Like many of you, I?ve heard a number of negative immigration application experiences through the years. Mainly because applicants are misinformed or they trusted the wrong kind of people. The truth is, unlike other technical matters, immigration is comprised of an emotional element that generally clouds people?s judgement.
Given the latest immigration reforms announced by President Obama, I asked some friends of mine about their personal experiences as immigrants. Everyone had their own individual story, but as a whole they all had one thing in common: seeking the advice of an Immigration Lawyer. There are of course plenty of options, but I?m going to leave a link here for one of the law firms my friends ranked positively.
Let?s list some of the main reasons to hire an Immigration Lawyer:
Apply for the Right Kind of Visa
A common issue with visa applications is that people need to know which one is best for them. The fact that something worked for a friend or family member does not mean it is the right path for you. That is why checking with an expert should be the first thing on your list. The United States of America offers two visa categories, Immigrant and NonImmigrant. Each of them include numerous visa types to suit every purpose.
Avoid Paperwork Mistakes
If you take a look at the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services? (USCIS) website, you?ll find that some of the most common mistakes people make when completing forms like the I-9 (Employment Eligibility Verification) are completely avoidable. For example, forgetting to include the employer?s name or missing check boxes. This tends to happen when those who complete the forms are not familiar with this kind of paperwork. It can be an overwhelming process, and it is always best to get expert assistance.
Lodge Your Application in Time
There are due dates and time constraints associated with visa applications. Failing to comply with those dates may delay your case or even cause an unwanted outcome. It is best to give yourself plenty of time to complete the process. Bare in mind that there are several steps to take before applying. For example, translating and notarizing legal documents, compiling financial information, collecting proof of identity and paying official fees.
Hiring an Immigration Lawyer is more than a precaution, it is actually one of the safest ways to avoid unnecessary mistakes. All you have to do is research your options and choose the attorney you feel most comfortable with. Remember that immigration matters can be a long process, so you?ll want help from someone you can trust.
Have you already gone through the visa application process? Share your experience in a comment below. Your story could inspire others to follow their dreams with the help of an immigration attorney.
