Did you know that immigrants comprise over a fifth of the population in four states? According to the United States Census Bureau, 26.5% of California’s population are foreign-born. Across the nation, that percentage is roughly 13.7% of the nation.
The problem with immigration is how convoluted the process can seem to both citizens and newcomers. It’s not as easy as filling out a form online and sending it in. There’s a specific timeline to follow and various steps you can’t afford to mess up.
Here’s how to have an easier time by hiring the best immigration lawyers in Chicago.
The Importance of Fast and Reliable Immigration Attorney Services
Short immigration timelines are key for many people, especially if they’re at risk of deportation. As per the law, a person cannot stay in the US past the expiration date of their immigration status. Once that status expires, they are supposed to depart the country immediately.
If a person stays in the country after the expiration date, it is considered unlawful presence.
There are multiple reasons why an immigrant might find themselves at risk or desperate for a lawyer’s help. That includes:
- End of employment
- Family reunification
- Asylum application
- Green card renewal
Employment-Based Visas
Employers and employees often face strict deadlines for filing visa petitions. In particular, H-1B visas have annual caps and limited filing windows. Without this visa, both the employee and employer could find themselves in legal trouble.
Missing these deadlines can delay job opportunities and disrupt business operations.
If an immigrant on a work visa finds themselves unemployed for whatever reason, they have a limited grace period to find another employer. Alternatively, they can change visa status or leave the country to avoid being “out of status”.
Once rehired, the H-1B worker can potentially begin working again as soon as a new petition is filed on their behalf. The actual processing time for renewal may extend past that grace period, though.
Family Reunification
Reuniting with family is a deeply emotional journey, and delays in processing family-based petitions can prolong this separation. It’s an especially troubling experience when children are involved, as they won’t fully understand why things are taking so long.
The current system allows citizens and lawful permanent residents to sponsor close family members and help them obtain a visa. However, the process could take anywhere from five months to a a period of many years to finalize. That’s why it’s important to avoid making any mistakes during the application.
Asylum Applications
Some immigrants are fleeing their home countries and seeking asylum. For them, time is critical. Any delays in processing their immigration applications could mean they face a most uncertain and unsafe future, with the reality of having to return to a dangerous home country very much at play.
U.S. law requires asylum seekers to apply within one year of arriving in the country. Prompt legal guidance can help them prevent any delays or finding themselves in a complicated situation.
While asylum seekers generally cannot apply to change to H-1B visa status, they can apply for a work permit, also known as an “Employment Authorization Document”, 150 days after submitting their asylum application – and their asylum application remains pending. This allows them to work in the United States for as long as their asylum application remains undecided.
Green Card Renewals and Citizenship
Expiring green cards can create legal and logistical challenges. An immigrant may not know their green card can expire or the exact date it expires. It’s important for them to work with a qualified attorney to sort out their legal status.
The same applies to anyone seeking naturalization. While there is no deadline to apply for U.S. citizenship, there are strict requirements that take time to meet. The processing time can take about six to nine months to process, assuming the petitioner sends in everything as instructed.
The Key to Streamlining Immigration Services
Each type of immigration functions with its own specific requirements and timelines. The one you can apply for will depend on your current status and desires. There may also be limits on how many people can apply for a specific visa every year.
Working with immigration experts is the best way to streamline timelines because they understand how the system works. They can anticipate challenges, navigate bureaucratic hurdles, and deliver results. Your attorney does so through a combination of strategic planning, efficient communication, and experience handling a wide range of filings, including appeals and litigation.
You can rely on your immigration attorney to assemble supporting documents and draft persuasive legal arguments. This will help reduce the risk of Requests for Evidence or denials being issued.
An attorney could make use of urgent business needs or humanitarian parole to expedite processing. They’ll keep track of your application as it travels through the different agencies to make sure your case doesn’t get lost in the shuffle.
In a worst-case scenario, they can handle appeals and litigation on your behalf. Their legal expertise ensures that your rights are protected.
How to Find the Best Chicago Immigration Firms
There are many options available for immigration attorney services. It’s important to find the right one so your family or business isn’t taken advantage of or falsely promised results.
Experienced immigration lawyers are licensed, have a strong track record, and generally focus exclusively in immigration law. Ask them to provide their credentials if you’re unsure. You can also look them up online to find out more about their history.
Read reviews from previous clients to learn more about how the lawyer works and their success rates.
Talk at length with your immigration attorney. They should take the time to understand your circumstances and develop a customized strategy. You should discuss fees, as some cases involve significant costs.
Get Fast Service With the Best Immigration Lawyers
Dealing with immigration paperwork is one of the most stressful things for someone coming from another country. When you hire one of the best immigration lawyers in Chicago, you can rest easier knowing they can lead the way. As long as you follow their advice, they’re sure to deliver the results you want.
The Law Offices of Richard Hanus have provided immigration law representation and counsel for over 30 years. Our areas of expertise include corporate immigration, family immigration, deportation defense, and personal immigration services. Contact us with any questions, and tell us about your circumstances.