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In order for non-citizens to lawfully enter the United States, they will need to apply for and receive some form of visa or immigration permit. There are numerous types of visas available, with each option providing a different basis for entering the country. No matter what type of visa a foreign national hopes to acquire, he or she still needs to fulfill all the necessary requirements and submit the application correctly.

If you are applying for a visa in Lombard, you have the right to seek out guidance from legal counsel. It is crucial to ensure that your application is free of errors, and a dedicated visa attorney could help you file everything correctly.

Applying for the Right Type of Visa

Before a foreign national applies for a visa, it is critical to understand the options and select the right one for his or her circumstances. There are countless types of visas, and the requirements for one could differ dramatically from another.

Generally speaking, visas fall into two categories: immigrant and non-immigrant. Immigrant visas are part of the process of relocating to the United States permanently, with the ultimate goal of citizenship. Meanwhile, non-immigrant visas offer entry into the country, but they do not provide a path to citizenship. Some of the most commonly sought types of visas include:

  • Fiancé visas
  • Temporary work visas
  • Family preference immigrant visas
  • Immediate relative immigrant visas
  • Cultural exchange visas

Most visas have a time limit assigned to them. However, many temporary visas also allow for renewals. These temporary permits could allow a foreign national to remain in the country indefinitely, as long as he or she continues to comply with the law and meet the requirements.

If a potential immigrant needs help determining the ideal visa for his or her circumstances, they should consult a knowledgeable lawyer in Lombard. Our dedicated team can answer questions, address concerns, and help foreign nationals make informed decisions.

How to Apply for a Visa

The first step in the application process requires you to file a petition with a division of the Department of Homeland Security known as U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). There are different forms required to apply for citizenship, and the appropriate document depends on the type of visa that a foreign national is seeking.

Applying for a visa can have additional steps, as well. For example, a person seeking an employment-based visa might need to secure certification through the U.S. Department of Labor before he or she files a petition.

Meanwhile, some visas require a potential immigrant to seek sponsorship from another individual. For instance, if a foreign national hopes to apply for an employment-based visa, he or she might need to seek sponsorship from an employer. Additionally, some family-based visas require sponsorship from a qualified family member.

Once a visa application is filed and USCIS reviews it, the next step is typically an interview. This interview could occur in a consulate in a person’s home country or in the United States if the applicant is already lawfully in the country. If no issues arise during the interview, the application is likely to be granted. An experienced attorney in Lombard could help a visa applicant prepare for his or her interview.

Talk to an Immigration Attorney About Applying for a Visa in Lombard

The visa application process might seem intimidating, but you never have to face it on your own. You have the right to hire an attorney to serve as your advocate when applying for a visa in Lombard. Your legal representation could not only assist with your application but ensure you are pursuing the right type of visa to begin with. Reach out right away for a private consultation.

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