Post-conviction Relief
    Post Office
    Potomac
    Poverty Guidelines
    Power Of Attorney
    Practice Advisory
    Precedent
    Premium Processing
    President
    Presidential Elections 2016
    Priority Date
    Process For Venezuelans
    Processing Times
    Proclamation
    Program
    Proper Id
    Proposed Rule
    Prostitution
    Protected Status
    Provisional Waiver
    Public Benefits
    Public Charge
    Public Health
    Published Decision
    P Visa
    R-1
    R-1 Visa
    Racehorse Trainer
    Raid
    Real Id
    Real Id Act
    Reasons Beyond Applicant's Control
    Receipt
    Reentry
    Reentry Permit
    Refugee
    Refugee Travel Document
    Registration
    Reinstatement
    Rejection
    Religious Worker
    Removal
    Renewal
    Renew Passport
    Renounce
    Renounce Us Citizenship
    Reparole
    Request For Evidence
    Retrogression
    Revocation
    RFE
    Right To Counsel
    Russia
    Russian
    Russian Federation
    Russian Visa
    R Visa
    Safe Address
    Same Sex Marriage
    Same-sex Marriage
    Sanctions
    Sanctuary City
    Sanctuary State
    Scam
    Scammer
    Scholarship
    Science
    Scientist
    Search
    Search Order
    SEC
    Sec 101(c)(1)
    Section 106a
    Section 106b
    Secure Communities
    Seizure
    Self Petition
    Self-petition
    Settlement
    Sevis
    Sevp
    Sex-trafficking
    Shutdown
    Sibling
    Signature
    SIJS
    Sister
    SiV
    Skills List
    Smithsonian
    Social Media
    Social Security
    Special Immigrant
    Specialized Knowledge
    Sponsor
    Spouse
    SSA
    SSN
    Startup
    Startup Parole
    State Photo Id
    State Sponsor Of Terrorism
    Statistics
    Stem
    Stepchild
    Stepparent
    Student
    Student Visa
    Supervisory Skills
    Surveillance
    Suspended
    Tax
    Tax Return
    Telephone Scam
    Termination
    Texas
    Texas Department Of Human Services
    Title 42
    Tourist
    Tourist Visa
    TPS
    TRAC
    Translation
    Translator
    Transportation Letter
    Travel
    Travel Advisory
    Travel Authorization
    Travel Ban
    Travel Document
    Travel History
    Travel Itinerary
    Treaty
    Treaty Country
    Treaty Investor
    Treaty Trader
    TSA
    TSC
    T Visa
    U4U
    UAC
    UK
    Ukraine
    ULP
    Unaccompanied Child
    Unaccompanied Minor
    Unauthorized
    Unauthorized Practice Of Law
    Unconditional Permanent Resident
    Undocumented Immigrant
    Undocumented Student
    Undue Hardship
    Unemployment
    Unforeseen Circumstances
    United States
    United States V Texas
    Uniting For Ukraine
    University
    Unlawful
    Unlawful Presence
    Unpublished Decisions
    UPIL
    UPL
    USA
    Usa Birth Certificate
    Usa Citizenship
    Usa Embassy
    Usa Passport
    USCIS
    Uscis Appointment
    Uscis Case Status
    Uscis Fee Schedule
    Uscis Inquiry
    Uscis Memo
    Us Citizen
    Us Citizenship
    Us Department Of State
    Useful Links
    US Embassy
    Us Passport
    Us Supreme Court
    Us V Texas
    U Visa
    Uzbekistan
    Vacated
    Vaccination
    VAWA
    Venezuela
    Vermont
    Vetting
    Victim Of Crime
    Video
    Visa
    Visa Application
    Visa Bulletin
    Visa Denial
    Visa Fee
    Visa For Australian
    Visa Fraud
    Visa Free
    Visa Interview
    Visa Validity Period
    Visa Waiver
    Visa Waiver Program
    Visitor
    Visitor Visa
    VSC
    Vwp
    Waiver
    Waiver Of Inadmissibility
    Warning
    Warrant
    Web Portal
    Webportal
    Widow
    Widower
    Work Permit
    Work Permit Sample
    Work Visa
    Your Rights
    адвокат
    адвокат
    американский юрист
    безвизовый
    Беларусь
    беларусь
    бесплатная консультация
    бесплатная консультация
    бизнес
    бизнесмен
    вейвер
    вейвер
    видео
    вид на жительство
    виза
    виза
    виза в Беларусь
    виза в США
    гостевая виза
    гражданство США
    граница
    граница
    грин карта
    грин карта
    гринкарта
    депортация
    Дханасар
    запрет
    знай свои права
    иммигрант
    иммиграционная виза
    иммиграционный адвокат
    иммиграционный суд
    иммиграционный юрист
    иммиграция
    иммиграция
    инструкции
    интервью
    Казахстан
    консульство
    консульство США
    мошенничество
    Небраска
    Омаха
    Остап Бендер
    пароль
    паспорт
    паспорт США
    пограничный контроль
    политическое убежище
    получение паспорта США
    посольство
    посольство США
    постоянная грин карта
    постоянный житель сша
    разрешение на поездки
    разрешение на работу
    разрешение на работу
    резидент
    скам
    скаммеры
    стартап
    суд
    суд
    США
    туристическая виза
    указ
    указ президента
    условная грин карта
    условный вейвер
    юридическая помощь
    юрист

    Click to set custom HTML

    RSS Feed

Copyright Smal Immigration Law Office. 2005 - 2025. All rights reserved.
Disclaimer: www.law-visa-usa.com/disclaimer.html

​Tel +1-402-210-2040 by appointment only. To schedule a consultation, please use our online scheduler or email at [email protected]
Web Hosting by PowWeb