Should I hire an immigration lawyer USA?

Asked by: Amanda Bogan  |  Last update: November 22, 2023
Score: 5/5 (72 votes)

Because the terminology used in immigration documents can be difficult to understand, and because laws regarding immigration are often complex, it's wise to consider hiring an immigration attorney to handle the many issues and sectors involved with immigrating to the United States.

How much does it cost to hire an immigration lawyer in the US?

The total fee in a simple case could be as low as $1,500, or in a complex case can climb higher than $15,000. If you need to appeal your case, expect to pay even more. If the lawyer quotes an hourly rate instead, expect to pay between $150 and $600 per hour.

Can an immigration lawyer help you get a US visa?

They will usually need to file a petition to grant you entry into the US and then you will also need to submit a visa application yourself. Your immigration attorney can work with you and your US sponsor throughout the application process.

Should I take a lawyer to my immigration interview?

An Immigration Lawyer Can Help You Avoid Making Mistakes

At your interview, presenting the requested documents and necessary information is crucial for approval. Otherwise, it might take weeks or months for the USCIS to issue a Notice of Intent to Deny or Request for Evidence.

Do you need a lawyer to immigrate to the US?

You don't always need an immigration lawyer when applying for a green card. However, immigration attorneys will make the process much smoother and less stressful and ensure you've dotted your T's and crossed your I's.

When do you need to hire an Immigration lawyer : USA Immigration Lawyer 🇺🇸

44 related questions found

Why is it so hard to legally immigrate to the US?

The government's restrictive criteria render legal paths of immigration available in only the most extreme cases. America traditionally had few immigration restrictions, but since the 1920s, the law has banned most aspiring immigrants.

How much does it cost to apply to immigrate to the US?

The government filing fees for getting a family-based green card is $1760 for an applicant living in the United States or $1200 for an applicant living outside the United States. This does not include the typical cost of the required medical examination, which varies by provider.

Does having an immigration lawyer speed up process?

While an immigration attorney cannot per say “speed up” your case, the immigration attorney is knowledgeable in immigration law and will know the best strategy and options for your case. Undeniably, this avoids any unreasonable delay by anyone lacking specialized knowledge in this area of law.

What should you not say in an immigration interview?

THE DON'Ts. DON'T joke around with the USCIS officer. In particular, avoid joking or sarcasm related to drug dealing, communicable diseases, bigamy, or smuggling people into the country. DON'T argue with your spouse or other family members in the middle of an interview.

Do I need a lawyer for my green card interview?

While going to a green card interview without legal counsel is conceivable, there are several circumstances where doing so can be advantageous. First, if a candidate has a complicated immigration history or legal background, one reason to take hiring an attorney into account is for a green card interview.

How can I speed up my immigration process?

When you call to request expedited processing, the USCIS Contact Center creates and forwards a service request to the office with jurisdiction over your application or petition. After receiving the service request, the reviewing office may request additional documentation to support expedited processing.

Can a US representative help with immigration?

My office is able to help constituents who are experiencing issues with federal agencies. While I cannot force an agency to act in someone's favor, I can help facilitate a fair hearing for a case.

What does a US immigration lawyer do?

Immigration lawyers represent individual and business clients before the USCIS, the Board of Immigration Appeals, and in Immigration Courts and the federal circuit courts on issues dealing with immigration, emigration, visas, green cards, adjustment of status, political asylum, and other important immigration and ...

How do I find a US immigration lawyer?

There are many ways to find lawyers:

Check the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) website, click Immigration Lawyer Referral Service. Call your local bar association lawyer referral service. In King County, contact the King County Bar Association at 206-267-7100.

How long does the process of immigration take?

You will find out when your priority date appears in the U.S. Department of State's Visa Bulletin. After that, you can apply for a green card from within the United States or at a U.S. consulate abroad. It generally takes about two years for a green card to become available, and the whole process can take three years.

How much does it cost to get a green card for marriage?

Marriage-Based Green Card Cost

The government filing fees for applying for a marriage-based green card is $1760 for a spouse living in the United States or $1200 for a spouse living outside the United States. Note, this does not include the cost of the medical examination, which varies from roughly $200 to $500.

What can cause you to fail at the immigration interview?

Citizenship Denial Reasons
  • Having a Criminal Record. ...
  • Failing to Provide Child Care and Support. ...
  • Failing to Pay Taxes. ...
  • Committing Fraud on Your Citizenship Application. ...
  • Not Meeting Physical Presence Requirements. ...
  • Failing Your English or Civics Test During the Interview Process. ...
  • Forgetting Selective Service Registration.

Is it possible to fail green card interview?

If you fail the first interview, then you must get ready for a long waiting period before a second interview appointment is scheduled.

Can you fail a green card interview?

If you do not pass the green card interview, USCIS may investigate your case further. Additionally, USCIS may provide you with the opportunity to submit additional evidence. They may otherwise issue a Notice of Intent to Deny your Green Card application.

Can a lawyer get you a green card faster?

A lawyer may be able to help you determine what the average wait time is for green card processing in your category. Additionally, they can help identify potential reasons for submitting an expedite request that may successfully accelerate the green card process.

How long does it take for immigration to approve a case?

The current wait time for Form I-130 is 12.4 months. Form I-485 (“Application for Adjustment of Status”): Family-based green card applications (in other words, immediate relatives or spouses of a U.S. citizen) for applicants filing from within the United States average 11.7 months.

What can I do if my immigration case is taking too long?

What To Do When You Haven't Heard Back About Your Application
  1. Check Your Case Status Online. ...
  2. Call A USCIS Customer Service Representative. ...
  3. Make An Appointment With A USCIS Agent. ...
  4. Write A Letter To Your Local USCIS Supervisor Asking For Clarification On Your Case. ...
  5. Contact An Immigration Lawyer And File A Lawsuit.

What is the best age to immigrate to USA?

However, one could also argue that there is such a thing as 'the best age to migrate'. The popular belief is that migrating under the age of 30 or even in your early 20s straight after completing any higher education is ideal for most people.

What is the fastest way to immigrate to America?

For example, family-based immigration is a great option for people who have family members in the U.S. already. The entire process is relatively fast, depending on the circumstances, and is not very costly. If you don't have family members in the U.S., your second best option is employment-based immigration.