Immigration Lawyers Chicago
Immigration Lawyers Chicago
Going through the immigration process can be a daunting and often long experience that leaves many exasperated. At Kriezelman Burton & Associates, our experienced immigration attorneys in Chicago know what needs to be done to make the process less daunting and file the necessary paperwork without unnecessary delay for our clients.
The process of immigration into the United States is divided into two broad categories, which are family-based and employment-based immigration. Both categories are further divided into several categories, depending on whether the immigration is temporary or permanent.
Family-Based Immigration
U.S. citizens who are at least 21 years old and lawful permanent residents (green card holders) can petition the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to have their qualifying relatives be given permanent residency status (green card) based on the relationship.
These family-based immigration visas (green cards) are classified into several categories, which in turn determine the processing time for one to be approved and obtain a green card under that category.
These family-based immigration categories are as follows:
Immediate Relative. An immediate relative is an individual in a close family relationship with a U.S. citizen, such as a spouse, child, or parent. This is the most desired category for family-based immigration because there is no limit as to how many immigrant visas (green cards) can be issued under this category on an annual basis. This, in turn, means if you are an immediate relative, your application will be approved, and you will receive your green card ahead of all others who applied for the green card at the same time as you but based on the other family-based immigration categories.
Family Preference. This is a category for more removed family relationships of a U.S. citizen and some specific family relationships of green card holders. The number of green cards available under this category is limited each year, and for this reason, there is a backlog creating long wait times – sometimes years – before the qualifying relative has their green card approved and received.
Employment-Based Immigration
Obtaining a green card through employment usually requires an employer to sponsor the prospective applicant for a job in the United States. This requires the employer, in most cases. to first obtain a labor certification approval from the Department of Labor. If the labor certification is required and the prospective employer obtains one, then the employer can file Form I-40 Petition for Alien Worker with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
The prospective foreign worker would then apply for a green card once the I-140 petition is approved. The processing time for the green card application will depend on what subcategory of the employment-based visa categories under which they apply.Â
Individuals with extraordinary abilities in their respective fields of endeavor are exempt from the requirement to have an employer first file a petition.
Learn More From Our Immigration Attorneys in Chicago
There are a variety of other ways one can temporarily come to live and work in the United States or to permanently immigrate as a green card holder. If you are interested in learning more about any of these options, contact Kriezelman Burton & Associates, LLC today for a consultation.
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What Our Clients Say
5-Star Rating | Based on 200+ Satisfied Customer Google Reviews
Outstanding Immigration Attorney – Worth Every Penny I cannot recommend Justin highly enough as an immigration attorney. My case was extremely difficult and complex, and from the very beginning, Justin demonstrated an exceptional level of knowledge, professionalism, and dedication. He took the time to fully understand every detail of my situation and explained the entire legal process clearly and honestly, which gave me confidence during a very stressful time. While…
I highly recommend this law firm! They are always honest right from the initial consultation. They don't take cases just for the money. My family member was a victim of an ICE raid in Michigan on November 17th and returned home on December 30th. It could have been faster, but everything happened during the holidays (Thanksgiving and Christmas). Maya Flores was recommended by another lawyer, and the entire team has…
I just wanted to take a moment to thank you for all your help and professionalism throughout my green card and citizenship process. Your guidance has made everything much easier to understand, and I truly appreciate how patient, thorough, and responsive you’ve been with every question I had. I’m very grateful for your support and the quality of your work. I would gladly recommend your services to anyone who needs…
My experience with Kriezelman Burton & Associates was excellent. We worked with Jennifer Peyton, for removal proceedings due to being detained by ICE. Jennifer worked diligently and was responsive. Jennifer was supportive throughout the whole process and showed compassion. With the help of Jennifer and the help of the firm, we were able to get the removal proceedings stopped and received permanent residency. I am so thankful for Kriezelman Burton…
The Best human being to have your back when you really need it!!! Mr Burton's professionalism and sharpness saved my family....!!!!!
I cannot say enough amazing things about Kriezelman Burton & Associates and Attorney Jennifer Peyton. They are truly a godsend. Jennifer worked day and night on my brother’s case, and her dedication never wavered for a single moment. She consistently communicated with my sister-in-law and me, making sure we understood every step of the process and always keeping us informed. She built an incredibly structured and solid case for my…
I recently had the privilege of working with Attorney Brittni Rivera of Kriezelman, Burton & Associates on a habeas corpus case. From the very beginning, she demonstrated exceptional knowledge, integrity, and attention to detail. She was consistently responsive—always just an email away—and made me feel supported through every step of the process. Her guidance brought clarity during a very difficult time, and I am truly grateful for her dedication and…
So many immigration firms in Chicago who do you choose? I can tell you with certainty this is the place to go for you and your loved ones. My wife came over across the border under the Biden years. Our application was sent in, in May and by November we got approved for her 485. This law firm handles many cases of all different kinds so they just know what…
My God, if I could give 10 stars, I would. My family and I are so grateful, first and foremost to God and to attorney Brittni Rivera, who helped us free my husband. He was detained by ICE in Chicago and transferred to Michigan. The process after hiring attorney Brittni Rivera took only 15 days, when I was given about a month. It was incredibly fast and effective.
Our family is sincerely grateful to attorney Nicole M. Provax from Kriezelman Burton & Associates, LLC for her professionalism, dedication, and support, as she guided us through every step with care and understanding. Thanks to her guidance, our case reached a positive outcome. We truly appreciate everything she has done for our family and highly recommend her and the firm.
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