According to the U.S. census, 36% of the population in Pembroke Pines is foreign born. There are many great opportunities for people from other countries to live in a prosperous manner. However, some people struggle with their immigration status.
Whether you are fighting to get into the country or to stay in the country, the U.S. Immigration Law Counsel® can help. We have years of experience with immigration law. Working with our team can help you, your employer, or your family member meet their immigration goals.
Basics of Immigration Law
If you or someone you know is looking to move from another country into the US, you should know some basics of immigration law. Here are a few of the most commonly asked questions regarding this niche of the legal system:
1. How Does Asylum Work?
Asylum allows people to remain in the U.S. if they fear persecution in their home country. However, it’s not enough to say that you are afraid of going home. There needs to be a history of persecution, or evidence that persecution is likely to occur.
The persecution needs to relate to race, religion, nationality, political views, or social activity. In some cases, the persecution comes from the government. However, it can also be done by uncontrolled groups.
For asylum to be granted, you must apply within one year of your last entrance to the US. If you miss that deadline, you risk being denied asylum.
2. How Does a Green Card Work?
A green card allows you to be a legal U.S. resident. When you first receive your green card, it is only good for two years. After the two years is finished, you need to apply for a permanent green card.
If you commit any crimes during the first two years, you risk losing your residency status. As a result, you might not be able to remain in the US.
3. Can Skilled Workers Come to the U.S.?
Some skilled workers come from other countries on work visas. However, not all skilled workers can do so. There are only certain workers that can legally live and work in the US.
A potential employer can file a request for you. However, the employer needs to prove to the Department of Labor that your immigration will not affect American workers. They need to publish the job in a publication and interview applicants. If any of the applicants are qualified for the job, you could be in a bad situation.
There are some exceptions. If you are an employer looking to hire a skilled worker from another country, you should speak to a lawyer. They can discuss your options.
4. Can You Fight Removal Proceedings?
Whether you are a permanent resident or a non-permanent resident, you could be issued an order stating that you will be removed from the country. Your green card isn’t a guarantee that you can stay.
Fortunately, you might be able to fight the deportation or removal proceedings. For instance, non-residents can attempt to get a cancellation of the proceedings. If successful, you could receive a green card.
5. Can You Sponsor a Family Member?
If you have family in another country and are a resident of the US, you may be able to help them get into the US. However, there are many limitations. For instance, green card holders can only petition for their spouses and unmarried children.
US citizens have a little more clout. They can petition for their married or unmarried children, siblings, spouses, and parents. But there are factors that can impact how soon the immigration can occur. There are preference categories and priority dates. After you fill out the paperwork, it’s a waiting game.
6. How Do You Become a Citizen?
If you have a green card, you may be able to become a citizen. But you first need to meet all of the requirements for naturalization. If you do, you can begin the lengthy process of becoming a U.S. citizen.
Often, people struggle to complete the process. You need to speak the English language, have a knowledge of American history, and show good moral character. Furthermore, you need to correctly fill out the paperwork and provide the right documentation.
Why Do You Need an Immigration Lawyer?
Some people choose to navigate the immigration system alone. However, that can be terrifying. There are many laws regarding immigration, and the policies frequently change. If you want a good outcome, you can improve your chances by working with a lawyer.
A lawyer can help you in several ways. First, they can discuss your options. Often, there are several different visa options or strategies for immigration. It’s important to understand all of your options and to choose the one that is most likely to get you a favorable and quick outcome.
There’s also the issue of paperwork. Visas and other requests can demand mountains of paperwork. If you make one mistake on the paperwork, you risk your immigration status. You can work with an attorney to reduce your chances of an error. Additionally, you can save time by allowing them to fill out the paperwork.
In some cases, you may need to show up in court. For instance, deportation proceedings happen in court. You could benefit from experienced legal representation. They can stand up for you and fight for your right to remain in the country.
Finally, a lawyer can speed up the process. The immigration process is a slow one. And while your attorney can’t force the government to move quicker, they can expedite the process. They know which visas can get you quicker results as well as other ways to get you more rapid results.
Working with an Immigration Lawyer in Pembroke Pines
In Pembroke Pines, the median household income is $62,702. The cost of living is affordable, which makes it a great place for immigrants to start a new life.
Your goals of immigrating to the area may be able to come true. By working with an immigration lawyer, you can find your way through the complex system that often prevents people from remaining in the US. Contact the U.S. Immigration Law Counsel® today to learn more about how we can help.
