Immigrant Visas, also known as Legal Permanent Resident Visas or “Green Cards” allow the visa holder to reside and work legally in the United States permanently, we has helped clients across the United States become legal permanent residents of the United States.
Some non-immigrant visas allow a person to reside and work in the United States for a period of time which could be anywhere between a couple of days and up to several years depending on the type of visa. In certain cases, the spouse and children younger than 21 years may also accompany the beneficiary of a non-immigrant visa. In some cases, the spouse may also obtain an Employment Authorization Document.
E-2 Visa – this is a non-immigrant visa intended for investors from other countries. This visa allows the investor to invest in the United States a “substantial” amount of funds, which in turn will allow him and his family (subject to restrictions) to live in the U.S. The applicant’s wife will also be permitted to work in the U.S. This visa can typically be renewed after the initial approval period for another 5 years so long as the business continues to operate and support the applicant and his family.
L-1A Visa – This is a non-immigrant visa for an intracompany Transferee. The L-1 visa allows for the temporary transfer of a foreign worker that will occupy a managerial, executive or specialized knowledge position in the United States. When in the U.S. the transferee will continue employment with an office of the same employer, a branch or subsidiary. This visa also allows for the Transferee to apply for a residency after the first year.
Naturalization is the process by which a green card holder becomes an American citizen by taking a naturalization test and having his or her application reviewed by a USCIS officer during a personal interview. If you want to become a US citizen, hiring a citizenship attorney to help you navigate this complex process is recommended to avoid making mistakes.
You May Qualify for Naturalization if you meet the following general requirements:
Applicants over 50 years old that have been lawful permanents resident for at least 20 years, or are over 55 years old and have been lawful permanent residents for at least 15 years, may be exempt from the English proficiency requirement and may take the history and civics test in their native language.