Legal BLOG

The task of petitioning for your non-citizen child to obtain a green card or United States residency can be intimidating. While there are several requirements, one question that may come to mind is whether or not a paternity test is necessary. The short answer is that it depends! Depending on the specific circumstances of your case, you may or may not need a paternity test. Generally, a paternity test is not required for a father to petition for their non-citizen child. However, if there is any doubt about the biological relationship between you and your child, a paternity test may be required to establish your legal standing as the child's father. Under normal circumstances, as the child's father, you are already listed on the child's birth certificate or have other documentation proving your relationship to the child, which may eliminate the need for a paternity test. If there is no name in the place of 'father' on the child's birth certificate, you may be abl

A conditional green card, valid for two years, is given once married to a US citizen or permanent resident. An application for the removal of conditions (Form I-751) must be submitted before the card expires. If Form I-751 is submitted after the conditional green card expires, additional requirements are needed to obtain a permanent green card.  What is the cost of petitioning to remove the conditions of residence?  The filing fee of $595 and an $85 biometric fee are required and paid to USCIS for the processing of Form I-751 unless you are eligible for a fee waiver. Attorney fees are separate and can range from $1000 to $2000. The determining factors for attorney fees are (1). Joint or waiver application, and (2). Prior denial or complex issues.  What is the processing time for Form I-751? At the time of publishing this article, it can take 17.5 to 35 months to process the I-751 after filing Form I-751. The processing time is subject to change. A significant factor that may influence

Becoming a United States citizen is a life-changing decision that opens up a world of new opportunities. By granting access to benefits such as the right to vote, government assistance, and the ability to sponsor family members for residency, citizenship provides a sense of security and belonging. The Process  To begin the process of becoming a citizen, it is crucial to confirm your eligibility. This involves meeting specific requirements, which include being a lawful permanent resident for at least five years or three years if you are married to a United States citizen. Additionally, you must be at least 18 years old, able to read, write, and speak basic English, and have a fundamental knowledge of United States history and government. Once you have met the necessary criteria, you will need to complete and submit Form N-400, Application for Naturalization. This form requests vital information such as biographical details, employment and travel history, and supporting documents like yo