Author Archives: Jay Butchko
USCIS Immigration Application Fee Hike in 2024
Prospective immigrants into the United States have many aspects of the immigration process to understand and prepare for. One is the cost. For specific immigration applications, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has determined that it will implement a significant increase in fees. The agency has cited several operational and financial issues as the… Read More »
Can I Travel Abroad Without a Visa if I Have a Green Card?
Wondering about what benefits you can enjoy with a U.S. Green Card beyond the obvious, that is, living and working in the United States, is common. Many people know that a Green Card is the closest thing to U.S. citizenship and naturalization without being a U.S. citizen. As a result, Green Card holders get… Read More »
What is a U Visa and Who Qualifies?
Immigrants in the United States who have been the victims of physical or mental abuse and will cooperate and collaborate with law enforcement could secure a pathway not only to safety but also to stay and work in the United States. As a nonimmigrant visa, U visas are for individuals who want to obtain… Read More »
Comparing Immigrant and Non-Immigrant Visas in the United States
The United States immigration system tends to be quite complex and confusing, especially for those who struggle to understand and speak the English language. If you are planning on seeking permanent status and citizenship or if you only plan to come to the U.S. temporarily for a specific reason, you will need to obtain… Read More »
What Evidence of Financial Ability is Needed for an F-1 or M-1 Student Visa in the USA?
It is expected that if you are applying for either an F-1 or M-1 student visa, you have the financial resources to reside in and take up your studies in the United States. What does this mean? It means that you must be able to pay for your living expenses, your travel, as well… Read More »
The Number 1 Reason U.S. Visas are Denied
There are several visas that you can apply for to come to the United States. However, the U.S. immigration system can be complex, and so it can be incredibly difficult to understand the requirements necessary to properly apply for a specific visa and be successful in having it granted. The first problem is determining… Read More »
Gaining Practical Industry Experience Through STEM OPT
If you are an F-1 student in the United States and the program of study you are enrolled in is an approved STEM field, then you may be eligible for STEM OPT (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics optional practical training) extension. This is a 24-month temporary extension for training related to your STEM program… Read More »
How Long Does it Take An EB-5 Visa Applicant to Get a Green Card in the United States?
Coming to the United States via the EB-5 investor visa is possible. This visa, which was introduced back in 1990, is meant to attract foreign capital that can be funneled into the United States economy and support employment opportunities. There are specific criteria that must be met to qualify for the EB-5 visa. If… Read More »
How Many People Have a Green Card Through a Family Member in the United States?
Your family member may be able to help you come to the United States. Every year, individuals in the United States allow their residence and status in the country to help family members come and live as U.S. Lawful Permanent Residents (LPRs). There are over 810,000 immigrants who apply for such status through a… Read More »
What to Expect from the American Citizenship Test
Congratulations are in order if you have made it to the point where you are ready to take the American citizenship test. Citizenship is within the reach of your fingertips. The American citizenship test marks the last step, outside of taking the oath, that is necessary to officially become a brand new citizen of… Read More »