There are multiple ways to obtain legal entry to the US, and most of them involve visas. However, there is a major exception in the “ESTA” system, or the “Electronic System for Travel Authorization.” ESTA is one of the easiest ways to obtain legal entry to the US, but...
Texas Immigration Law Blog
Can green card holders work in the United States?
Obtaining a green card can put you one step closer to attaining citizenship in the United States. One advantage of having this level of clearance is the ability to reside and work in the U.S. while you await citizenship. The idea of getting a job as a foreigner may...
Who can qualify for the green card lottery?
The Diversity Immigrant Visa Program makes it possible for up to 50,000 people to obtain immigrant visas each year. People call this program the green card lottery because the participants are randomly drawn from all applications. It is really important to read and...
Should you get a green card or become a citizen?
If you wish to live and work in the United States on a permanent basis, you will need to either secure a green card or become a citizen. But you may wonder which one is the right option for you. US immigration explains each option comes with its own benefits and...
Who is exempt from the English naturalization test?
During a naturalization interview, you must take a civics test and an English test. For some, the English test may seem daunting because you have to demonstrate an understanding of English and the ability to write, speak and read basic English. According to the USCIS,...
Immediate Relative or Family Preference: Which visa can your family members obtain more easily?
As a legal immigrant to the U.S., you probably want to bring your family members here, too. This, of course, requires that they obtain visas in order to legally enter this country. The question then becomes: Which type of family visa can they more easily obtain?...
Do permanent residents have to report address changes?
If you are a legal permanent resident of the U.S., you may be sick of interacting with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. After all, you have probably filed many petitions and applications, gone to several appointments and received countless notices....
Can I fast-track my immigration application?
The path to U.S. citizenship can take a while, though it is worth it for those who are willing and able to do things right. During the waiting period, it is possible for your situation to change. If that happens, you may need a decision from U.S. Citizenship and...
Why do you need a medical exam to become a citizen?
There are a lot of elements to becoming a U.S. citizen. One hurdle immigrants have to clear before becoming a citizen is a medical exam. It may not seem like a check-up could stop an applicant from becoming a citizen, but it can. The government denies citizenship for...
How will a criminal conviction impact immigration status?
Trying to become a U.S. citizen takes time, dedication and persistence. What happens if you become convicted of a crime before starting the process? The Immigration and Nationality Act or INA contains valuable insight into what you can and cannot do while applying to...