Immigration Blog

The Power of the Immigrant Voice in Shaping America’s Future As a naturalized citizen, your voice holds immense power in shaping America's future. Exercising your voting rights as a naturalized citizen is not just about participation; it signifies your belonging, highlights your unique perspective, and affirms your role in determining the nation's direction. The 2024 presidential election is your opportunity to make a significant impact. Immigrants’ Contributions to America The United States has been shaped and strengthened by immigrants throughout its history. Your journey to citizenship is a testament to resilience, determination, and commitment to freedom, opportunity, and equality. As… Read More

Why Voting is a Milestone for Naturalized Citizens For many of you, as naturalized citizens, voting is not just a civic duty; it’s a milestone that represents the culmination of an incredible journey. The path to citizenship is often long, challenging, and filled with hurdles. This journey involves adapting to a new culture and contributing to the community. It also includes undergoing the rigorous naturalization process to become an American citizen. Voting is the final stamp of belonging, saying, "You are now fully part of this nation's democratic process." Consider exploring the benefits of naturalization further in our related posts… Read More

Discovering Your Hidden U.S. Citizenship: A Path from Uncertainty to Opportunity Imagine living in the U.S. for years as an undocumented immigrant or on a temporary visa, fearing the uncertainties of immigration status, only to discover that you are a U.S. citizen. This could be a reality for many individuals born abroad to U.S. citizen parents. U.S. citizenship may have been acquired automatically at birth, yet they remain unaware of their legal status.   This blog will explain the importance of investigating your potential U.S. citizenship. It will outline the legal framework that makes it possible. Discover how this could transform… Read More

For parents of children born abroad to U.S. citizens, a Consular Report of Birth Abroad (CRBA) is the most straightforward way to establish U.S. citizenship. However, life can sometimes get in the way, and if your child has reached the age of 18 without a CRBA, you might wonder what your options are. The good news is that there are still ways to secure proof of U.S. citizenship for your now-adult child. This blog will walk you through three key options depending on whether your child is inside or outside the U.S.  Applying for a U.S. Passport at a U.S.… Read More

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. The U.S. citizen parent confers citizenship by fulfilling certain legal… 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