Immigration Law blog
A Consular Report of Birth Abroad (CRBA) is an official document issued by the U.S. Department of State to children born abroad to U.S. citizen parents. It serves as proof of the child’s U.S. citizenship, allowing them to benefit from the rights and privileges that come with being a U.S. citizen. The CRBA is a crucial step in ensuring that your child’s citizenship status is recognized by the U.S. government. Who is Eligible for a CRBA? To be eligible for a CRBA, at least one parent must be a U.S. citizen at the time of the child's birth. The parent…Read More
U.S. citizenship is obtained by birth in the U.S., naturalization, or by acquired U.S. citizenship for children born abroad through ART to U.S. citizen parents. This article explains who qualifies and how assisted reproductive technology (ART) impacts the process. What is Acquired U.S. Citizenship for Children Born Abroad Through ART? Acquired citizenship refers to U.S. citizenship automatically granted to a child born abroad when one or both parents are U.S. citizens at the time of the child’s birth. This form of citizenship does not require any formal application for naturalization. Instead, it is conferred as long as certain legal conditions…Read More
Understanding A-Numbers: Alien Registration Number Navigating the U.S. immigration system can be complex, especially when understanding the various identifiers and numbers used by government agencies. One such critical identifier is the A-Number, also known as the Alien Registration Number (A#) or USCIS #. Whether a noncitizen seeking immigration benefits or a naturalized U.S. citizen, understanding your A-Number is essential for managing your immigration records and interactions with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). What is an A-Number? An A-Number, short for Alien Registration Number or Alien Number, is a unique seven--, eight-, or nine-digit identifier assigned to individuals by USCIS.…Read More
In September 2023, the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) made a notable change, extending the validity of Green Card extensions from 24 months to 36 months for individuals renewing their Green Cards. This change impacts applicants filing Form I-90, the Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card, providing them with temporary proof of legal permanent residency for up to three years. However, while this extension offers some relief, it underscores a deeper issue—prolonged delays in adjudicating Green Card renewals. Prolonged Processing Times: The Root of the Problem The decision to extend the Green Card validity for 36 months directly…Read More
USCIS Extends Green Card Validity to 36 Months for I-90 Renewals: Key Benefits and Updates The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) recently announced a significant change that will benefit individuals renewing their Permanent Resident Cards (Green Cards). As of September 2023, USCIS has extended the validity of Green Card extensions from 24 months to 36 months for those filing Form I-90, the Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card. This adjustment applies to individuals seeking to renew an expiring or expired green card. The extension is automatic for those who correctly file Form I-90, providing much-needed relief to applicants…Read More
Understanding the Different Types of USCIS Form I-797 Form I-797, issued by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), is a versatile communication tool for various purposes during immigration processes. Though not a form you fill out, it acts as a receipt, notice, or approval document. Here’s a closer look at the different types of I-797: Form I-797 (Notice of Action): This is the most common form. It indicates that USCIS has received your application or petition and provides a tracking number. It can also be used to communicate approval of certain petitions. Form I-797A (Replacement Form I-94): When you receive…Read More
The Importance of Family Unity in Immigration Family unity has been a foundational principle of U.S. immigration policy for decades. Enshrined in the Immigration and Nationality Act of 1965, this principle aims to promote the reunification of U.S. citizens with their noncitizen relatives, recognizing that strong family bonds are vital to the nation's social fabric and overall well-being. However, despite the clear intent of this legislation, the U.S. immigration system has struggled to fully realize this objective, facing significant challenges that often lead to lengthy separations and emotional distress for many families. The Immigration and Nationality Act of 1965 laid…Read More
President Biden Announces New Actions for Immigration Reform to Keep Families Together President Biden has been focused on addressing the United States' broken immigration system and proposing reforms to improve border security. Despite the challenges and partisan politics that have hindered progress, the Biden Administration has continued implementing strategic actions to ensure border security while promoting family unity and lawful immigration pathways. On June 18, 2024, President Biden announced a series of new measures to keep families together and enhance the country's immigration system. These actions are part of President Biden's Immigration Reform Initiatives. A Commitment to Border Security and…Read More
Overview of DHS Announcement On June 18, 2024, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) made a significant announcement to support family unity within the immigration system. This initiative aligns with President Biden's commitment to keeping families together. DHS has introduced a new Parole-In-Place process allowing case-by-case consideration of requests from certain noncitizen spouses of U.S. citizens. This Parole-In-Place process aims to provide a pathway to lawful permanent residence for those who have been continuously present in the United States for at least ten years without admission or parole. President Biden has consistently emphasized the importance of family unity as a…Read More
Proof of Continuous Residence in the U.S. for Ten Years In light of the new White House Family Parole Policy for spouses of U.S. citizens, the Law Offices of Osas Iyamu, LLC is dedicated to helping you stay informed and prepared. While we await further guidance from USCIS, here are some proactive steps you can take to ensure you meet the requirements. To establish your continuous residence in the U.S. for the past ten years (from June 17, 2014, to June 17, 2024), gather the following documents: Bank statements showing regular transactions. Medical records showing your name and address. Utility…Read More