Our immigration attorneys thoroughly analyze the circumstances of each individual case. We review the strengths and weaknesses, and any court records, in order to improve the chances of successfully meeting our clients’ goals. We utilize these skills to provide assistance in many immigration-related issues. Other sections of our website discuss family-based immigration and employment-based immigration. This page covers the other immigration-related services, including the following:
Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA)
On June 15, 2012, the Obama administration announced that it will offer deferred action policy to certain immigrant children who were brought to the United States. Deferred action provides temporary relief from enforcement but may be revoked at any time. Deferred action is not amnesty, immunity, nor does it provide a way to obtain a green card. It only applies to those who meet the criteria and not to any family members of the qualifying individual.
Essentially, deferred action policy is a discretionary determination to defer removal action of an individual. An individual whose case has been deferred is eligible to receive work permits and work authorization for the period of deferred action, provided he or she can demonstrate “an economic necessity for employment.”
It only applies to those who meet the criteria and not to any family members of the qualifying individual.
Who Is Eligible For Deferred Action Policy?
In order to qualify, individuals must:
- have entered the United States before their 16th birthday;
- have been under age 31 and had no valid immigration status on June 15, 2012;
- have continuously resided in the United States between June 15, 2007 and the present;
- be enrolled in school on the date of the request, have graduated from high school, obtained a GED, or have been honorably discharged from the Armed Forces;
- have not been convicted of a felony, a “significant” misdemeanor, or three or more other misdemeanors, and do not otherwise pose a threat to national security or public safety.
Deferred action will only apply for those who are 15 or older, unless they are currently in deportation proceedings or have a final order of removal or voluntary departure.
What is the Current Status of DACA?
Unfortunately, the current administration is not accepting any new DACA applications and are only accepting renewals.
Waivers of Inadmissibility (I-601/I-212)
Waivers of Inadmissibility (I-601/I-212)
Foreign nationals may be inadmissible due to certain circumstances, such as (1) criminal violations, (2) prior deportation orders, (3) unlawful presence, and (4) immigration fraud or misrepresentation. When available, the foreign national may request a waiver for his/her inadmissibility under an I-601 & I-212 waiver.
For example, a foreign national who is ineligible for an immigrant visa or nonimmigrant K or V visa, may be able to apply for a waiver of inadmissibility (I-601). If the foreign national was removed from the United States and needs permission to reapply, they must also file a request for permission (I-212 waiver).
B-1 and B-2: Visitor for Business and Visitor for Pleasure
Visitors for Business (B-1) or Pleasure (B-2), & Visa Waiver Program
B-1 Visa: Business Visitor
Business visitors may enter the US for the purpose of engaging in business activities, which includes:
– Engaging in commercial transactions that do not involve gainful employment;
– Negotiating contracts;
– Settling an estate;
– Consulting with business associates;
– Attending scientific, educational, or business-related meetings, conventions, conferences, or seminars; and
– Other work that is professional in nature, but does not involve domestic employment for hire.
B-2 Visa: Tourist Visitor
A visitor for pleasure, commonly referred to as a tourist, may enter the US with a B-2 Visa for certain legitimate activities, including, but not limited to:
– Tourism;
– Vacation;
– Amusement;
– Visits with friends and relatives;
– Medical treatment; and
– Other activities which are recreational in nature.
F-1 Student Visa
Foreign nationals may enter the US as a full-time student at an accredited college, university, seminary, conservatory, academic high school, private elementary school, language training program, or other academic institution.
In some cases, students may be permitted to work. Our professionals are equipped with the knowledge to advise you on your possible ability to work, and other issues that may affect your visa, such as failing to meet certain academic requirements or engaging in unauthorized employment activities. Contact Sacramento’s Immigration Attorneys to have our team work with you to obtain your student visa, or avoid losing any current and future immigration benefits.
Contact Sacramento Immigration Attorneys for Your Immigration Needs
Interested talking to an attorney about your immigration needs? Feel free to contact our Sacramento’s immigration attorneys to set up a consultation.