Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do I get a visa to come to the
United States?
A: You may enter the United States temporarily for a variety of
reasons, including as a tourist, business person, student, or
temporary employee. These temporary visas are known as nonimmigrant
visas.
Visas are issued at U.S. embassies and consulates located in most countries. You must show the consular officer that you qualify for the particular visa that you are applying for. Global Law Partners can assist you in preparing your visa petition.
Visas may be valid for a single entry or multiple entries into the U.S. The length of time for which a visa is issued depends upon the type of visa and other factors. A visa, however, does not automatically guarantee entry to the U.S. The immigration officer at the U.S. port of entry makes that final decision.
Q: I married a US citizen. How do
I apply for US citizenship?
A: If you and your spouse live in the United States, you must file a
relative petition with the US Citizenship and Immigration Service.
You may also be able to file your green card application, if you are
eligible. You could also request work authorization and a
travel permit known as advance parole. You and your spouse would
attend an interview, where you would show that you married for
reasons other than just immigration benefits.
Your should include copies of your identification, wedding photographs, tax returns, insurance documents, and documents showing joint assets and a shared life. Your spouse would also sign an affidavit of support that you both have enough money to stay above the poverty level.
If you live outside of the United States, your U.S. citizen spouse would file a petition with the USCIS. Once approved, the case will move to the National Visa Center (NVC) and, then, to the U.S. Consulate where the you reside. The consulate will require proof that your marriage is genuine, the affidavit of support, and background information and documentation.
If your U.S. citizen spouse lives abroad, the immigration paperwork is generally processed at the appropriate U.S. consulate. Your spouse must file a form with the USCIS. Once that form is approved, the remaining processing and the interview occurs at the consulate. You and your spouse must show that you plan to move to the U.S. You would also have to show that you meet the income requirements.
Once your application is approved, you will receive a conditional green card if your marriage is less than two years old. You and your spouse will be required to submit a joint petition to renew your green card within the 90-day period immediately before your green card expires. If your marriage is terminated due to death or divorce, or if you are a victim of spousal abuse, you may apply to the USCIS for a waiver of the joint petition requirement.