Immigration FAQs

• Abandonment: If you remain outside the U.S. for too long (180 days or more annually). If you reside in another country, you will likely be seen as having abandoned your residency here. Should you be required to stay away for an extended period of time, it is in your best interest to consult with our immigration lawyer about your options.
• Immigration Fraud: If you commit fraud, omit relevant information or your application, assist someone else to commit immigration fraud, your card can be revoked.
• Criminal convictions: Committing serious crimes can result in your being deported and your green card being revoked.

Marriage fraud means that you have entered into a marriage for the sole purpose of obtaining a green card. Marriage fraud is a federal crime punishable by up to five years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000.

If you are already in the U.S., you may be eligible to become a legal permanent resident by filing an Adjustment of Status application without having to leave the country to apply for an immigrant visa. If a current visa number is available, then adjustment of status can be filed at the same time with the family-based or employment-based immigration petition. Some individuals who are in the U.S. are not eligible for this adjustment of status. Consult with Ms. Fakhre to find out what your options are and how to go about accomplishing them.

No, you cannot. You must wait until your visa is issued. Once issued, you can legally be employed in the U.S. and eventually apply for an adjustment of status.

Your application may be denied because the forms were not filled out correctly, supporting documentation is missing, or your eligibility to become a legal permanent resident is in question. Ms. Fakhre, our Jacksonville immigration lawyer, can review your case and help you correct any errors or find other options to help you achieve your goals.

Depending on the country of origin of the immigrant, this process can take several years. An immigration attorney can help make sure all necessary steps are completed along the way, starting with the PERM Labor Certification process to prove there are no U.S. citizens available or suitable for the position to be held by the immigrant worker.

Foreign nationals investing in a commercial enterprise must meet certain criteria to qualify for immigrant investor visas. These individuals must invest a minimum of $1 million USD of their own money, or $500,000 USD if the commercial enterprise is in a rural or high-unemployment area. Within two years, the commercial enterprise must also create at least 10 full-time jobs for U.S. citizens or other individuals legally authorized to work in this country, not including the investor or their immediate family members.