Immigration Procedures
Understanding Immigration Procedures
Immigration to the United States is not as simple as walking up to the border and asking if you can come in. The U.S. immigration process is a bureaucratic maze that you will need to navigate in order to attain your ultimate goal of citizenship.
To help you get a sense of the considerations you should have as you move through this maze, the following information offers some immigration basics on how to avoid any pitfalls that might derail your efforts at gaining citizenship.
The process of immigration begins after you determine whether you qualify for permanent residency or a temporary stay.
Gaining a Green Card
If you want to permanently make the United States your home, you’ll need to earn a “green card.” With a green card, you’ll be able to work and live in the United States and travel in and out of the country. Green card holders cannot vote and can be deported if they abuse their status, but otherwise, there are very few restrictions. Green card holders range from family members of U.S. citizens to refugees to workers who have special skills or who were brought to the country by a U.S. employer.
Applying for a Nonimmigrant Visa
If you only want to visit the United States for a limited time, you will need what is known as a “nonimmigrant visa.” With this documentation, you’ll be able to perform specified activities, such as going to school, visiting friends or family members, or working until the visa expires. A visa of this kind is not necessary if you are only visiting for 90 days or less. To participate in this visa waiver program, you will need to provide a passport and proof that you have enough funds to pay for your stay in the country.
Being Aware of Immigration Agencies
Earning either a green card or a visa requires that you submit a series of applications to the agencies responsible for executing immigration laws. These include the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), which has locations all around the United States, and the U.S. Department of State, which manages U.S. consulates and embassies around the world. The most common avenue for obtaining a visa is through a consulate prior to coming to the country. Most immigrants who use this option will adjust their status to permanent residency once they arrive in their new country.
Finding a Reputable Immigration Lawyer
While the process seems straightforward, it is in fact very complex. U.S. immigration laws are considered to be the most complicated and confusing of all U.S. laws. While it is possible to delve through them on your own, your best bet is to hire an experienced immigration attorney to help you. Sometimes engaging the services and advice of an immigration lawyer can make the difference between gaining permanent residency and being deported. You can find one via referrals from local nonprofit organizations or friends. The American Immigration Lawyers Association may also be able to help.
Preparing for a Formal Immigration Interview
Many immigration procedures require a formal interview with an official from the USCIS. Plan properly for this meeting and avoid any suspicious activities to make this interview process much easier. To help prepare for a positive interview experience, you should:
- Plan for the meeting. Bring both copies and originals of any necessary forms and be able to discuss them without having to leaf through them.
- Bring your immigration attorney. This is especially important if you feel a high amount of stress leading up to your interview.
- Show up on time. USCIS officials have very heavy schedules, and their availability is limited. Failing to make your appointment on time may lead to a long process in securing another one.
- Dress appropriately. The meeting is an important one for you, so you will want to make a good impression.
- Listen carefully. You’ll want to follow the directions of the USCIS official and answer only the questions you are asked. If you have trouble understanding English, bring an interpreter with you.
- Stay calm. Being prepared goes a long way in helping you stay relaxed during your interview. In addition, if you don’t understand a question, ask for the interviewer to rephrase it. Also, if you don’t know an answer to a question, be honest and discuss your situation with the interviewer. Lying to the official can potentially result in the denial of your application for citizenship and can even cause you to be banned from ever earning a green card.
- Avoid questionable behavior. This can include making jokes or being sarcastic about topics like illegal activities, arguing with your spouse or family during the interview, or losing your patience and arguing with the USCIS officer.