Immigrating to a new country can be a complex and overwhelming process, particularly when it comes to navigating the legal requirements and procedures involved. For individuals seeking to live, work, study, or reunite with loved ones in Texas, engaging the knowledge and capability of a skilled immigration attorney can be invaluable. Today, we will discuss the various ways in which a Texas immigration attorney can assist you in making your immigration dreams a reality. 

Individualized Immigration Strategy 

One of the primary benefits of hiring a Texas immigration attorney is the ability to develop a customized immigration strategy tailored to your unique circumstances. An experienced attorney will assess your eligibility for different visa categories and provide professional advice on the most suitable route. Whether you are pursuing family-based immigration, employment-based immigration, asylum, or any other immigration status, a knowledgeable attorney will guide you through the process and help you navigate potential roadblocks. 

Application Preparation and Review

Immigration applications are riddled with complex forms, extensive documentation, and specific requirements that must be met to avoid costly delays or even denials. A Texas immigration attorney can assist you in compiling, organizing, and submitting error-free applications supported by strong evidence. They will review your forms, ensure accuracy and completeness, and provide guidance on gathering the necessary supporting documents. By entrusting this responsibility to a skilled attorney, you greatly enhance your chances of a successful application. 

The dream of working in the United States is common among many people in other countries, and foreign workers may pursue employment opportunities that will allow them to support themselves and their families. In many cases, foreign workers may qualify for non-immigrant visas that will allow them to live and work in the U.S. temporarily. For some immigrants, this may serve as a stepping stone to permanent residence and eventual U.S. citizenship. Foreign workers will need to understand the different types of employment-based non-immigrant visas that may be available and the requirements they must meet when applying for these types of visas.

Types of Temporary Work Visas

Employment-based visas will require sponsorship from an employer in the United States, and they will provide a person with authorization to enter the U.S. and remain in the country for a certain period of time. Some common types of employment-based non-immigrant visas include:

• H-1B visas - This is perhaps the best-known type of non-immigrant visa, and it is primarily granted to foreign workers who are qualified to work in “specialty occupations” that require at least a bachelor’s degree or equivalent level of education or experience. Examples of such occupations include engineers, doctors, and computer programmers. H-1B visas are granted for up to three years, and they can be extended for an additional three years.

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Immigrants who come to the United States often face many challenges as they try to reunite with their families, establish living arrangements, find work, and maintain a legal immigration status. In some cases, criminal convictions can impact an immigration case, and they may play a role in determining whether a person will be eligible to receive a visa or Green Card and whether any issues related to inadmissibility will need to be addressed. By understanding how different types of convictions may be addressed during immigration proceedings, immigrants and their family members can take steps to protect against deportation and make sure they will be able to enter or continue living in the United States.

Criminal Convictions as Grounds for Inadmissibility

There are a variety of issues that could cause a person to be deemed inadmissible to the United States. If a person is inadmissible, they will not be permitted to enter the U.S., and an application for a visa may be denied. For immigrants who are currently living in the United States, grounds for inadmissibility may be reasons for immigration officials to pursue deportation or to deny any forms of relief that would allow them to avoid leaving the country.

Certain types of criminal convictions are considered to be grounds for inadmissibility. These include:

Facing the possibility of deportation can be a daunting experience for any immigrant. The thought of being forced to leave the United States and return to a potentially unsafe country while being separated from one's family and community can be incredibly frightening. However, the U.S. legal system provides multiple ways for immigrants to fight against deportation. In many cases, this will involve making an argument to an immigration judge for why a person should be allowed to remain in the United States. However, even if a judge rules against a person and puts a deportation order in place, it may still be possible to appeal this decision.

Understanding the Immigration Appeals Process

A ruling by an immigration judge can usually be appealed, and a person can request to have their case reviewed by the Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA). However, it is important to note that there are strict deadlines for filing an appeal with the BIA. Appeals must be made within 30 days after the immigration judge's decision, and the Board must receive a Notice of Appeal within the applicable 30-day deadline. If an oral decision was issued in immigration court, a Notice of Appeal must be received within 30 days after the date of the decision. If a written decision was issued, a Notice of Appeal must be received within 30 days after the date the decision was mailed to the immigrant.

When filing a Notice of Appeal, it is crucial to provide detailed information about the reasons for the appeal. An immigrant will need to specify why they disagree with the ruling by the immigration judge, including any disputes about the facts of the case or the interpretation of the applicable immigration laws. They will need to identify the specific facts they are challenging and cite the laws, court rulings, or other legal authorities that may affect their case. If their appeal is related to humanitarian relief or other forms of discretionary relief, they will need to detail the specific issues related to their eligibility for relief or the exercise of discretion.

Over the past several years, immigration officials in the United States have used a policy known as Title 42 to expel many immigrants who entered the country without authorization. Title 42 was implemented in 2020 by the administration of President Donald Trump, and it was meant to help limit the spread of COVID-19 by immigrants entering the U.S. As of May 11, 2023, the United States has officially ended the COVID-19 public health emergency, and this means that Title 42 will no longer be in effect. As more immigrants continue to attempt to enter the United States, lawmakers and other officials are looking to implement reforms that will address ongoing concerns about immigration.

Policies That Address Increases in Migrants Seeking to Enter the U.S.

The Department of Homeland Security has emphasized that the end of Title 42 does not mean the United States has "open borders." However, misinformation about U.S. immigration policies has led many migrants to leave their home countries and seek to enter the United States. Currently, border officials apprehend several thousand people each day as they attempt to enter the country without authorization.

To address ongoing concerns about immigration, the administration of President Joe Biden has sought to implement new policies that will give some immigrants a legal pathway to enter and work in the United States. Immigrants who wish to apply for asylum can do so before entering the country by scheduling appointments through a smartphone app. People from certain countries may be eligible for parole, allowing them to live and work in the U.S. for two years after receiving sponsorship from a family member or employer in the United States. In an attempt to limit illegal immigration, the administration has also put a new rule in place that will make those who enter the country without authorization ineligible for asylum.