Enhanced Scrutiny in Family-Based Immigration Petitions: An Analytical Overview

Enhanced Scrutiny in Family-Based Immigration Petitions: An Analytical Overview

By Brian Figeroux, Esq. | Editorial credit: Ryan Rodrick Beiler / shutterstock.com In recent years, the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has intensified its scrutiny of family-based immigration petitions. This heightened examination focuses on identifying factual inconsistencies, omissions, mistakes, or intentional misrepresentations within applications. Such rigorous evaluations can lead to petition denials, revocation […]

The Economic Cost and Rejection Probability of Immigrants Self-Representing or Using Notarios for USCIS Applications

The Economic Cost and Rejection Probability of Immigrants Self-Representing or Using Notarios for USCIS Applications

By Brian Figeroux, Esq.  The process of applying for legal immigration status or work permits in the United States can be complex and costly. Many immigrants, due to financial constraints or lack of awareness, either self-represent or seek the help of unauthorized immigration consultants, often referred to as “notarios.” Unfortunately, errors in these applications can […]

Green Card Holder Petitioning for a Spouse: File Now or Wait for Citizenship?

Green Card Holder Petitioning for a Spouse: File Now or Wait for Citizenship?

By Brian Figeroux, Esq.  When a U.S. green card holder (lawful permanent resident) marries a spouse who is overseas, they face an important decision: Should they petition immediately for their spouse under their current status, or wait until they become a U.S. citizen to file the petition? The key consideration in this decision is speed—how […]

A Comprehensive Analysis: Renewing a Green Card After Expiration with Criminal Records in New York State

A Comprehensive Analysis: Renewing a Green Card After Expiration with Criminal Records in New York State

By Brian Figeroux, Esq.  Introduction For lawful permanent residents (LPRs) in the United States, renewing a green card after it has expired is typically a routine process. However, individuals with criminal records—including arrests without convictions—may face complications, including denial of renewal or placement in deportation proceedings. This article explores whether someone with a green card […]

Notice to Appear (NTA) and Defenses Against Deportation

Notice to Appear (NTA) and Defenses Against Deportation

By Brian Figeroux, Esq.  The Notice to Appear (NTA) is a pivotal document in removal proceedings, but it is also the first line of defense for immigrants facing deportation. Introduction Overview of the NTA The Notice to Appear (NTA) is a crucial document in U.S. immigration proceedings. It serves as the formal charging document issued […]

Analysis of the National Interest Waiver (NIW) Petition Under Federal Immigration Law

Analysis of the National Interest Waiver (NIW) Petition Under Federal Immigration Law

By Brian Figeroux, Esq. | Editorial Credit: Yuri A / shutterstock.com  The National Interest Waiver (NIW) is an immigration pathway available to certain foreign nationals under the Employment-Based Second Preference (EB-2) category of the U.S. immigration system. The NIW allows an individual to seek a waiver of the job offer requirement, including the labor certification […]