Immigration FAQ
Browse answers to common immigration questions about asylum, family cases, citizenship, and more.
Popular topics
Asylum & Refugees
How long does the asylum process take?
Timelines vary by office and case complexity, so there is no single deadline that fits every case. Most applicants wait months to years from filing to a decision.
Asylum & Refugees
Can I work while my asylum case is pending?
You may apply for work authorization after 150 days with a pending asylum application. You can only work once the card is approved and in hand.
Asylum & Refugees
What is the one-year filing deadline for asylum?
Most people must file for asylum within one year of their last arrival. Limited exceptions exist for changed or extraordinary circumstances.
Asylum & Refugees
What happens if my asylum application is denied?
A denial can lead to referral to immigration court for a new hearing. You still have a chance to present your case before a judge.
Asylum & Refugees
Can my family be included in my asylum application?
Your spouse and unmarried children under 21 can usually be included as derivatives. They must be listed on your application and meet eligibility rules.
Family-Based Immigration
How long does it take to get a green card through family?
Processing times depend on the relationship and visa availability. Immediate relatives of U.S. citizens usually move faster than preference categories.
Asylum & Refugees
5How long does the asylum process take?
Timelines vary by office and case complexity, so there is no single deadline that fits every case. Most applicants wait months to years from filing to a decision.
Can I work while my asylum case is pending?
You may apply for work authorization after 150 days with a pending asylum application. You can only work once the card is approved and in hand.
What is the one-year filing deadline for asylum?
Most people must file for asylum within one year of their last arrival. Limited exceptions exist for changed or extraordinary circumstances.
What happens if my asylum application is denied?
A denial can lead to referral to immigration court for a new hearing. You still have a chance to present your case before a judge.
Can my family be included in my asylum application?
Your spouse and unmarried children under 21 can usually be included as derivatives. They must be listed on your application and meet eligibility rules.
Family-Based Immigration
5How long does it take to get a green card through family?
Processing times depend on the relationship and visa availability. Immediate relatives of U.S. citizens usually move faster than preference categories.
Can my spouse work while waiting for a green card?
If your spouse files adjustment of status in the U.S., they can request a work permit. Approval timelines vary by service center.
What if I entered the U.S. without inspection and marry a U.S. citizen?
A spouse of a U.S. citizen who entered without inspection may still have options, but the path is complex. Waivers or consular processing may be required.
Can I petition for my parents if I am a U.S. citizen?
U.S. citizens age 21 or older can petition for parents as immediate relatives. There is no visa backlog for this category.
Consular processing or adjustment of status, which is right for me?
Adjustment of status happens inside the U.S., while consular processing happens through a U.S. consulate abroad. The best option depends on your status and travel history.
Citizenship & Naturalization
5When can I apply for U.S. citizenship?
Most green card holders can apply after five years, or after three years if married to a U.S. citizen and meeting all rules. Time outside the U.S. can affect eligibility.
What happens at the citizenship interview?
An officer reviews your application, tests English skills, and asks civics questions. You also confirm your eligibility and background.
Can I travel while my citizenship application is pending?
Short trips are usually fine, but long trips can disrupt continuous residence. You should avoid missing your biometrics or interview.
Do I need to speak English to become a U.S. citizen?
Most applicants must show basic English ability, but age and time as a resident can create exceptions. Medical waivers may also apply.
How do long trips affect continuous residence for citizenship?
Trips of six months to one year can interrupt continuous residence, and trips over one year almost always do. You may need to restart the clock.
Deportation Defense
5What should I do if ICE arrests me or a family member?
Stay calm, remain silent, and ask for a lawyer. Do not sign documents you do not understand.
Can I be deported if I have a green card?
Green card holders can be placed in removal proceedings for certain violations. You may still have defenses or relief options.
What is cancellation of removal and who qualifies?
Cancellation of removal is a discretionary form of relief for certain noncitizens in court. It has strict eligibility requirements.
Can I return to the U.S. after being deported?
Returning after removal is difficult and often requires waiting out a bar and seeking permission to reapply. Unauthorized return can lead to criminal charges.
What is an immigration bond hearing?
A bond hearing lets a judge decide if you can be released while your case continues. The judge considers flight risk and public safety.
Work Authorization
5How do I get a work permit in the United States?
Work permits are available for specific categories such as asylum applicants, certain spouses, and adjustment applicants. You must file Form I-765 with evidence.
What happens if my work permit expires?
Once an EAD expires you cannot work legally until it is renewed or extended. Some categories qualify for automatic extensions when filed on time.
Can my employer sponsor me for a green card?
Employers can sponsor workers through employment based categories, but the process can take years. You must maintain lawful status when required.
Can I get a work permit while a family petition is pending?
A pending family petition alone does not usually grant work authorization. Work permits are tied to specific applications like adjustment of status.
How long does it take to renew an EAD?
Renewal times vary by category and workload, often several months. Planning early helps avoid gaps.
General Questions
5How much does an immigration lawyer cost?
Fees vary by case type and complexity, and many firms offer payment plans. A clear fee agreement should outline what is included.
Do I need a lawyer for my immigration case?
A lawyer is not required, but legal guidance helps avoid mistakes and delays. Complex cases benefit most from representation.
What documents do I need for my immigration case?
Most cases need identity documents, civil records, and proof of status. The exact list depends on your case type.
Can I check the status of my immigration case?
You can track your case with the receipt number on your notices. Processing times change, so regular checks help.
How do I update my address with immigration?
Most noncitizens must report address changes within a short period. Keeping your address current prevents missed notices.