Yes. The immigration regulations do not require a U.S. citizen or permanent resident to use the services of an attorney.
Relative Visa
Can a foreign relative apply for a tourist visa while an immigrant visa is pending?
Yes. In order for a tourist visa to be issued, however, the United States embassy or consulate officer must be convinced that the foreign relative intends to return to their country after the visit to the United States. The pending immigrant visa application indicates that the foreign relative intends to live permanently in the United… Read More
Can my foreign relative obtain a social security number after entry into the United States?
Yes. Upon entry into the United States, your foreign relative is a permanent resident. Your foreign relative will receive a social security number.
Can a foreign relative work legally after entry into the United States?
Yes. Upon entry into the United States, the foreign relative is a permanent resident. The foreign relative will receive a social security number and can begin to work legally.
How does a foreign relative obtain the permanent residence (‘green card’) card after they enter the United States?
Approximately 2 weeks after entry as an immigrant, your foreign relative will receive a lawful permanent resident card by mail. The permanent resident card will be valid for 10 years.
How long can a foreign relative remain in the United States after they enter?
Permanently.
What is the procedure when a foreign relative arrives in the United States?
Upon entry into the United States, your foreign relative will give a sealed envelope (provided by the U.S. embassy or consulate) to the Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer. The CBP officer will stamp the foreign relative’s passport. This signifies entry as an immigrant.
For how long is an immigrant visa valid after issuance by the United States embassy or consulate?
An immigrant visa is valid for 6 months after issuance. This means that the foreign relative must enter the United States prior to the expiration of the 6 month period.
What is the immigrant visa fee at the United States embassy or consulate?
At present, the immigrant visa application fee is $230 per applicant. Each applicant must pay a separate application fee. Click here for a list of applicable fees. Please note that the immigrant visa application fee is paid to the National Visa Center (NVC).
How long does it take the United States embassy or consulate to issue an immigrant visa?
Once the United States embassy or consulate officer is satisfied, the immigrant visa application is approved and a machine readable visa is placed in the foreign relative’s passport 1 week after the interview.
