Immigration Law in Waldorf, MD

Has the immigration system left you confused or frustrated?

You certainly are not alone. Immigration laws and regulations are intricate and change often. It can take an expert in the field to obtain a visa, become a permanent resident, or get family members to Waldorf.

This guide includes an essential overview of the process and how an immigration attorney can help. Start cutting through the red tape with us today by reading the following sections.

What Is Immigration Law?

Immigration law involves federal rules and regulations that govern who can live and work in the United States. It encompasses naturalization for permanent residents and other crucial legal actions to obtain citizenship. However, individuals who break the law can lose their status. They are also subject to prosecution, detention, and potential deportation.

Despite some false reports, Charles County is not an immigration sanctuary. However, Waldorf residents may find helpful resources through the Office of Immigrant Affairs.

Which Government Agencies Enforce Immigration Law?

Multiple federal government agencies regulate immigration laws in the United States. The following are the three primary federal agencies:

• Customs and Border Protection (CBP) safeguards and reinforces the border.
• US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) manages applying for United States citizenship, residency, or employment.
• Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) investigates individuals who breach immigration laws and enforce immigration regulations.

How Does Immigration Into the U.S. and Waldorf, MD Work?

Multiple applications are necessary to immigrate to the United States. The regulations that govern approval can change frequently. These changes can make it advantageous to hire an immigration lawyer in Waldorf, Maryland.

Maryland has implemented several changes to its immigration laws in recent years. In 2021, the state prohibited local governments from helping ICE detain people based on immigration status. Additionally, the government expanded access to driver’s licenses to undocumented immigrants.

Types Of Immigration

Family-Based Immigration

This form of immigration is the most common. It involves an entitled family member filing a petition for someone seeking naturalization. Immediate relatives of United States citizens can have a petition filed on their behalf. However, permanent residents and other migrants may be subject to additional constraints.

Applicants who do not have an immediate relative filing on their behalf are subject to additional scrutiny. This process places an immigration application into a group with applied preferences. Priority goes to those who are under 21 and unmarried. Conversely, older relatives may have to wait years to obtain a visa.

Employment-Based Immigration

There are non-permanent visas for individuals interested in pursuing work or business opportunities. Employment-based immigration constitutes a vast category with various classifications, which may include (but are not limited to):

• H-1B Visa: for highly skilled foreign workers with a bachelor’s degree or higher in a specialty field
• L-1 Visa: for intra-company transferees who work in managerial, executive, or specialized knowledge positions
• O Visa: for individuals with extraordinary abilities in science, arts, education, business, or athletics
• P Visa: for athletes, entertainers, and artists who are internationally recognized
• E Visa: for investors, traders, and treaty traders who engage in substantial trade
• TN Visa: for Canadian and Mexican citizens who work in specific professional occupations under the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA)
• R-1 Visa: for foreign religious workers employed by a non-profit religious organization in the United States
• EB-5 Visa: for investors who invest $1.8 million or more in a company that creates at least ten full-time jobs

In these instances, the immigrant has sponsorship through their employer. Following the expiration of the non-permanent visa, the company may extend the status permanently. Additionally, some business owners and investors in Waldorf can sponsor themselves.

Refugees And Asylum Seekers

Immigrants fleeing persecution or unsafe conditions may lawfully enter and remain in America. In collaboration with Congress, the President of the United States determines the individuals with eligibility.

Anyone afraid of persecution upon returning to their home country may request asylum. In immigration law, there is no set restriction on how many can enter this way or for how long.

The Maryland Office for Refugees and Asylees can help those in need in the Waldorf area. They have a support network that can help with employment, healthcare, and financial assistance. A few of the groups they have recently identified as qualified include the following:

• Ukrainian Humanitarian Parolees (UHPs)

• Human trafficking victims

• Cubans and Haitians

• Iraqi and Afghan Special Immigrants

The Difference Between a Visa and a Green Card

A visa grants permission to enter the United States and remain for a specified duration. But a green card permits you to enter and reside in the country indefinitely. As a result, anyone with one has permanent residency status.

Non-Immigrant Visas

Non-immigrant visas exist for individuals who intend to depart the country after a certain period. They do not typically result in permanent residency status unless the individual has another qualifying reason. Examples of non-immigrant visas include tourist visas, student visas, and work visas.

Immigrant Visas

Immigrant visas provide the chance to obtain permanent residency. Possession of one may make you eligible to receive a green card. Nonetheless, these visas are more challenging to acquire and necessitate a petition from a qualifying U.S. citizen.

The Role of Waldorf, MD Immigration Lawyers

Immigration attorneys in Waldorf, Maryland provide counsel and assistance to applicants. The services are often necessary for many matters, including deportation issues, citizenship, and visa applications.

Immigration lawyers are not commonly involved in court proceedings. They function as intermediaries between their clients and the U.S. immigration services. Accordingly, legal counselors in Waldorf, MD primarily work with USCIS.

There are several immigration advocacy groups and organizations located near Waldorf. In particular, the Maryland Immigrant Rights Coalition advocates for maximum resources for immigrants.

When Should I Consider Hiring A Waldorf, MD Immigration Attorney?

Engaging the services of an immigration lawyer in Waldorf, Maryland may not always be essential. Nevertheless, certain circumstances may arise where retaining an immigration attorney becomes almost indispensable.

• You face deportation or removal proceedings
• Law enforcement has charged you with a criminal offense
• You are applying for asylum or refugee status
• You are applying for a green card or immigrant visa and have encountered complications
• You received a denial for a visa or immigration benefit
• You have become separated from your family due to immigration issues
• You seek naturalization or citizenship and have encountered obstacles
• You are an employer who needs to sponsor an employee for a work visa or green card

We can assist you if you experience any of these issues or have other concerns. We have a network of highly-qualified attorneys in Waldorf, MD who can help guide you.

In fact, we can even help you connect with an attorney across Maryland state lines. Request legal help online or call us today at (866) 345-6784!