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As a non U.S. citizen residing in the United States, it is required by law that you carry your immigration documents on your person at all times. These documents such as—your I-94 Card, EAD Card, or Green Card—confirm your legal status in the U.S. and should help ensure smoother interactions with police or other authorities if needed. Although not required by law, we also recommend carrying your passport, or at least a copy of your passport, either on your phone or a printed paper copy. Due to the approval of expedited removal, which means you can be removed from the U.S. without any judicial review, we are also advising U.S. citizens and Legal Permanent Residents, especially if you might appear “foreign” or have an accent, to carry proof of your U.S. citizenship as well. Your driver’s license does not prove your citizenship. If you have any questions, feel free to drop them in the comments below or send us an email. We are here to help! If you have questions about your visa status or if you are an employer exploring immigration options, we are here to help. At the Law Office of Julia L. Stommes, we are committed to helping individuals and businesses navigate complex legal landscapes. The information provided in this blog is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. To schedule a Consultation to discuss your legal immigration options, please email us at [email protected].
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'Harnessing the power of technology and collaboration to support immigrants and their allies.' The Immigration Advocates Network provides nonprofits and pro bono attorneys with essential legal resources to better serve immigrant communities. #ImmigrationResources #ProBono #NonprofitSupport #ImmigrantAdvocacy  Myth: "It is so easy to get a Green Card!" Fact: Getting a Green Card is not easy—and it is definitely not quick. The process can take anywhere from 9 months to over 10 years, depending on your situation (family sponsorship, employment-based, asylum, etc.). It involves multiple steps, including background checks, interviews, and waiting for visa numbers to become available. In some cases, you could be waiting years, often separated from loved ones, before receiving approval.  If you have questions about your visa status or if you are an employer exploring immigration options, we are here to help. At the Law Office of Julia L. Stommes, we are committed to helping individuals and businesses navigate complex legal landscapes. The information provided in this blog is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. To schedule a Consultation to discuss your legal immigration options, please email us at [email protected].Three (3) Immigration Documents You Must Carry at All Times according to U.S. law (8 CFR § 264.1(b))Most Recent I-94 Form: This document shows when you arrived in the U.S. and your legal entry status. You can print your I-94 Departure Record directly from the CBP website. Green Card: Your permanent resident card serves as evidence of lawful permanent residency (LPR) in the U.S. EAD Card: Your Employment Authorization Document (EAD) proves you are authorized to work in the U.S. U.S. law (8 CFR § 264.1(b)) requires you to carry your immigration documents at all times to verify your legal status. Failing to have them on hand when requested by authorities could lead to complications or legal issues. Make sure you're always prepared and stay in compliance. If you have questions about your visa status or if you are an employer exploring immigration options, we are here to help. At the Law Office of Julia L. Stommes, we are committed to helping individuals and businesses navigate complex legal landscapes. The information provided in this blog is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. To schedule a Consultation to discuss your legal immigration options, please email us at [email protected].  Q: How can I verify if someone is a real immigration attorney? A:
If you have questions about your visa status or if you are an employer exploring immigration options, we are here to help. At the Law Office of Julia L. Stommes, we are committed to helping individuals and businesses navigate complex legal landscapes. The information provided in this blog is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. To schedule a Consultation to discuss your legal immigration options, please email us at [email protected].We understand how overwhelming immigration policy changes can be—especially during times of significant shifts. That is why we are committed to helping our community stay informed. Every week, we will be posting videos breaking down the latest updates on employment and family-based immigration, and enforcement policies. We will share the facts to help you understand how these changes may affect you and your loved ones. Navigating immigration can be challenging, but you don’t have to do it alone. Stay tuned for weekly updates—we’re here to support you. If you have any questions, please leave them in the comments below or send us an email. If you have questions about your visa status or if you are an employer exploring immigration options, we are here to help. At the Law Office of Julia L. Stommes, we are committed to helping individuals and businesses navigate complex legal landscapes. The information provided in this blog is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. To schedule a Consultation to discuss your legal immigration options, please email us at [email protected].Need help understanding your immigration options? The Immigrant Legal Resource Center (ILRC) offers free resources, guides, and webinars to help immigrants and advocates navigate the U.S. immigration system. From understanding visa processes to knowing your rights under current laws, ILRC provides accessible, expert-backed information to support you at every stage of your immigration journey. Check it out to stay informed and empowered!  If you have questions about your visa status or if you are an employer exploring immigration options, we are here to help. At the Law Office of Julia L. Stommes, we are committed to helping individuals and businesses navigate complex legal landscapes. The information provided in this blog is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. To schedule a Consultation to discuss your legal immigration options, please email us at [email protected].Fact: H-4 visa holders are not taking jobs away from U.S. citizens or permanent residents. In fact, the vast majority of H-4 visa holders are highly educated professionals, many with advanced degrees, who contribute to sectors with high demand for skilled labor—like technology, healthcare, and engineering. The Employment Authorization Document (EAD) for eligible H-4 visa holders allows them to work legally in the U.S. but that does not mean they are displacing U.S. workers. Research has shown that granting work authorization to H-4 visa holders can benefit the U.S. economy by increasing household income, boosting tax revenue, and helping businesses retain skilled talent in industries that face labor shortages. Moreover, the work performed by H-4 visa holders is often in specialized fields where the U.S. workforce has gaps, meaning they are filling positions that would otherwise remain unfilled. In some cases, H-4 visa holders help companies grow, which can lead to the creation of more American jobs. The information provided in this blog is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. To schedule a Consultation to discuss your legal immigration options, please email us at [email protected]. We understand how crucial it is to navigate the complexities of immigration law, especially during times of significant policy shifts. Our team is dedicated to offering practical guidance based on the latest developments, ensuring that you have the resources necessary to make informed decisions about your immigration status or case. We are committed to sharing information that is grounded in facts and legal precedent. Whether it’s updates to visa programs, family-based immigration policies, or changes in enforcement, we are here to help you understand how these shifts may impact you and your loved ones. If you have questions about your visa status or if you are an employer exploring immigration options, we are here to help. At the Law Office of Julia L. Stommes, we are committed to helping individuals and businesses navigate complex legal landscapes. The information provided in this blog is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. To schedule a Consultation to discuss your legal immigration options, please email us at [email protected]. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has raised I-9 penalties, with fines now ranging from $2,304 to $65,661 per violation! Don't let your business face costly mistakes—ensure your I-9 records are fully compliant. Need guidance or help navigating these changes? We are here to assist! #I9Compliance #DHS #ImmigrationLaw #AvoidFines #WorkplaceCompliance #EmployerAlert The information provided in this blog is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. To schedule a Consultation to discuss your legal immigration options, please email us at [email protected].
If you are facing delays or unfair treatment by a federal agency (like the USCIS or the Department of State), reaching out to your State Senator or Congressional Representative may help. Here is a simple guide on how to request their assistance:Step 1: Exhaust All Options with the Federal Agency Before contacting a Senator or Representative, ensure you've already reached out to the federal agency (e.g., USCIS, Department of State) and received no response or unsatisfactory results. Document your attempts, including emails, calls, and case numbers. Step 2: Find Your State Senator or Congressional Representative To identify your Congressional Representative, visit (https://www.house.gov) and enter your ZIP code. You can also seek help from your State Senator. Step 3: Visit the Legislator’s Website Go to your chosen Senator's or Representative's official website and look for a "Services" or "Help with a Federal Agency" section, where you'll find the option to request assistance. Step 4: Complete the Privacy Release Form Most offices require you to fill out a Privacy Release Form, allowing them to inquire on your behalf. Follow the instructions carefully to complete and submit the form. Step 5: Provide All Relevant Information Include essential details on the form, such as your full name, date of birth, address, case information, the federal agency involved, and the desired outcome. Important Notes: Requesting assistance from a legislator doesn't guarantee approval or faster processing but may help get your case the attention it needs. You should only contact ONE office. Contacting multiple offices could cause confusion and delays. Let’s Discuss How We Can Help You or Your Company If you have questions about your visa status or if you are an employer exploring immigration options, we are here to help. At the Law Office of Julia L. Stommes, we are committed to helping individuals and businesses navigate complex legal landscapes. The information provided in this blog is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. To schedule a Consultation to discuss your legal immigration options, please email us at [email protected].The H-1B visa is one of the most well-known visa programs for foreign professionals seeking to work in the U.S., but it’s also surrounded by myths and misconceptions. If you’ve recently been hearing about the H-1B Visa and are curious about the process, it’s important to separate fact from fiction. Here are some common myths about the H-1B visa:
1. Myth: The H-1B Visa is Only for Tech Workers While the H-1B visa is often associated with the tech industry, it is not limited to tech jobs. The visa is for specialty occupations in fields like engineering, finance, healthcare, education, and business. 2. Myth: You Can Apply for an H-1B Visa at Any Time The H-1B visa process follows a strict annual timeline. Petitions can only be filed between April and June each year, and the visa is capped at 85,000 new applicants annually (65,000 for regular applications and 20,000 for those with advanced U.S. degrees). If you miss the filing period, you’ll have to wait until the next year. 3. Myth: H-1B Workers Are Paid Low Wages Another myth is that employers pay H-1B workers lower wages compared to U.S. employees. In fact, U.S. law requires that H-1B workers be paid the prevailing wage* for their occupation and location, ensuring they are compensated fairly. Employers must submit a Labor Condition Application (LCA) to the Department of Labor, confirming that the wage offered meets or exceeds the industry standard. 4. Myth: The H-1B Visa Automatically Leads to a Green Card The H-1B visa is a temporary, non-immigrant visa that allows workers to stay in the U.S. for up to six years. It does not automatically lead to permanent residency (a Green Card). To transition from an H-1B to a Green Card, individuals must go through a separate process, typically involving employer sponsorship. 5. Myth: H-1B Workers Take Jobs Away from U.S. Citizens Research shows that H-1B workers fill important skill gaps in the U.S. economy, particularly in fields like technology, engineering, and healthcare, where there is a shortage of qualified domestic workers. In fact, the presence of skilled foreign workers helps companies grow, create new jobs, and maintain global competitiveness. 6. Myth: H-1B Workers Must Stay with Their Initial Employer While the H-1B visa is tied to a specific employer, workers can transfer their H-1B status to a new employer as long as that employer files a petition with USCIS. This gives workers flexibility to change jobs without losing their visa status, though the new employer must be approved by USCIS first. The H-1B visa plays a crucial role in strengthening the U.S. economy by attracting highly skilled professionals from around the world. By filling essential roles in industries like technology, healthcare, and engineering, H-1B workers help drive innovation, improve productivity, and support U.S. businesses in maintaining global competitiveness. The program not only benefits employers but also contributes to job creation and economic growth across the country. Understanding the facts behind the H-1B visa highlights just how integral it is to the future success of the U.S. workforce. Do you have any questions about the H-1B visa? Drop them in the comments below. The H-1B visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows U.S. employers to hire foreign workers in specialty occupations requiring theoretical or technical expertise. The H-1B visa program not only helps fill critical skill gaps but also creates American jobs by supporting the growth and expansion of U.S. companies. When foreign workers with specialized expertise join American businesses, they often help drive innovation, improve productivity, and enable companies to compete globally. The process of applying for an H-1B visa can be complex and requires careful navigation. Here are the key steps involved in applying for an H-1B visa: 1. Employer Petition The first step in the H-1B process is the employer’s responsibility to file a petition on behalf of the foreign worker. Employers must demonstrate that the position qualifies as a specialty occupation and that the employee meets the educational and professional qualifications. 2. Labor Condition Application (LCA) Before filing the petition with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), the employer must submit a Labor Condition Application (LCA) to the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL). This application confirms that the employer will pay the worker the required prevailing wage for the role and that the worker's employment will not negatively affect the working conditions of U.S. workers. 3. The Lottery System Because there are only 85,000 H-1B visas available each year (65,000 for regular petitions and 20,000 for those with advanced degrees from U.S. institutions), applicants are often selected through a lottery system. The lottery occurs in April, and if selected, the petition is processed further. 4. USCIS Processing Once the petition is selected in the lottery, USCIS processes it. This may involve reviewing the petition, requesting additional documentation, or conducting an interview. The processing times vary, but it typically takes several months. 5. Approval or Denial If approved, the worker can begin or continue employment under the H-1B visa for an initial period of up to three years, with the possibility of extension for a maximum of six years. 6. Start Date Once the H-1B visa is granted, the employee can start working in the U.S. typically beginning October 1 of the year their petition is approved. Let’s Discuss How We Can Help You or Your Company If you have questions about your visa status or if you are an employer exploring immigration options, we are here to help. At the Law Office of Julia L. Stommes, we are committed to helping individuals and businesses navigate complex legal landscapes. The information provided in this blog is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. To schedule a Consultation to discuss your legal immigration options, please email us at [email protected].Temporary Protected Status (TPS) is a humanitarian immigration program in the United States that provides temporary relief from deportation and grants work authorization to nationals of countries experiencing extraordinary conditions such as ongoing armed conflict, natural disasters, or other crises. TPS allows individuals to stay in the U.S. for a designated period without fear of being removed, while their home country is in turmoil. How TPS Works in the U.S. When the U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security designates a country for Temporary Protected Status, nationals of that country who are already in the U.S. can apply for this status, as long as they meet eligibility requirements. These typically include proof of continuous residence and physical presence in the U.S. during a specific period. TPS does not lead directly to a green card or permanent residency, it does, however, allow recipients to live and work legally in the U.S. for the duration of the designation. If the situation in the designated country improves, the TPS designation may end, and individuals may be required to return home. TPS in Other Countries The concept of Temporary Protected Status is not unique to the U.S. Several other countries have adopted similar programs, offering temporary relief for people fleeing unsafe conditions. For example:
The global framework for temporary protection recognizes the need for international cooperation in addressing the challenges posed by refugees, asylum seekers, and people displaced due to crises. While each country's program has its unique rules and procedures, the goal is the same: providing a safe haven for people who cannot return home due to unsafe conditions. The information provided in this blog is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. To schedule a Consultation to discuss your legal immigration options, please email us at [email protected]. The USCIS will release a new version of Form I-129 on January 17th. Please be aware that no grace period will be provided. Starting January 17, 2025, only the updated version of Form I-129 will be accepted. Let’s Discuss How We Can Help You or Your Company If you have questions about your visa status or if you are an employer exploring immigration options, we are here to help. At the Law Office of Julia L. Stommes, we are committed to helping individuals and businesses navigate complex legal landscapes. The information provided in this blog is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. To schedule a Consultation to discuss your legal immigration options, please email us at [email protected]. |
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