2020 has not been an easy year for immigrants. The Trump administration has spent the last several years restricting lawful immigration in many different ways, and the COVID-19 pandemic only worsened these restrictions. For much of this year, visa processing has been largely unavailable, discouraging many immigrants from submitting petitions or continuing with their application process.
If you are pursuing a marriage-based green card, you may be feeling this discouragement yourself. However, stopping your immigration process now (or choosing not to start) may be a grave mistake.
Let’s take a look at 3 major reasons why now is the time to continue your journey toward lawful permanent residence—and with an attorney by your side.
1. Immigration Agencies Are Currently Processing Visas
Due to COVID-19, many have assumed that immigration is simply impossible at this time. However, U.S. Consulates and Embassies are beginning to reopen, and USCIS reopened offices several months ago. Additionally, emergency appointments have been an option for those in need of humanitarian-based expedited processing.
Some are also concerned about the immigration ban, as well. However, you are exempt from the ban if your spouse is a U.S. citizen.
2. The Challenges May Continue to Grow
The obstacles between you and your immigration goals may seem steep, but now is still the best time to pursue permanent residence. If President Trump is reelected, he will likely continue to restrict lawful immigration—especially family-based immigration. He has made it clear that he believes immigration should be exclusively merit-based, rather than humanitarian- or family-based.
If your goal is to obtain a green card, now is the time to apply. We cannot know for sure what future policies may further obstruct the path ahead of you. The sooner you continue your process, the better your chances may be of avoiding the burden of new political obstacles.
3. An Attorney Can Save You Time, Money, and Effort
Immigration adjudicators have a zero-tolerance policy for mistakes. Some mistakes will trigger a Request for Evidence, while others may cause irrevocable damage, preventing you from qualifying for an immigration benefit at any point in the future. This is especially true for marriage-based visas, as USCIS heavily scrutinizes applications to detect even the smallest signs of marriage fraud. If an adjudicator believes you have committed fraud, you could permanently lose your opportunity to move to the United States.
When you hire a lawyer outright, however, you will have what you need to complete the petition or application process the right way on the first try. This will save you the time, costs, and general hassle of responding to a Request for Evidence, appealing an application denial, or finding an entirely new way of accomplishing your goals.
Let Our Team Maximize Your Likelihood of Success
The immigration process is daunting. No one can deny this. However, with Sintsirmas & Mueller Co. L.P.A. by your side, your path will be brighter, faster, and simpler. We can help you anticipate and avoid obstacles, understand both your rights and options, and complete every step of your journey with confidence and efficiency. We want you to succeed because we know how important the end result may be for you and your loved ones.
Ready to get started on your case? Give us a call at (888) 491-8770 or contact us online today. We can begin with a complimentary consultation.
