Immigration Law blog

As the holiday season fills our hearts with joy and gratitude, we at the Law Offices of Osas Iyamu, LLC, want to take a moment to thank our clients, partners, and friends of the firm for your trust and support throughout the year. It has been our honor to serve you, and your stories of perseverance and strength inspire us daily. This season is a time to celebrate connection, hope, and new beginnings. We wish you a Merry Christmas, and we hope this season brings you and your loved ones peace, happiness, and cherished memories. May the new year be…Read More

International marriage can be a beautiful journey of bringing two cultures together, but it also comes with challenges—especially when it involves international marriage brokers. Let's break down what these brokers are, the laws surrounding them, and how they may impact your immigration journey. What Is an International Marriage Broker? International marriage brokers (IMBs) are companies or agencies that match U.S. citizens or permanent residents with foreign nationals for marriage, often as part of the K-1 visa or fiancé(e) visa process. They connect individuals across borders, particularly where cultural practices and traditions differ vastly. You might have seen them portrayed in…Read More

The U.S. enacted the International Marriage Broker Regulation Act (IMBRA) to address IMBRA implementation challenges and protect noncitizen spouses and fiancé(e)s from potential abuse and exploitation during the immigration process. While the law was a significant step in ensuring safety and transparency, its implementation has faced several challenges. This blog explores the progress made in implementing IMBRA. It also examines the gaps and obstacles faced by USCIS, DOS, and DOJ. Agencies' Progress: Implementations and Remaining Challenges Since the enactment of IMBRA, several measures have been taken to protect noncitizen beneficiaries from abuse. USCIS, DOS, and DOJ have made progress in…Read More

The journey to marriage is exciting, but when that journey crosses international borders, it can come with unique challenges and vulnerabilities. For noncitizen spouses and fiancé(e)s entering the United States, understanding your rights and the protections available to you is crucial. The International Marriage Broker Regulation Act (IMBRA) ensures your safety during the immigration process. It also promotes transparency and empowerment. Let's explore how IMBRA protects noncitizen spouses and fiancé(e)s. Understanding IMBRA: Safety Measures for Noncitizen Spouses The U.S. enacted IMBRA, or the International Marriage Broker Regulation Act, to address safety concerns for noncitizen spouses and fiancé(e)s immigrating. IMBRA immigration…Read More

Navigating immigration appeals can be challenging, especially when multiple agencies are involved. Two key players in this area are the Administrative Appeals Office (AAO) and the Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA). Understanding their roles and differences is essential for anyone dealing with immigration-related decisions. What Is the Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA)? The Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA) is the highest administrative body for interpreting and applying immigration laws. It falls under the U.S. Department of Justice and hears appeals from decisions made by immigration judges and certain Department of Homeland Security (DHS) decisions, such as removal orders, asylum applications,…Read More

The Administrative Appeals Office (AAO) plays a significant role in the U.S. immigration system, allowing applicants to appeal certain unfavorable decisions made by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). But what kinds of cases does the AAO handle? Understanding the AAO's jurisdiction is crucial for those considering an appeal and wanting to ensure their case is eligible for review. Types of Cases Handled by the AAO The AAO handles a variety of immigration-related appeals, including: Employment-based immigrant and nonimmigrant visa petitions (Forms I-140 and I-129) EB-5 immigrant investor petitions (Form I-526) and Regional Center applications (Form I-924) Temporary…Read More

It can be daunting to face a denial from the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Understanding the common grounds for appeals is essential for building a successful case. The Administrative Appeals Office (AAO) reviews many types of appeals, each with unique challenges and lessons. This article provides insights into common grounds for appeals based on real AAO decisions, offering guidance for applicants and their representatives. Importance of AAO Decisions AAO decisions play a critical role in shaping immigration policy by setting precedents and providing clarity in interpreting immigration laws. A favorable AAO decision can open doors for others…Read More

Navigating the immigration process can be challenging, especially when an application or petition is denied. If USCIS denied your application, you may be able to appeal the decision. Submit your appeal to the AAO. Let's break down the AAO appeals process and how to prepare your case. What Is the AAO? The Administrative Appeals Office (AAO) is responsible for reviewing appeals of certain unfavorable USCIS decisions. The AAO reviews various immigration cases, such as employment-based visa petitions and waivers of inadmissibility. It ensures consistency with immigration laws and USCIS policy. When you submit an appeal, the AAO conducts a fresh…Read More

Imagine making one small decision that sets off a chain reaction of events with serious consequences. That’s exactly how the relationship between criminal law and immigration law feels for noncitizens in the United States. These two fields don’t just intersect—they collide, and the result can significantly alter someone's life. In this blog, we’re diving into this complex world where criminal justice and immigration enforcement meet, and what that means for those who are caught in between. Criminal Law and Deportability: The Domino Effect You might think that only major crimes threaten someone's ability to stay in the U.S., but that’s…Read More