Category: Myth Vs Fact

Mythbuster Monday

3/24/2025

Myth: Immigrants automatically become U.S. citizens after a certain period.

Reality: Immigrants must go through a legal naturalization process to become U.S. citizens. Simply living in the country for a long time doesn’t grant citizenship. Green card holders can apply for citizenship after meeting certain residency and other requirements.

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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Myth Buster Monday

3/17/2025

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While it may seem like requesting a visa extension is a simple process, approval is not guaranteed. Extensions can be denied if there are violations of visa terms, changes in immigration laws, or issues with supporting documentation. Even if you meet eligibility requirements, it is crucial to submit your extension request on time and ensure all documentation is correct.
Staying informed about the rules and filing your request in advance can help you avoid complications that may affect your legal status. Always be proactive in managing your visa and legal requirements to ensure a smooth process.

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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Myth vs Fact

2/26/2025

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MYTH: Immigrants receive more government benefits than U.S. citizens.

FACT: Immigrants, including those you are undocumented, are generally not eligible for more government benefits, such as welfare, food stamps, and Medicaid. These benefits are primarily reserved for U.S. citizens and certain categories of legal immigrants. While some immigrants may qualify for limited assistance under specific circumstances, the overall eligibility for public benefits is largely restricted.

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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Myth vs Fact

2/19/2025

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MYTH: It is easy to enter the U.S. legally.

FACT:

Entering the U.S. legally is often a complex and lengthy process. Whether it is applying for a tourist visa, work visa, student visa, or seeking asylum, each requires meeting strict criteria and going through multiple steps. For instance, visa applications often involve extensive documentation, interviews, long waiting periods and can be very expensive. Asylum seekers must prove they have a credible fear of persecution in their home country, adding another layer of complexity. The increasing scrutiny of asylum claims, combined with policy changes, has also made it harder for many people to seek refuge in the U.S. through legal means. Additionally, there are quotas, legal restrictions, and potential delays, making legal entry more difficult than many people realize. All of these factors contribute to the reality that entering the U.S. legally is a difficult and often uncertain process.

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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Myth vs Fact: "Immigrants do not pay taxes."

2/12/2025

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Immigrants, regardless of their legal status, pay a wide range of taxes, including sales tax, property tax, and income tax. Undocumented immigrants also contribute to Social Security and Medicare through payroll taxes, even though they can't access those benefits.

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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Myth vs Fact: "The H-1B Program is Riddled with Abuse and Fraud”

2/5/2025

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Fact: The H-1B program has strict safeguards in place to prevent abuse and fraud. Employers are required to notify U.S. employees that they are hiring an H-1B position and are offering fair wages for the position. If any fraud or abuse is discovered, the penalties can be severe. Let’s break down a bit more about how these protocols work:

1. Fair Wages
The employer must pay the H-1B worker the same wages as a similarly employed U.S. worker for that position, ensuring there is no exploitation. This is known as the “prevailing wage” rule. It is a key measure that prevents companies from undercutting U.S. salaries and incentivizes the hiring of qualified foreign talent without disadvantaging American workers.

2. Severe Penalties for Fraud or Abuse
The H-1B program is enforced with serious consequences for those who misuse it. Employers caught engaging in fraudulent practices, such as submitting false documentation or attempting to underpay workers, can face hefty fines, disqualification from the program, or even criminal charges. These penalties act as a strong deterrent against potential abuse, ensuring that the system remains fair and transparent.

These safeguards preserve the program’s integrity while enabling U.S. companies to tap into top global talent, driving economic growth and enhancing America’s global competitiveness.

If you have any questions regarding H-1Bs, please drop them in the comments.

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Myth: Getting a Green Card is Easy

1/29/2025

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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].

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Mythbuster Monday

Myth: Immigrants automatically become U.S. citizens after a certain period.

Myth Buster Monday

Myth vs Fact

Myth vs Fact

MYTH: It is easy to enter the U.S. legally.

Myth vs Fact: "Immigrants do not pay taxes."

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].

Myth vs Fact: "The H-1B Program is Riddled with Abuse and Fraud”

Myth: Getting a Green Card is Easy

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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Mythbuster Monday

Myth: Immigrants automatically become U.S. citizens after a certain period. ​

Myth Buster Monday

Myth vs Fact

Myth vs Fact

MYTH: It is easy to enter the U.S. legally.

Myth vs Fact: "Immigrants do not pay taxes."

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].

Myth vs Fact: "The H-1B Program is Riddled with Abuse and Fraud”

Myth: Getting a Green Card is Easy

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].

Archives

Categories

FIRM

SERVICES

LEGAL

Myth: Immigrants automatically become U.S. citizens after a certain period.