Jonathan is the proud husband and son of American immigrants. Prior to co-founding ImmigrationHelp.org, Jonathan practiced at two international law firms and graduated from both law school and college at the University of Pennsylvania. He has served as an advisor on international law to both the IMF and the World Bank. In 2017, Jonathan was recognized by FastCase as one of the 50 most innovative leaders in the legal profession. When he isn’t fighting for immigrant rights, Jonathan can be found at the gym, traveling, watching soccer, and reading.
Articles written by Jonathan Petts
Can Undocumented Immigrants Get a Driver’s License?
Written by Jonathan Petts.
Each state decides how and when its residents may obtain a driver’s license. This includes whether or not to issue driver’s licenses to undocumented immigrants. While most states will only grant driving privileges to those with lawful immigration status, some will allow individuals who can’t provide proof of legal presence in the United States to get a driver’s license. The following guide explains when someone traveling to the United States will need to get a state-issued driver’s license and what that process entails. It also covers what limitations undocument immigrants may face when trying to get a driver’s license.
Read More →What Is Asylum and How Does It Work?
Written by Jonathan Petts.
If you are in the U.S. and you can show you’ll be persecuted if you return to your home country, you can ask to remain in the United States by requesting asylum. This requires you, the asylum seeker, to show that you meet the definition of a refugee. There are three ways to apply for asylum: affirmatively, defensively (during a deportation proceeding), or with an Asylum Merits Interview after a positive credible fear determination.
Read More →A Guide To Applying for a U.S. Temporary Visa With Form DS-160
Written by Jonathan Petts.
Form DS-160 is also called the Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application form. Many people applying for temporary U.S. visa classifications like student visas and fiancé visas will have to file Form DS-160 with the U.S. embassy or consulate in their home country to get permission to come to the United States. This article is a guide to Form DS-160. It explains who needs to file the form, the application process, and what happens after filing.
Read More →All About the Dream Act
Written by Jonathan Petts.
Millions of undocumented immigrant youth called Dreamers live in the United States without legal status. A series of proposed laws, called the DREAM Act, could fix this problem by giving Dreamers a pathway to lawful status and, eventually, citizenship. Since 2001, the DREAM Act has never passed into law. But the DREAM Act’s most recent version was approved by the House of Representatives on March 18, 2021 and could go to a vote before the Senate. If you're looking to learn more about the history and future of the DREAM Act, this article has you covered!
Read More →What Is Form I-751, Petition To Remove Conditions on Residence?
Written by Jonathan Petts.
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services(USCIS) will give you a conditional green card if your marriage was less than two years old when you applied for permanent residence. Conditional green cards are not valid for as long as regular green cards. You will have to eventually ask U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to remove the conditions on your card so that you can have access to your permanent resident benefits on a long-term basis. This article explains Form I-751: Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence, when to file it, how to file it, and what to expect after filing it with the U.S. government.
Read More →Current Visa Bulletin (December 2023)
Written by ImmigrationHelp News Team. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
There were no changes in wait times for any family- or employment-based green card application categories in December compared to last month (November).
Read More →How To Get a Copy of Your Marriage Certificate for Your Green Card Application
Written by Jonathan Petts.
Every couple must provide evidence of a valid marriage involving a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident to complete their marriage green card application. This article explains how to get a copy of your marriage certificate for your application, which alternative documents you can submit, and what to do if there’s no legal record of your marriage.
Read More →How To Track Your USCIS Application Status
Written by Jonathan Petts.
Whether you’re applying for a work permit, a green card, or another immigration status, you have several ways to track your application status with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The easiest way to track your application status is on USCIS.gov through the case status online tracker tool or through your myUSCIS account. You can also check your case status by calling USCIS or mailing an inquiry. No matter how you decide to check your status, you’ll need your receipt number — the unique 13-character code USCIS sent you in a receipt notice after it accepted your application. This article explains how to check the status of your case online, by mail, or by phone.
Read More →6 Tips To Afford USCIS Filing Fees
Written by Jonathan Petts.
For many low-income people, navigating the U.S. immigration system is overwhelmingly expensive. In addition to lawyer fees, you must also pay application processing fees to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This money adds up rather quickly. This article suggests six tips to cut costs and raise money for your immigration application.
Read More →A Guide to the M-1 Visa for Vocational Students
Written by Jonathan Petts.
There are different visa categories for foreign students who wish to pursue an education in the United States. If you would like to receive vocational training in the United States, you may be able to do so with an M-1 visa if you can meet the requirements. This article explains what the M-1 visa is, who can apply for it, and how to apply. It also answers some frequently asked questions about the student visa.
Read More →How To Expedite Your Immigration Application
Written by Jonathan Petts.
During the immigration application process, your situation may suddenly change in a way that makes you need to hear back from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) on your case quickly. If this happens, you may be able to submit a USCIS case expedite request to receive a quicker application decision. There is no fee to make a request. USCIS requires you to meet specific criteria, like extreme humanitarian need or potential harm to a U.S person or company if your application isn’t sped up, in order for them to approve your request. This article explains the situations where you can ask USCIS to expedite your case and provides step-by-step instructions for making an expedited request.
Read More →What Supporting Documents Do You Need To Become a U.S. Citizen?
Written by Jonathan Petts.
Naturalization is the process by which an immigrant to the United States applies for U.S. citizenship. In addition to the Form N-400: Application for Naturalization, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) requires certain supporting documents. You can use this article as a document checklist for the naturalization process.
Read More →October 2023 Visa Bulletin (Archive)
Written by ImmigrationHelp News Team. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
For family-based green card applicants, there were no changes in wait times compared to last month (September). However, wait times decreased for almost employment-based green card applicants. The exception as the EB-5 category where only India and China (main land born) saw a decrease in wait times while every other country in the category saw no change.
Read More →Can a DACA Recipient Get a Green Card Through Marriage?
Written by Jonathan Petts.
The Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program doesn’t yet provide a pathway to lawful permanent residence. But if you’re a DACA recipient and you fall in love with and marry a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, you may be able to get a marriage green card. As a green card holder, you’ll have protection from deportation and long-term employment authorization, meaning you’ll never have to renew your work permit. Getting an immigrant visa is also the first step towards naturalization - the process of gaining U.S. citizenship. But to change your immigration status from DACA recipient to green card holder, you must satisfy certain eligibility requirements. Your green card eligibility will depend largely on how you entered the United States and if you’re married to a U.S. citizen or a permanent resident. This article explains the different ways that DACA recipients can qualify for marriage green cards and how long the process takes.
Read More →How To Get a Green Card Using TPS Adjustment of Status
Written by Jonathan Petts.
While temporary protected status (TPS) allows certain immigrants to live and work in the U.S., this status is not permanent. One of the easiest ways to remain in the U.S. is by using the TPS adjustment of status process to get a green card. Once you have your green card, you’ll no longer need to fear deportation if your TPS status changes or expires because you’ll be a permanent U.S. resident. This article explains the requirements for successfully changing from temporary protected status to permanent U.S. residency.
Read More →Everything You Need To Know About U.S. Work Permits (EADs): What They Are, Who Is Eligible, and How To Apply
Written by Jonathan Petts.
A work permit is an official document from the U.S. government that allows immigrants to work in the United States. It's also known as an Employment Authorization Document or EAD. You do not need to be a permanent resident to get a work permit, but you need to have an immigrant or nonimmigrant visa that allows you to live and work in the United States. DACA recipients can also get work permits. It costs $410 –$495 to apply for a work permit and takes 2-7 months to get one. The cost and timing vary based on your reason for applying as well as where you live.Some applicants don't have to pay the application fee. This article explains everything you need to know about U.S. work permits.
Read More →What Happens at a USCIS Biometrics Appointment?
Written by Jonathan Petts.
The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) requires a biometrics appointment as part of many applications for immigration benefits. This is sometimes called the "fingerprint appointment." At the appointment, the U.S. government will take your fingerprints, pictures, and signature. These are used to run a background check and for identification purposes. Usually, USCIS will schedule a date and time for the biometrics appointment for you, but sometimes you have to schedule it yourself. If you have a conflict, you can attend your scheduled biometrics appointment early or reschedule it for a later, more convenient time. But it’s best to attend at the scheduled time whenever possible.
Read More →How To Get a Bank Loan With DACA: The Complete Guide
Written by Jonathan Petts.
It is generally difficult for Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) recipients to get bank loans — but it's still possible. Many banks and lenders will consider you a high-risk individual because of your status. Many banks consider DACA to be temporary and not guaranteed because DACA is easily affected by U.S. immigration law. However, DACA recipients can borrow from other lenders. You can get personal loans, student loans, and home loans from banks and other lenders. This article explains how to get personal loans, student loans, and home loans as a DACA recipient.
Read More →How To Get an I-94 Extension and Extend Your Stay in the U.S.
Written by Jonathan Petts.
While on a temporary visit to the United States, it is essential to be aware of the terms of your stay. In particular, you should be conscious of your I-94 expiration date. If your I-94 expires before you leave the U.S., you must plan to get an I-94 extension so you don’t break U.S. immigration law. This article explains what the I-94 extension is and how to get one. It also covers what documents are required for an extension and how long it takes for the U.S. government to process your extension request.
Read More →How To Complete Your Education History on a DACA Application
Written by Jonathan Petts.
In 2012, President Obama started the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program. Applicants for DACA must meet certain education requirements. You'll have to provide your education history to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). USCIS asks for your education history to confirm that you qualify for DACA . USCIS also checks your education background to see if you can get a job if they give you a temporary work permit. So, it's very important that you complete the education history part of the form correctly. This article explains the education history section of the DACA application and how to complete it.
Read More →What To Expect at Your Green Card Interview: The Process, the Questions, and What To Bring With You
Written by Jonathan Petts.
Your green card interview will take place at a USCIS field office or U.S. consulate or embassy closest to you, depending on whether you applied from inside or outside the U.S. The interviewing officer will ask you questions about what you put on your application and whether anything has changed between the time you filed and your interview date. This article explains what you need to know about the interview process and how to prepare for it.
Read More →August 2023 Visa Bulletin (Archive)
Written by ImmigrationHelp News Team. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
There were very quite a few changes to the Visa Bulletin for the month of August. For family-based green card applicants from Mexico, wait times for F1 green cards decreased by 2 years and 3 months and F2B green cards decreased by 2 years and 4 months. Regarding employment-based green cards, there were no changes in wait times for EB-2 green cards and EB-4 green cards for applicants from any country. Wait times for employment-based green card applicants from India continue to increase in several categories. - There was over a 10 year increase in wait times for EB-1 Priority Worker applicants from India. This means Indian applicants are waiting over 11 years and 5 months for a chance to get a green card. - There was almost a 3.6 year increase in wait times for EB-3 Skilled Worker applicants from India. These applicants are waiting over 14 years and 4 months to get a chance to apply for a green card.
Read More →What Does the USCIS Case Status “Case Approved” Mean for My Form I-129F Application?
Written by Jonathan Petts.
If your USCIS case status says “Case Was Approved,” congratulations! This status means USCIS has reviewed your Form I-129F application, determined your eligibility, and decided to grant your fiancé visa. You’ll often see several statuses before approval as your case progresses, and it can take a long time for USCIS to process and approve your application. It can take anywhere from 4–22 months for USCIS to process and approve Form I-129F applications. This article explains the case approval process with USCIS and what happens after your case is approved.
Read More →What is President Joe Biden's Immigration Agenda?
Written by Jonathan Petts.
Since taking office, Democratic President Biden and Vice President Harris have directed federal agencies to address immigration far differently than the previous administration. In late January of 2021, the Biden administration announced their new U.S. immigration reform plan, which focuses on increasing access to legal immigration and reforming immigration enforcement.
Read More →A Guide to the F-1 Visa for Study in the United States
Written by Jonathan Petts.
One of the primary reasons for visiting the United States is to study. The United States is home to many of the world's most renowned educational institutions. Every year, scholars from all over the world flock to the country to take advantage of the educational opportunities. You will need a nonimmigrant visa to attend a school in the United States if you're not a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident. This article explains all you should know about the F-1 student visa, including the requirements and application process.
Read More →TPS vs. Asylum: How Do They Compare?
Written by Jonathan Petts.
Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and asylum are both humanitarian provisions of the U.S. Immigration and Nationality Act (INA), but they are not the same thing. Sometimes one status works better than the other for your situation. This article compares the two immigration statuses so you can have a better understanding of which may be most suitable for your purposes.
Read More →How Can My Undocumented Immigrant Spouse Get a Green Card Through Marriage?
Written by Jonathan Petts.
If you are married to an undocumented immigrant, you are not alone. According to the Wall Street Journal, about 1.2 million undocumented immigrants are married to United States citizens. And that number doesn't even include undocumented immigrants married to U.S. permanent residents. Getting a marriage green card protects your spouse from deportation and, as immediate relatives, gives them a path to naturalization. But applying for a marriage green card can be a difficult process. And in most cases, it is even more challenging when your spouse is undocumented. This article will help you weigh the benefits and risks of applying for a marriage green card for your undocumented spouse.
Read More →Form N-600: How To Get a Certificate of Citizenship
Written by Jonathan Petts.
There are many benefits to becoming a U.S. citizen. You can work in federal jobs, vote in state and national elections, and live outside the United States for a prolonged time. You can become a U.S. citizen by birth in the United States, by birth to U.S. citizen parents, or by naturalization. In this article, you'll learn if you can apply for a certificate of citizenship with a Form N-600, what documents you'll need to apply, how much it costs, and how long it takes to get it.
Read More →How To Check the Status of Your U.S. Citizenship Application
Written by Jonathan Petts.
After submitting Form N-400 to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS), an agency of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), your next step will be waiting for updates on your citizenship application. You may check your U.S. citizenship application status in four ways — online, by phone, by mail, or in person. This article explains how to do each.
Read More →What Is the Form I-94 Travel Record?
Written by Jonathan Petts.
Nearly every foreign traveler to the United States has an I-94 travel record (also known as “Form I-94” or “I-94 Form”). U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officials issue an I-94 to foreign travelers entering the United States. CBP officials use the I-94 to track arrivals and departures of non-citizens visiting the United States. This article explains Form I-94 in-depth, including how it is used, how to access yours, and answers to some frequently asked questions.
Read More →How To Obtain Police Reports and Court Records for a Green Card Application
Written by Jonathan Petts.
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) conducts a U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) conducts a background check on every immigration application. If you're applying for a green card and you have had any interactions with U.S. law enforcement, you'll have to disclose your criminal record to USCIS with your application. Generally, it's a good idea to consult with an immigration attorney if you have a criminal record before submitting your green card application. This article explains how to determine if you have a criminal record, where to get a copy of your criminal record, and the step-by-step process to request a copy from U.S. federal and state authorities.
Read More →How To Plan a Courthouse Wedding in the United States
Written by Jonathan Petts.
Traditional wedding ceremonies can be expensive and stressful to plan. A welcome alternative for some couples is the courthouse wedding. A courthouse wedding is sometimes also called a civil wedding, a civil union, or a civil ceremony. Courthouse weddings in the United States are recognized as valid marriages for marriage green card applications. This article explains how to plan a courthouse wedding in six simple steps.
Read More →How Do You Get Advance Parole for Humanitarian Reasons?
Written by Jonathan Petts.
Advance Parole is a travel permit available to certain groups of immigrants to travel abroad and return to the United States without negatively impacting or abandoning their U.S. immigration statuses. With President Biden's executive order to reinstate the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program after the Trump administration halted new applications, many more people can get DACA and, by extension, Advance Parole. Adjustment of status applicants, as well as DACA status and other Temporary Protected Status (TPS) immigrants, can get Advance Parole for humanitarian, educational, or employment purposes. This article explains how to apply for Advance Parole based on humanitarian reasons.
Read More →How To Apply for Citizenship by Naturalization
Written by Jonathan Petts.
If you are a U.S. lawful permanent resident (green card holder) who meets residency and background check requirements, you can apply for citizenship by naturalization. There are many benefits to becoming a U.S. citizen. For example, once you become a U.S. citizen, you will be able to vote in U.S. elections, travel to and from the U.S. as you please, and apply for your eligible family members to receive U.S. green cards. The application process is pretty straightforward. For most people, it costs $725 and takes 7-15 months. This article explains how to apply for U.S. citizenship in seven easy steps.
Read More →How to Get Student Loans with DACA: The Complete Guide
Written by Jonathan Petts.
Paying for school as a non-resident person in the United States can be difficult. Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) recipients are not eligible for any federal funding and may face some challenges in trying to secure funding for their college education. There are, however, alternative resources available to DACA recipients and undocumented students. There is state-level assistance available in some states and a host of private student loans and scholarships that DACA students can get. In this article, we discuss some things to consider as a DACA student applying to colleges and explain whether DACA students can get federal or state assistance, as well as private loans and scholarships.
Read More →What Is Temporary Protected Status (TPS)?
Written by Jonathan Petts.
The secretary of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) grants Temporary Protected Status (TPS) to some foreigners whose home countries are not safe for their return. This article gives an overview of TPS, including its history and benefits for those eligible. The article also covers which countries have TPS, TPS eligibility requirements and application process.
Read More →Can a U.S. Citizen's Widow(er) Get a Marriage Green Card?
Written by Jonathan Petts.
If your American spouse dies suddenly while you're applying for a marriage green card, or if you're considering applying for a marriage green card after your U.S. citizen spouse's death, it is still possible to get a green card. This article explains provisions in U.S. immigration law that allow widows and widowers of U.S. citizens to become lawful permanent residents. We also explain the green card process to follow depending on if you had started the process before your citizen spouse's death and if you're filing from the United States or abroad.
Read More →How Can You Prove Continuous Residence on Your DACA Application?
Written by Jonathan Petts.
When applying for Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA), you'll submit supporting documents with your forms to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Your DACA supporting documents will prove to USCIS that the information you provided on your application is correct and confirm that you qualify to apply for DACA. One of the requirements to qualify for DACA is continuous residence in the United States. This article explains what continuous residence is and what the continuous residence requirement is for DACA. It also discusses the documents you can submit to prove your continuous residence on your DACA application.
Read More →What Is Immigration Form I-360: Petition for Amerasian, Widow(er), or Special Immigrant?
Written by Jonathan Petts.
Form I-360 is a very versatile immigration form. Several classes of immigrants may file this form with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) as part of their green card application process. This article introduces Form I-360, explains its purpose and who can file it, how to file it, and special considerations for VAWA petitioners to keep in mind.
Read More →USCIS Is No Longer Processing New DACA Applications - But You Can Still Apply!
Written by Jonathan Petts.
Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) is a vital immigration program. It allows undocumented immigrants brought to the United States as children (called Dreamers) to live and work in America. DACA status keeps Dreamers free from the constant threat of deportation to unfamiliar countries. Currently, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), the agency responsible for DACA applications, is no longer processing new applications. However, USCIS will accept your application if you choose to send it in. This article will provide a brief legal history of DACA and explain why USCIS is accepting but not processing applications.
Read More →How To Write a Cover Letter for a DACA Renewal
Written by Jonathan Petts.
If you’ve already been granted Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) status by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), you are eligible to renew your status every two years. You’ll need to fill out Form I-821D and submit it along with other required forms and fees to renew. It’s also recommended that you prepare a simple cover letter to include with your application as well. The cover letter allows the USCIS officer to see what’s included with your application at a glance. This article explains what a DACA renewal cover letter is and the elements it should include. It also includes a template you can use to write your own.
Read More →How To Pay USCIS Fees With a Credit or Debit Card
Written by Jonathan Petts.
The majority of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) immigration forms carry a government filing fee. USCIS uses filing fees to cover the processing costs and biometric services for your application type. You can pay for your application’s filing fees using a traditional check or money order, or more recently, a credit or debit card. USCIS does not accept or process online payments, but you can still pay with a credit or debit card using Form G-1450. This article explains how to use Form G-1450 to pay your USCIS filing fees with a credit or debit card.
Read More →U.S. Immigration Stats - What is the Current State of Immigration in the United States?
Written by Jonathan Petts.
The immigrant population in the United States is very diverse, representing nearly every country in the world. Every year, millions of people move to the U.S., making it the country with the most immigrants in the world. Because of this, immigration features heavily in public and political conversations in the United States. In this article, you can learn about the current state of immigration in the United States and get some answers to some of the most popular questions about immigration today.
Read More →What Is the Visa Waiver Program?
Written by Jonathan Petts.
The Visa Waiver Program allows citizens from eligible countries to stay in the United States for 90 days without getting a visa. It applies to those traveling for business or tourism. This article will explain how the Visa Waiver Program works, who qualifies for it, and how it compares to a B-1 or B-2 visitor visa. If you qualify, you can save yourself time and money on your trip to the U.S., but you should also be aware of a few drawbacks.
Read More →November 2023 Visa Bulletin (Archive)
Written by ImmigrationHelp News Team. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
There were no changes in wait times for all family-based and employment- based green card applicants in November, compared to last month (October).
Read More →How To Translate Immigration Documents (and Why You Need To)
Written by Jonathan Petts.
Applying for immigration benefits requires a lot of paperwork. In additional to official forms from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), most applicants will also have to submit supporting documents with their application. These are personal documents, such a birth certificate or passport, that help prove the information on your application. If any of your supporting documents aren’t in English, you must submit a certified English translation of the document to USCIS with your application. In this article, we explain what USCIS's immigration translation requirements are, who is allowed to make these translations, how much professional document translation costs, and how to get a USCIS certified translation of your immigration documents.
Read More →What Does the USCIS Case Status “Case Was Received” Mean for My Form N-400 Application?
Written by Jonathan Petts.
When you see the case status “Case Was Received” from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), it means USCIS is acknowledging that it received your immigration application packet. This is just the start of USCIS processing your application. It hasn’t yet reviewed your application materials or determined your eligibility. Once you see this status, keep an eye on future status changes and respond to anything that requires your attention, such as a request for evidence. This article explains the “Case Received” USCIS status and what to do when your application is in this status.
Read More →How To Get or Renew a U.S. Asylum Work Permit
Written by Jonathan Petts.
Asylum is a part of U.S. immigration law that allows people fleeing persecution or violence in their home country to live and work in the United States. If you have applied for asylum and your application has been in process for more than 150 days, you can apply for a work permit. This work permit allows you to work in the U.S. while you wait for a decision on your asylum case. You may hear a work permit called an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) or an employment authorization card. You cannot work without one. After you receive an initial work permit, you can apply to renew your asylum work permit at any time. Once you apply for renewal, USCIS will extend your expiration date by 540 days. This article contains everything you need to know to apply for a U.S. work permit as an asylee and how to renew your asylum work permit.
Read More →What Is the B-1/B-2 Visa?
Written by Jonathan Petts.
The B-1/B-2 visa is a temporary, non-immigrant visa that allows foreigners to travel to the United States for business or tourism purposes. If you're traveling to the United States for a business conference or trip, you'll need a B-1 visa. The B-2 visa, on the other hand, covers tourism, such as vacations or visits with family. This article is a deep dive into the B-1/B-2 visa, explaining the visa requirements, who can apply, how much it costs, and how to apply. The article also answers some commonly asked questions about the B-1/B-2 visa.
Read More →USCIS Has Approved Over 1300 New DACA Applications Since November Ruling
Written by Jonathan Petts.
President Obama created Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) in 2012. The DACA program protects certain young people who entered the country illegally from deportation. DACA beneficiaries can get a work permit, a Social Security Number (SSN), and apply for a driver’s license. But, many have contested the legality of the program over the past few years. Trump administration officials argued that the program did not comply with current immigration laws.
Read More →Missing I-94 Arrival Record - How Do I Prove Lawful Entry to the United States?
Written by Jonathan Petts.
Every year thousands of people apply for a green card based on their family relationship with a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident. If you want to apply from inside the United States, you must prove that you entered the country lawfully. To prove that, you normally submit a copy of your I-94 Arrivals and Departure record with your Green Card application. The I-94 officially documents all the dates when you left and came into the United States through ports of entry. But what happens if you can't find your I-94 record? This article explains how to get a copy of your missing I-94 record and discusses other ways you may be able to prove lawful entry into the United States.
Read More →Everything You Need To Know About USCIS Form I-690
Written by Jonathan Petts.
The United States has an extensive set of laws that control who can enter the country. If you can’t enter because one or more of these laws apply to you, you are deemed “inadmissible.” Luckily, several exceptions may allow you to receive a waiver and enter the country. To get one of these waivers, you have to fill out an application. Which application you fill out depends on why you feel you are entitled to a waiver. One such application is Form I-690 from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
Read More →How To Complete Your Address History on a DACA Application
Written by Jonathan Petts.
Many immigrants who come to the United States have moved around and changed addresses. Most U.S. immigration applications, including the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) application, ask for your address history as an applicant. This article explains what address information you need to fill out your DACA forms, how to find old address information, what happens if your address history is incomplete on your DACA forms, and what supporting documents should accompany your DACA application.
Read More →Is U.S. Dual Citizenship Possible?
Written by Jonathan Petts.
While the United States does allow for dual citizenship, your country of origin may not. It's important to check with your home country prior to applying for citizenship by naturalization in the U.S. The process of applying for dual citizenship is the same as the process of applying to become a U.S. citizen. Being a dual citizen comes with both advantages and drawbacks, which we explore further in this article.
Read More →How to Complete Form I-765 WS for Your DACA Application
Written by Jonathan Petts.
Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) provides protection from deportation for many young undocumented immigrants. When you're applying for DACA, you'll submit three main forms together with your supporting evidence to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). In addition to the official DACA application Form I-821D, Consideration of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, you'll have to file Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization and Form I-765WS, the worksheet explaining why you need a work permit. This article will focus on the shortest out of the three forms—Form I-765WS. You'll learn what Form I-765WS is and why you need it, as well as how to complete the different parts of the form.
Read More →How To Apply for DACA in 2022
Written by Jonathan Petts.
Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) is an immigration program created by President Obama in 2012 that allows Dreamers—undocumented immigrants brought to the United States as children—to live and work legally in the United States and avoid deportation. The program has faced a lot of contention. In 2020, the Trump Administration issued an order terminating DACA. This prevented Dreamers from submitting first-time DACA applications, even after a Supreme Court decision rejected the Trump order. On his first day in office, President Biden signed an order to allow for both new DACA applications and DACA renewal requests. Unfortunately, on July 16, 2021, a Texas judge ruled that the DACA program was unconstitutional. In response to that ruling, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is no longer processing new DACA applications. However, the court ruling is currently on appeal, and you can still submit new applications to reserve your place in line if the law changes. This guide explains the DACA application process.
Read More →What Does the USCIS Case Status “Case Was Denied” Mean for My Form I-129F Application?
Written by Jonathan Petts.
If you see “Case Was Denied” as your USCIS case status online, it means that U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has received and reviewed your Form I-129F and decided not to grant you a K-1 fiancé visa. If USCIS denies your case, it will mail you a denial notice explaining why. It can be disheartening to go through months of processing for a fiancé visa only to have your case denied. If this happens, you may want to get legal advice about the next steps.
Read More →What are U.S. Work Visas?
Written by Jonathan Petts.
Generally, you can get work authorization as a foreigner in the United States working for U.S. employers, either as a temporary employee or as a sponsored, permanent employee. This article is a guide to all the different U.S. work visa types that exist for noncitizens of the United States. Broadly speaking, there are permanent immigrant work visas, temporary nonimmigrant work visas, and other categories of employment authorization for some nonimmigrant groups.
Read More →What Is USCIS Form I-797: Notice of Action?
Written by Jonathan Petts. Legally reviewed by ImmigrationHelp Team
The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) Form I-797: Notice of Action serves several purposes. If you file an application with USCIS, the agency will send you Form I-797: Notice of Action to inform you that it has received your application. This is often called a receipt notice. It’s also commonly used as a way to communicate that USCIS has approved your immigrant or nonimmigrant application. While these are common uses of Form I-797, USCIS also uses Form I-797 to notify you of case status changes. These notices have a letter at the end of the form name, such as Form I-797C, and each form provides information regarding the status of your application. In this article, we explain each of the uses of Form I-797.
Read More →What Supporting Documents Do You Need for a U.S. Marriage Green Card?
Written by Jonathan Petts.
U.S. citizens and permanent residents can sponsor their spouse for a marriage green card. They and their spouse will need to submit certain documents to the U.S. government when they apply. The application process and documents you will need are different when the spouse seeking a green card is living inside of the United States (adjustment of status) and when they are living outside of the United States (consular processing). This guide will serve as a document checklist for both processes.
Read More →How To Write a Cover Letter for Form I-129F (Petition for Alien Fiancé)
Written by Jonathan Petts.
To prepare a K-1 fiancé(e) visa application for U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), you must complete the required forms, gather supporting documents, and pay fees. It’s not mandatory to include a cover letter in your application packet, but doing so can help keep your application materials organized and make sure you don’t miss any required documents. You can also use the cover letter to highlight anything you want USCIS to know about your visa application. This article explains what a K-1 fiancé visa cover letter is and the elements it should include. There’s also a template you can use to write your own.
Read More →What Is Form I-765: Application for Employment Authorization?
Written by Jonathan Petts.
Form I-765 is main official form you use to apply for a work permit. To receive an Employment Authorization Document (EAD), you need to file Form I-765 with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This article explains what Form I-765 is and how it’s used. We'll also explain who can file the form, how to complete it, what supporting documents to include, and how much it costs.
Read More →How To Expunge Your Criminal Record as a DACA Applicant
Written by Jonathan Petts.
The U.S. government will check your criminal record for any crimes that disqualify you from getting the immigration benefit you’re applying for. It may be possible to take these crimes off your criminal record; this is called expunging your criminal record. Your crimes that would otherwise disqualify you from immigration benefits will no longer count against you. The U.S. government will still see your expunged records, but they possibly won’t harm your application. This article explains disqualifying criminal convictions for Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) and how to get an expungement of your criminal record to apply for DACA.
Read More →How Long Does It Take USCIS To Process Form N-400 for Citizenship Applications?
Written by ImmigrationHelp News Team. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
To get U.S. citizenship, you must file Form N-400: Application for Naturalization with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Processing times for Form N-400 have stayed fairly consistent over the past five years with the average wait time being about 11 months. There are 89 field offices that currently process Form N-400. The current average processing time across all offices is 15.5 months. The whole naturalization process (including application processing, the citizenship interview and exam, and oath of allegiance ceremony) takes 18-24 months on average.
Read More →How To Make a USCIS FOIA Request
Written by Jonathan Petts.
The Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) grants the general public the right to access records of any federal agency, including the USCIS. You may want to know what information USCIS has about you if you are facing a removal proceeding or there is a problem with your request to become a U.S. citizen through naturalization. This article will discuss the Freedom of Information Act, including how to submit a FOIA request to USCIS.
Read More →Green Card Applications and Criminal Records
Written by Jonathan Petts.
An important part of the green card application is the criminal background check that the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) runs on every applicant. The U.S. Congress has compiled a list of crimes that can make an immigrant “inadmissible” to the United States under U.S. immigration law. For example, being convicted of an aggravated felony can disqualify you from getting a green card and any future naturalization benefits. This article explains how an applicant’s criminal record can affect their green card application, the types of criminal convictions that will impact their chances of approval, and how to use waivers of inadmissibility.
Read More →How To Get a Consular Report of Birth Abroad (CRBA)
Written by Jonathan Petts.
Many U.S. citizens and their families live and work in countries all around the world. Children born abroad to U.S. citizen parents may meet the requirements under the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) for a Consular Report of Birth Abroad (CRBA). A CRBA is evidence of U.S. citizenship issued to a child of a U.S. citizen who was born abroad. This article explains the CRBA in detail, including the eligibility requirements and application process. The article also answers some frequently asked questions about CRBA.
Read More →What Is the K-3 visa?
Written by Jonathan Petts.
If you are the fiancé or spouse of a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident, there are a handful of visa options for you to join your partner in the United States. There are both fiancé visas and green cards available for foreign partners and spouses. The K-3 visa is an option that may be available to you as the spouse of a U.S. citizen, but not many immigrants opt for it. This article is a guide to the K-3 visa. It explains what the visa is, whether it's a good idea to get it and why many don't, and how to apply for the visa if you choose to.
Read More →How To Get a Sibling Green Card
Written by Jonathan Petts.
If your sibling is a U.S. citizen who is 21 years or older, they can sponsor a lawful permanent resident application for you if you are a citizen of a foreign country. The process for getting a sibling card is usually long. However, it is still possible for your siblings to join you in the United States. This article explains the sibling green card application process, the eligibility requirements, how much it costs, and why it takes so long for siblings to get green cards.
Read More →How To Find Help With Your Immigration Application When You Need Some Extra Help
Written by Jonathan Petts.
With DACA, you can access immigration benefits like work authorization and protection from deportation. In this article, we explainresources you can turn to when you need a bit more help to prepare your DACA application.
Read More →What Is the H-1B Visa?
Written by Jonathan Petts.
The H-1B visa is a U.S. work visa that allows foreign nationals working in specialty occupation jobs to live and work lawfully in the United States for U.S. employers. The H-1B visa is valid for a maximum of 6 years, and H-1B visa holders are eligible to apply for employment-based green cards. This article is a guide to the H-1B visa. It explains specialty occupation and the eligibility requirements for the H-1B visa. It also explains the H-1B visa application process and what happens after applying. You will also find the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about the H-1B visa in this article.
Read More →What Is the American Dream and Promise Act, and What Does It Mean for You?
Written by Jonathan Petts.
A significant part of President Biden's campaign messaging was overturning the Trump Administration's immigration policies and establishing a path to lawful permanent residence and citizenship for undocumented immigrant youth called Dreamers. Soon after winning the election, President Biden reinstated the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program that President Obama had started in 2012. A few months into his administration, U.S. legislators restarted conversations about granting DACA recipients green cards with the American Dream and Promise Act of 2021.
Read More →Removal of Conditions on Marriage Green Cards
Written by Jonathan Petts.
Years ago, the U.S. government instituted tighter measures to help prevent marriage fraud. Issuing conditional green cards (CR-1 visas) to newly-married couples was one of those measures. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) places conditions on your green card so they can re-assess whether your marriage is based on a bona fide relationship with your spouse. This article explains the removal of conditions process for marriage green cards and answers some frequently asked questions about the process.
Read More →What Is Form I-130A, Supplemental Information for a Spouse?
Written by Jonathan Petts.
To file a marriage green card petition, you and your spouse will have to submit several forms to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS). The entire process begins when your U.S citizen or lawful permanent resident spouse successfully files Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, on your behalf. Sometimes, depending on your unique background, you will have to provide important extra information with Form I-130. You’ll often do that with Form I-130A. This guide explains Form I-130A, who needs to file the form, and how to file it.
Read More →How Long Does It Take To Get a Family-Based Green Card?
Written by Jonathan Petts.
Green card (lawful permanent resident card) processing times depend on several factors. There are several different green card categories. The two broadest are employment-based green cards and family-based green cards. Your green card category, your employment or family relationship that makes you eligible, and where you are applying from all impact how long it will take to get your green card. Backlogs with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) also play a role. This article focuses on how much time it takes, on average, to get different types of family-based green cards. We will look at the application process from start to finish and include information on how to check your green card case status during the process.
Read More →All About USCIS Requests for Evidence (RFEs): What They Are, How To Avoid Them, and What To Do if You Receive One
Written by Jonathan Petts.
When U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) determines that it needs extra information to make a decision on your immigration case, it will send you a request for evidence, also called an RFE. USCIS will send it to the mailing address you listed on your application. In this article, we will explain what a USCIS request for evidence is, how to avoid RFEs, and how to respond to a USCIS RFE if you receive one.
Read More →Can I Get a Work Permit While Waiting for My Green Card?
Written by Jonathan Petts.
Once you get a green card, you’ll enjoy many rights and privileges as a legal resident of the United States, including the right to have a job. But it often takes a long time for U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to process green card applications. During this waiting period, you can’t legally work in the United States unless you have authorization. If you want to work while you’re waiting for your green card to be approved, you have to apply for a work permit using Form I-765: Application for Employment Authorization. In this article, we take a closer look at work permits, including how to get one while waiting for a green card.
Read More →How to Get a Credit Card as a DACA Recipient
Written by Jonathan Petts.
Building credit is important for making a living in the United States. Getting a credit card and building credit can be a little complicated for Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) recipients because many don't have any U.S. credit history. But it is still possible for DACA recipients to get a credit card! In this article, we explain how to check your U.S. credit history and options for getting a credit card with or without a U.S. credit history.
Read More →How To Get Advance Parole for Business Travel
Written by Jonathan Petts.
For many people applying for immigration benefits, Advance Parole is necessary to travel abroad while they wait for the U.S. government to process their application. Other immigrants, like recipients of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA), must also have an approved travel permit before leaving the United States if they'd like to return. Advance Parole makes it possible for immigrants with business ties abroad to leave the United States temporarily for work. In this article, we'll explain what business reasons you can get Advance Parole for as well as the step-by-step application process for getting the travel permit.
Read More →What Does the USCIS Case Status “Case Was Denied” Mean for My Citizenship Application?
Written by Jonathan Petts.
If you see “Case Was Denied” as your USCIS case status online, it means that U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has received and reviewed your Form N-400 citizenship case and decided not to grant you naturalization. If USCIS denies your citizenship case, it will send you a denial notice explaining why. It can be disheartening to go through months of waiting for USCIS to process your citizenship application only to have your case denied. If this happens, you may want to get legal advice about the next steps.
Read More →What To Do if You Are Denied Entry Into the United States With Advance Parole
Written by Jonathan Petts.
For green card applicants based in the United States and people with Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) status, Advance Parole is a welcome provision. With this travel document, you can leave the United States while in DACA status or while U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) processes your green card application. Advance Parole provides a chance to visit ailing family, study abroad, attend forums and conferences abroad, and catch up with friends. But sometimes the U.S. government does not allow people with valid Advance Parole documents to reenter the United States. This article explains some reasons why the U.S. government would refuse to let you back into the country even with Advance Parole and some things you can do if you find yourself in this situation as an adjustment of status applicant or a DACA recipient.
Read More →Same-Sex Couples and Marriage Green Card Applications: Common Questions and Concerns About the Process
Written by Jonathan Petts.
Same-sex couples must be treated equally under U.S. immigration law thanks to the U.S. Supreme Court's ruling in the United States v. Windsor case, which struck down the Defense of Marriage Act. Even further, in 2015, the Supreme Court ruled in Obergefell v. Hodges that every state be required to issue marriage licenses to same-sex couples. Following both Supreme Court rulings, gay marriage is legal in every U.S. state. Accordingly, the United States Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) will view same-sex marriages the same as opposite-sex marriages in deciding on family green card applications. USCIS will not factor in the spouses' genders or biological sexes in making visa application decisions. Same-sex spouses of U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents are welcome to apply for marriage green cards, just like heterosexual couples. However, gay and lesbian couples do face some unique challenges in applying for a marriage green card. This article discusses these challenges and explains how to address them.
Read More →What Is the Process for Marrying a Non-U.S. Citizen?
Written by Jonathan Petts.
Green card holders and U.S. citizens are at liberty to marry non-U.S. citizens. Their foreign spouses can get a marriage green card and live with them in the United States. The application process looks different depending on where you and your future spouse live and your respective immigration statuses. This article explains the possibilities and considerations to keep in mind when applying for a marriage green card. Specifically, the article explains what things look like if both partners are present in the United States versus if neither is and the process if only one partner is in the United States.
Read More →How To Prepare DACA Forms for Free With ImmigrationHelp
Written by Jonathan Petts.
ImmigrationHelp.org is a nonprofit with a mission to help cut down the cost of legal fees for eligible low-income Dreamers. ImmigrationHelp is not an immigration law firm or accredited representative that provides legal advice. Even though ImmigrationHelp is not a form preparation service, we help with many immigration application types, and most of them follow a similar process. Our service is interactive, and the faster you respond, the sooner we can get you your completed forms. Generally, we hope to help you file your forms two weeks after you first contact us to work together. This article will focus on how to complete a Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) renewal application or new DACA application with ImmigrationHelp.org’s system.
Read More →What Is Form G-1145: E-Notification of Application/Petition Acceptance?
Written by Jonathan Petts.
Mailing your completed application packet to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) is an exciting time. You have finally finished gathering your documents and filing fees for the immigration benefit you applied for, and now it's up to USCIS to process your application. There are multiple ways to keep up with USCIS' processing of your application. In addition to tracking your case status online with the USCIS website, you can sign up to receive email and text notifications about updates to your application using Form G-1145. This article explains what Form G-1145 is, and whether you should consider filing the form.
Read More →The Complete Guide to the U.S. Immigration Medical Exam
Written by Jonathan Petts.
The immigration medical exam is a crucial part of the green card application process. Under U.S. immigration law, all green card applicants must complete the immigration medical exam to confirm that they are in good health and are fit to live in the United States as permanent residents. This article explains the purpose of the immigration medical exam, what's involved in the process, how much the exam costs, how to find a doctor, and what medical tests you will undergo. It also explains certain health conditions that may make you "inadmissible" to the United States.
Read More →How To Get the Proof of Identity Document (ID) You Need for Your DACA Application
Written by Jonathan Petts.
Every application for Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) must have both the official application forms and supporting evidence to back your case. One of the most important pieces of evidence you must submit with your application is a proof of identity document (ID). U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) processes DACA applications, and they have requirements for what ID you can submit with your new DACA or DACA renewal application. This article explains what an acceptable ID is for DACA and how to get one for your application.
Read More →What Is the Green Card Number?
Written by Jonathan Petts.
If you’re a lawful permanent resident of the United States applying efor citizenship or filling out other government forms, you may need to enter your green card number. This guide explains what the green card number is, how U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) uses it, how to locate the number on your green card, and how to understand what the different parts of the green card number mean.
Read More →What Is the U.S. Citizenship Interview?
Written by Jonathan Petts.
After U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has reviewed your naturalization application and processed your biometric information, they will set an interview appointment for you. Your appointment notice will have your interview date and time. Citizenship interviews typically take place at a USCIS field office — usually, one that is close to the physical address you provided on the Form N-400 form you submitted. This article explains the purpose of the citizenship interview, what to take with you, and what happens during and after the interview.
Read More →What Are the Benefits of Getting a Green Card?
Written by Jonathan Petts.
There are several benefits of having a green card in the U.S., including: - You can apply for citizenship after five years (or three with a marriage green card) - You are protected from deportation - It’s travel easier to travel around and outside of the United States - You can sponsor family members who want a U.S. green card - You’re eligible for federal benefits like student financial aid and Social Security benefits
Read More →What Is the National Visa Center?
Written by Jonathan Petts.
Getting a visa to live or work in the United States usually begins with submitting a petition to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). After USCIS approves the petition, it transfers it to the National Visa Center (NVC). The NVC then handles the visa application process, which includes receiving forms, collecting fees, reviewing documents, and setting up the consular interview.
Read More →What Is the O-1 Visa?
Written by Jonathan Petts.
The U.S. Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) outlines special visa categories for special immigrants. Special immigrants include people like religious workers and acclaimed entertainers and artists, among others. The O-1 visa is for extraordinarily accomplished individuals in business, education, sports, and the arts. This article is a deep dive into the O-1 visa, including its requirements, application process, filing costs, and other considerations.
Read More →When Is a Proxy Marriage Valid in an Immigration Case?
Written by Jonathan Petts.
A proxy marriage occurs when one or both partners are not physically present for the marriage ceremony. Instead, a stand-in takes their place for the ceremony. Proxy marriages are legal in some U.S. states but not in others. This article will discuss how to ensure your proxy marriage is legal under state law, when your marriage is considered legal for immigration purposes, and alternatives to proxy marriages that may make more sense for you, depending on your immigration circumstances.
Read More →How To Use Form I-912 Supporting Documents To Get a Fee Waiver
Written by Jonathan Petts.
Applying or petitioning U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for immigrant benefits can be expensive. Many of the petitions or applications require fees of hundreds of dollars that you might struggle to afford. To accommodate these financial challenges, you could be eligible for a fee waiver from the USCIS by completing Form I-912. Generally speaking, many required USCIS fees can be waived if you can prove that you’re suffering from a financial hardship or otherwise meet specific income standards. To provide this proof, you’ll need to attach complete and accurate supporting documents to Form I-912.
Read More →Types of Relief From Removal Proceedings: An Overview
Written by Jonathan Petts.
When the U.S. government wants you out of the country, they’ll try to deport you using a removal proceeding. If you find yourself in this situation, you can pursue several relief options, including voluntary departure, cancellation of removal, adjustment of status, asylum, and more. Many of these options can delay or stop your deportation, although they’re not always easy to get or applicable to every situation. After reading this article, you will have a general idea of some of the more common forms of relief available and how they work.
Read More →Can DACA Recipients Apply for a Green Card?
Written by Jonathan Petts.
Since President Obama introduced the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program in 2012, eligible undocumented youth have received protection from deportation. The Trump administration terminated the DACA program in 2017, but President Biden restored DACA at the start of his presidency. DACA recipients enjoy benefits like an employment authorization permit. But DACA status and the work permit are only temporary. They are valid for two years, after which DACA recipients have to renew their status. Plans to grant DACA recipients more long-term legal status in the United States have been on the docket for a while but have yet to pass into law. It is still possible for some DACA recipients to get green cards. This article explains the existing pathways for DACA recipients to get green cards.
Read More →Can You Apply for Advance Parole With a Criminal Record?
Written by Jonathan Petts.
Getting status and other U.S. immigration benefits may be out of reach for people with criminal records. If you have ever committed a felony, for example, you can't get immigration benefits. Advance Parole is a travel permit available to special immigrants and those adjusting status to green cards. For example, if you have Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) status, you can travel abroad and return with Advance Parole. This article explains how you can qualify for Advance Parole and whether or not a criminal record can keep you from getting Advance Parole.
Read More →September 2023 Visa Bulletin (Archive)
Written by ImmigrationHelp News Team. Legally reviewed by Jonathan Petts
There were only few changes to the Visa Bulletin for the month of September. For family-based green card applicants, there was a one month decrease in wait times for spouses and children of permanent residents (F2A) across all countries. For employment-based green card applicants, there was a 3 month decrease for Mexico, the Philippines, and "all other countries" in the EB-2 category, and a 3 month decrease for China (main land born) for EB-3 green cards (skilled workers & professionals).
Read More →How To Apply for a U.S. Passport
Written by Jonathan Petts.
If you recently became a U.S. citizen, congratulations! You are now eligible to apply for a U.S. passport. The U.S. passport process is very straightforward, and passport applications are processed much quicker than the other immigration applications you’ve been used to. This article is a step-by-step guide to the application process for a U.S. passport if you’re applying for the first time.
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