Immigration Law blog
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 2024, the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) extended Green Card extensions from 24 to 36 months. This change affects individuals renewing their Green Cards through Form I-90, the Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card. Applicants now receive 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 responds to increasing delays in processing Form I-90 renewal applications.…Read More
USCIS Extends Green Card Validity to 36 Months for I-90 Renewals: Key Benefits and Updates USCIS recently announced a major change benefiting individuals renewing their Permanent Resident Cards (Green Cards. As of September 2024, 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 mainly applies to individuals, particularly those actively seeking to renew an expiring or expired Green Card. Importantly, the extension is automatic for those who accurately file Form I-90. Consequently, this adjustment provides relief to applicants, especially those…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. Officials can also use it to communicate approval of certain petitions. Form I-797A (Replacement Form I-94): Receiving this generally…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
DHS Initiative Advances President Biden’s Commitment to Family Unity in Immigration On June 18, 2024, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) took a pivotal step towards fulfilling President Biden’s commitment to promoting family unity within the US immigration system. This new initiative aims to ensure that families remain together by offering a discretionary grant of parole in place to eligible individuals. Key Points of the New Parole Process To qualify for consideration under this new DHS initiative, an individual must: Be present in the United States without admission or parole: This initiative is aimed at those who have entered the…Read More
Brief Overview of the Oath of Allegiance The Oath of Allegiance is a vital milestone for every immigrant embarking on the final step of the U.S. naturalization process. Administered during the citizenship ceremony, it is more than a mere formality—it is a public affirmation of allegiance and a crucial act highlighting the transition from immigrant to citizen. This Oath signifies a legal commitment to uphold the Constitution and marks an emotional and ideological integration into American society. Importance of the Oath in the Naturalization Process The Oath of Allegiance represents a profound transition from immigrant to citizen, creating enduring emotional…Read More