Dallas Immigration Lawyers

The Fundamentals of U.S. Immigration Law

Provided by the Attorneys at Bailey & Galyen

If you are a foreign national, seeking entry into the United States or looking to protect your status as a resident, the entire process can be very confusing. This page provides a general overview of how immigration works in the United States. To discuss your specific concerns with an experienced immigration lawyer, contact Bailey & Galyen or call our offices at one of the numbers listed below.

For more specific information about immigration matters, see the following pages:

• the basic laws governing immigration

• immigrant and non-immigrant visas

• the government's role in immigration

• removal or deportation proceedings

An Overview of the Immigration Process

The essential aspects of the immigration process include

• immigrant and non-immigrant visas

• citizenship and naturalization

• removal or deportation

Immigrant and Non-Immigrant Visas

Under U. S. immigration laws, you may apply for permanent or temporary residency status.

Permanent residency status is generally available based on a family or work relationship. Family-based visas are available to children, spouses, parents or siblings or U.S. citizens or permanent residents. Employment-based visas are available for a broad range of occupations and professions, but customarily require that the employer obtain a labor certification with the U.S. Department of Labor. You may also seek permanent resident status based on investment in a commercial enterprise in the United States.

Temporary or non-immigrant visas are granted to people who seek entry into America for a specific purpose, and include student visas, exchange visas, travel visas, intra-company transfers, and other temporary work visas.

You may seek to change your status from temporary to permanent, and may also seek to extend the term of your visa.

Citizenship and Naturalization

If you have lived in America for five years, you may be eligible to have all rights as a citizen. You must demonstrate an ability to read, write and speak English and must pass a U.S. history and civics exam. Because you must also be "of good moral character," certain criminal convictions may prevent you from obtaining citizenship.

Deportation or Removal Proceedings

If, as a foreign national, you violate state or federal laws in the United States, or the terms of your visa, the Department of Homeland Security can seek to have you deported from the United States. If deported, you may be prevented from ever returning, even to visit.

Contact Bailey & Galyen

We can also answer your questions regarding

• the diversity lottery

• dual citizenship

• asylum and refugee status

• the PERM process

• visa waivers

Contact our office or call us at one of the numbers listed below for a free initial consultation.