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What is the Difference Between Immigrant and Non-Immigrant Visas?
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Individuals who wish to come and live in the United States have many options, but many do not know which one is right for them. It is important that anyone wishing to remain in the country understands the difference between immigrant and non-immigrant visas. Knowing these differences can help immigrants and their families take the practical and positive steps toward resolving their immigration status in the United States. A Chicago immigration lawyer can advise on which type of visa is right for a specific situation and, when necessary, help individuals adjust their status.
Immigrant Visas
Individuals who wish to live, work, and study in the United States on a permanent basis can apply for an immigrant visa, also known as a green card. Green cards bring many benefits for those who successfully obtain them. Green card holders can sponsor immediate relatives who want to come to the country, contribute to political campaigns, travel in and out of the United States with ease, and receive social security benefits.
Perhaps the biggest benefit to securing an immigrant visa is that green card holders can eventually apply for citizenship, which brings all of the benefits that American citizens enjoy. These include the right to be free from the risk of deportation, the right to vote, and more. Green cards do expire, but individuals can renew them within six months of the visa’s expiration date. Anyone who wishes to remain in the country indefinitely should speak to an immigration lawyer about obtaining a green card. Applicants who are successful with their application and secure a green card are known as lawful permanent residents.
Non-Immigrant Visas
Non-immigrant visas are issued to individuals that wish to enter the United States on a temporary basis. There are many different types of non-immigrant visas and the type a person applies for will depend on the purpose of their travel. Like green cards, non-immigrant visas also have an expiration date. If the visa is not renewed or extended before or on the expiration date, the immigrant will have to leave the country.
Individuals must apply for non-immigrant visas while they are still abroad. When a temporary visa is issued, it still does not guarantee entry into the United States. The United States customs official at the port of entry will review the paperwork and determine if the individual is eligible to live in the country on a temporary basis.Â
Our Illinois Immigration Lawyers can Help With Your Visa Needs
For individuals wishing to enter the United States, there are many options available. However, the process of obtaining a visa is complex. At Kriezelman, Burton & Associates, LLC, our Chicago immigration lawyers can help. We know how to navigate the complex immigration system and our experienced attorneys will give you the best chance of success with your application. Call us today or contact us online to schedule a consultation and to learn more about how we can help with your case.
What Our Clients Say
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I highly recommend Brittni Rivera. We are very grateful to her and the entire team at Kriezelman Burton & Associates. Your dedication, responsiveness, and compassion made an enormous difference during an incredibly difficult time. Serving as the liaison between Brittni Rivera and our friend in ICE detention, I saw firsthand how tirelessly she worked guiding us through the process, answering every question, and never losing sight of the humanity at…
Andrea C. Ochoa is truly the best of the best. ❤️ Our family went through one of the most difficult and frightening experiences of our lives when Feruz was detained by ICE. We felt lost, scared, and unsure of what would happen next. From the very beginning, Andrea brought us not only her professionalism and deep legal knowledge, but also something even more important — hope. She guided us through…
Thank you Matthew for all your help with my case. Highly recommend
In the final stages of our employment based green card, Maya Flores was very helpful. She guided us through the details, made a mock up interview and then went with us to the actual appointment. We were able to see her expertise because she made some clarifications to the officer. Very good service, 5 well deserved stars.
Los mejores abogados !!
Estoy muy complacida con este bufete son muy bueno en lo que hacen,gracias a Maya flores por su trabajo desde el primer dĂa de mi proceso estuvo pendiente y nos dio un tiempo estimado
We had the chance to work with Maya Flores during the final stage of our employment-based green card process, and we are so thankful we did. Even though our case was already far along when she stepped in, she took full ownership right away. She carefully reviewed everything, prepared the documentation, suggested the right immigration forms, and made sure we felt ready. She was with us during the interview and…
I highly recommend Attorney Mathew Kriezelman and Kriezelman Burton & Associates, LLC. I had an outstanding experience working with their office. I petitioned for my parents, and the firm guided them through the entire adjustment of status process. From the very beginning, Attorney Mathew Kriezelman and Paralegal Silvia Dimayuga were professional, knowledgeable, and exceptionally supportive. They clearly explained each step, ensured all documentation was properly prepared, and promptly answered every…
Navigating the immigration system is incredibly stressful, but Justin Burton made the process seamless. They were patient with all my questions and explained every step of the legal process in a way I could easily understand. Their attention to detail is unmatched, and their staff is professional and kind. Highly recommended!
I cannot thank Justin Burton enough for their incredible work on my case. From our very first consultation, I felt a sense of relief knowing I was in expert hands. They were meticulous with the paperwork, always kept me updated, and ultimately helped me achieve a successful outcome. If you are looking for an immigration lawyer who truly cares about their clients, look no further.
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