Visas
The overwhelming majority of immigrants enter the U.S. with an immigrant or nonimmigrant visa depending on the reason for their visit and how long they plan to stay. There are nearly two dozen immigrant and nonimmigrant visas for
Nonimmigrant visas, which are reserved for temporary travel or work in Michigan, include:
- Travel visa
- H-1B- Issued to highly-skilled workers with a bachelor’s degree or higher.
- H-2B – Issued for temporary work in the agricultural and hospitality industries.
- H-3B- Trainee or special education visitor
Immigrant visas, which are granted to individuals who plan to live in the U.S., include:
- IR1 and CR1- Spouse of U.S. citizen
- K-1 Fiancé of U.S. citizen
- DV- Diversity Visa
The State Department issued 617,752 immigrant visas in 2015.
You can learn more about the different U.S. visas the State Department offers by visiting their website.
Green cards and citizenship
The goal of many immigrants is to become a legal permanent resident (green card holder) or a U.S. citizens.
In 2014, the USCIS gave legal permanent residency to 990,553 immigrants, according to the Migration Policy Institute. An LPR or green card holder can live in U.S. as long as the choose and travel freely to other countries. They can also sponsor a family member for immigration and are granted work authorization.
Fewer immigrants become U.S. citizens than legal permanent residents. Only to 645, 949 immigrants who went through the arduous process of naturalization. Becoming a U.S. takes dedication and perseverance because an immigrant must first establish residency, submit to biometrics and pass a civics test. Immigrants who strive to become a U.S. citizens should have the assistance of a lawyer.
If you have questions about immigrating to Michigan, USAttorneys recommends you get the advice of a legal expert. Set up a consultation with an immigration lawyer in Michigan.
