Arlington Immigration Attorney

Lawyer Helping Family Members, Employers, and Employees With Immigration in Arlington, Virginia

Those who plan to immigrate to the United States and immigrants who want to make sure they can continue living in the country will need to navigate a complex legal system. Understanding and meeting the requirements involved in this process can be very challenging, which is why experienced guidance from an immigration attorney can be invaluable. At The Estevez Group, PC, we help people in Arlington, Virginia address a wide range of immigration matters, from applying for visas to pursuing U.S. citizenship. Our firm is dedicated to helping clients understand their rights and options while providing effective legal representation as they address their immigration-related concerns.

Understanding Visas and Sponsorship

A visa is an official document that allows a person to enter the United States for a specific purpose, such as visiting, studying, working, or becoming a permanent resident. Visas fall into two main categories:

• Nonimmigrant Visas: These allow for temporary stays, such as when tourists are visiting the county or when students are attending college.
• Immigrant Visas: These will provide authorization to live in the United States permanently.

Visas typically require sponsorship. Sponsors may include:

• Family Members: U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents can petition for certain relatives to obtain family-based visas.
• Employers: Companies can sponsor workers for employment-based visas. Temporary work visas such as H-1B visas are highly sought after by immigrants in specific fields.
• Government Programs: Some visas are issued to provide humanitarian relief to people who may be at risk, or the U.S. government may promote immigration through specific programs, such as the Diversity Visa Lottery.

At The Estevez Group, PC, we guide clients through the visa application process, helping them understand their eligibility requirements and the steps they will need to follow. We work with immigrants and sponsors to complete applications and address potential challenges that could affect the authorization of visas.

Lawful Permanent Residence and Green Cards

The status of lawful permanent resident, commonly known as having a Green Card, is crucial for those who wish to live and work in the United States indefinitely. Green Card holders enjoy numerous benefits, including the ability to work for most employers in the U.S., authorization to travel outside the country without losing their status, the ability to sponsor immediate family members for immigration, and access to certain federal benefits.

There are several pathways to lawful permanent residency, including:

• Family Sponsorship: Certain family members in the U.S., including citizens and people who have valid Green Cards, can sponsor their loved ones for immigration.
• Employment Sponsorship: Employers can petition for immigrant visas and Green Cards for workers in specific job categories.
• Special Immigration Programs: Certain categories, such as Special Immigrant Juvenile status or humanitarian visas, may provide an immigrant with a Green Card so that they will be protected from harm and will be able to live safely in the United States.

Our firm helps clients determine the best pathway to obtain lawful permanent residence. We provide guidance throughout the application process to help our clients avoid delays or denials.

Becoming a U.S. Citizen

Lawful permanent residents who have lived in the United States for several years may wish to gain the benefits of citizenship. Becoming a U.S. citizen through naturalization offers many advantages, including the right to vote, eligibility for federal jobs, and protection against deportation.

To qualify for U.S. citizenship, applicants must meet specific criteria, including:

• Age: Be at least 18 years old.
• Residency: Hold a Green Card for five years (or three years for spouses of U.S. citizens) and meet requirements for residing in the United States continuously and being physically present in the country.
• Good Moral Character: Comply with U.S. laws while avoiding unlawful or unethical behavior.
• Civics and English Tests: Pass tests on U.S. government and history and basic English proficiency.

Our firm assists clients in preparing for the naturalization process, ensuring they meet all requirements for citizenship while addressing any potential obstacles.

Addressing Other Immigration Issues

In addition to visas, Green Cards, and naturalization, The Estevez Group, PC provides legal assistance for a variety of other immigration matters, including:

Waivers of Inadmissibility

If there are reasons a person may be ineligible for immigration due to prior legal violations, health issues, or other grounds of inadmissibility, a waiver may allow for entry to the U.S. or adjustment of status. We help clients prepare strong waiver applications, addressing the specific issues that have led to inadmissibility and showing that their presence in the United States is needed to help family members avoid hardship.

Humanitarian Protections

We provide compassionate legal assistance for people who have been affected by dangerous or abusive situations, including:

• U Visas: Victims who have suffered physical injuries or emotional abuse due to criminal activity may receive protections based on their willingness to help police officers investigate the crimes in question.
• VAWA Self-Petitions: Survivors of domestic violence can escape abusive situations and avoid the need to secure sponsorship for a visa or Green Card from their abuser.
• Special Immigrant Juvenile (SIJ) Status: Minors under the age of 21 may be able to obtain Green Cards and eventually apply for citizenship if they have been involved in court proceedings that have removed them from the custody of a parent who has committed acts of abuse or neglect.

Contact Our Arlington, VA Employment-Based and Family-Based Immigration Lawyer

When you need help with immigration matters, the attorney at The Estevez Group, PC can provide you with guidance and representation. We will advise you on the best steps to take during your case, and we will advocate for solutions that will protect your best interests. Call us at 703-829-5179 or contact us through our online form to set up your free consultation.