Immigration is a big step. Whether starting a new life, reuniting with loved ones, or seeking safety, understanding your options makes the process smoother and less stressful.
In the U.S., immigration is a complex system. Knowing what type of case fits your situation is essential, given that many paths are available. If unsure, the experienced immigration lawyers at Brooks Law Firm can help guide you.
Let’s break down the most common types of immigration cases.
Family-Based Immigration
Many people move to the U.S. to be with family. Family-based immigration helps loved ones stay together.
There are two main types:
- Immediate relatives: It includes spouses, parents, and unmarried children under 21 of U.S. citizens.
- Family preference categories: These are for siblings, married children, and relatives of green card holders. Wait times for these can be longer.
Family members in the U.S. must file a petition and show they can financially support their relative.
Employment-Based Immigration
Some people come to the U.S. for work. These cases often need a job offer and approval from the government.
Common work visa types include:
- H-1B: For skilled workers like engineers and IT specialists.
- L-1: For people moving within a company from another country.
- O-1: For people with special science, art, or sports skills.
- EB categoriesare green cards for workers, from top talent (EB-1) to investors (EB-5).
Employers usually sponsor these visas, and the worker may need to meet specific education or experience levels.
Humanitarian Immigration Cases
The U.S. also helps people in danger. Humanitarian cases protect those facing harm or crisis.
Some types include:
- Asylum and refugee status: For people fleeing their country because of fear, war, or persecution.
- Temporary Protected Status (TPS): For people from countries facing disaster or war.
- U visas: For victims of certain crimes who help police with investigations.
- T visas: For victims of human trafficking.
- VAWA petitions: For people abused by a U.S. citizen or permanent resident spouse or parent.
Each case type has special rules and deadlines, so quick action is essential.
Student and Exchange Visas
Students from around the world come to the U.S. to study or take part in exchange programs.
Types of student visas include:
- F-1: For students attending schools, colleges, or universities.
- M-1: For those studying at vocational or technical schools.
- J-1: For people in work-and-learn exchange programs.
Students must study full-time and may only work in certain situations. These temporary visas require students to return home or apply for a different visa after completing their program.
Investment-Based Immigration
Some people move to the U.S. by investing in the economy. The EB-5 Investor Program allows people to apply for a green card if they invest at least $800,000 in a U.S. business and create at least 10 jobs. This path is for people with significant funds who want to start or support a business in the U.S.
Deportation and Removal Defense
Some people face being removed from the U.S. These cases are severe, but there are ways to stay. It includes:
- Asking for asylum
- Requesting cancellation of removal
- Applying for adjustment of status
- Choosing voluntary departure
These cases go before a judge. Having legal help is essential to understand rights and options.
Naturalization and Citizenship
Becoming a U.S. citizen is the final step for many immigrants. To qualify, a person usually must:
- Have a green card for several years
- Live in the U.S. for most of that time.
- Show good moral character.
- Pass a test on English and U.S. civics.
Once naturalized, a person can vote, get a U.S. passport, and receive other benefits.
Appeals and Motions
Not every case gets approved the first time. A person can ask for a second chance if a case is denied.
Options include:
- Appeals: Asking a higher court to review the decision.
- Motions to reopen or reconsider: Providing new facts or correcting legal errors.
These options must be filed quickly and follow strict rules.
The Final Say!
Immigration law covers many paths—from joining a family and working to seeking safety and becoming a citizen. Each case type has its steps, rules, and chances. Understanding what kind of case fits your journey and getting legal help helps make the process easier and less confusing. If you are facing any kind of immigration issues, contact a lawyer immediately.
