Entering Vermont with authorization
Immigrants have a few options if they want to obtain lawful entry into the U.S. Primary means of legal immigration in Vermont include:
Refugee status- Immigrants who live in war zones or in danger of being persecuted in their home country can ask for asylum in the U.S.
Nonimmigrant visa- A nonimmigrant visa is granted to an immigrant for temporary work or travel in the U.S. Nonimmigrant visas include: The H-1B visa, the H-2A visa, and the H-2B visa.
Immigrant Visas- Permanent or immigrant visas are granted to persons who plan work and live in the U.S. for the long-term and who plan on seeking legal permanent residency or U.S. citizenship. HB-1 work visas for highly skilled college graduates, family visas or fiancé visas are common.
Asylum- Refugees feeling war, persecution or physical danger can ask for asylum. To determine if you or a loved one is eligible for asylum to visit the USCIS website.
Unauthorized immigration in Vermont
Legal immigration is difficult and costly, so some immigrants decide to enter the U.S. without a visa or make the mistake of overstaying a visa. There are consequences for being undocumented including deportation and being banned from visiting the U.S. for three to ten years, sometimes permanently.
Like many states, Vermont participates in a federal immigration program called Secure Communities. When a law enforcement officer arrests someone they suspect of being undocumented, they are required to take their fingerprints and entered into a federal database to check the detainee’s criminal record and immigration status.
The immigration process in Vermont
The immigration process can be difficult and an immigrant can wait months possibly years to get the status they are seeking. The first step in the process is to submit a visa, asylum or green-card application. These applications must be accurate, free of mistakes and omissions and turned in before a deadline. After an immigration submits their application, the may be asked to meet with an immigration agent depending on the status they are seeking. Immigrants are often required to submit financial statements and other documents. Every stage of the immigration process is critical, and any mistakes or missteps can lead a denial of person’s petition.
Immigrating to the U.S. can be challenging but will pay off in the long run. If you need help with a visa application or want to sponsor a loved for a visa, let USAttorneys help you find an immigration lawyer in Vermont. Our outstanding team of attorneys will take whatever steps they must ensure your case is successful.
