Recently, congresswomen Rep. María Salazar and Rep. Veronica Escobar proposed a bipartisan immigration bill called The Dignity Act. Continue reading to learn more about what The Dignity Act entails and how an experienced family immigration lawyer in Milwaukee, WI, at Sesini Law Group, S.C., can help you understand what this means for you.

What is there to know about the proposed bipartisan immigration bill?

Put simply, The Dignity Act may establish a 12-year, two-part path for individuals seeking legal status in the United States. But first, this proposed bipartisan immigration bill calls for the United States-Mexico border to be declared as secure before any individual on the path may obtain legal status. The main goal of this proposed bill is to allow border patrol agents to be given “dignity,” as they are said to be “overworked” and “underpaid.”

What are the provisions included in the bill?

Mentioned above are the goals that congresswomen Rep. María Salazar and Rep. Veronica Escobar have for the proposed bipartisan immigration bill. But the specific provisions that they have proposed read as follows:

• It may push the General Accounting Office to certify that border patrol has detected and taken in 90 percent of individuals crossing the United States-Mexico border illegally for the past year before they grant them legal status.
• It may push the Dignity Program, in which individuals who have been in the United States without legal status for the past five years may work and be protected from deportation for seven years (so long as they do not have a criminal record).
•  It may push individuals in the Dignity Program to get a 1.5 percent dignity levy on their paycheck, on top of taxes and a $5,000 fee.
• It may push individuals who finish the Dignity Program to obtain a Dignity Status, in which they may have an additional five years to work and stay in the United States or otherwise have their status renewed indefinitely.
• It may push individuals who finish the Dignity Program to enter a Redemption Program, in which they may spend five years learning English or United States civics, performing community service, or paying an additional $5,000 fee so to gain legal permanent residency status.
• It may push for an immediate protected status and a straightforward path toward legal status for Dreamers.
• It may push for protection from deportation for individuals who have experienced natural disasters or otherwise conflict in their native countries.
• It may push the asylum process to be expedited to 60 days.

Undoubtedly, the aftermath of such proposed provisions may affect your immigration status or otherwise. A skilled family immigration lawyer in Milwaukee, WI, at Sesini Law Group, S.C., is here whenever you are ready to initiate your immigration application. Simply contact our firm at your earliest possible convenience.

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Whether it be to gain employment, stay with your family, start a life with your fiancé, or otherwise, hundreds of thousands of individuals seek out United States citizenship each year. Out of the many that apply, only a small percentage are accepted due to strict requirements set out by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Follow along to find out the benefits of becoming a United States citizen and how one of the proficient Wisconsin immigration attorneys at Sesini Law Group, S.C. can help you in this application process.

What are some of the benefits of becoming a United States citizen?

There are widely desired benefits that come with citizenship. In the United States, these benefits are considered some of the greatest honors that one may possess. Just some examples are as follows:

• You will be allowed to travel with a United States passport.
• You will be allowed to maintain your residency in the United States.
• You will be eligible to apply for federal grants and scholarships.
• You will be eligible to apply for government benefits.
• You will be eligible to apply for federal jobs.
• You will be eligible to become an elected official.
• You will be eligible to bring other family members to the United States.
• You will be eligible to bring your children younger than 18 years old to the United States.

In addition, some benefits double as responsibilities. For example, when becoming a United States citizen, you earn the right to vote in government elections. This Fourteenth Amendment right was greatly fought for, and this is a duty that is taken seriously among this country’s citizens.

Another example is that a United States citizen earns the right to serve on a jury. This may not seem like an honor at initial thought. However, serving on a jury is one way in which this country’s citizens uphold the highly-valued democratic process.

Is it possible for me to gain citizenship?

First, you must worry about qualifying for naturalization in the United States. Many strict requirements come with this application, and they are as follows:

• You will have to show that you are committed to the principles and ideals outlined in the United States Constitution.
• You will have to show that you can read, write, speak, and overall communicate in basic English.
• You will have to show that you can recite a basic understanding of the United States government and its history.
• You will have to show that you can recite an oath of allegiance to the United States.

Of note, there are a few more requirements for naturalization that were not mentioned above. So, if you are ready and willing to kick off your citizenship application, then you must employ one of the talented Wisconsin immigration attorneys today. We look forward to working alongside you.

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Employment visas are one of the most highly requested visa types by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). With this, these visas come with very specific eligibility criteria. Read on to discover whether an employee’s education level impacts their H-1B visa qualification and how a seasoned work authorization permit lawyer in Milwaukee, WI, at the Sesini Law Group, S.C., can help determine your eligibility.

What is an H-1B visa?

Simply put, an H-1B visa is a type of employer-sponsor, nonimmigrant work visa. This visa allows individuals who are not citizens or permanent residents of the United States to work in a specialty occupation within the country for a certain period of time. With applying for extensions, this certain period of time may be up to six cumulative years. And such specialty occupations include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Work related to biology, at the professional level.
• Work related to business administration, at the professional level.
• Work related to education, at the professional level.
• Work related to engineering, at the professional level.
• Work related to mathematics, at the professional level.
• Work related to medicine, at the professional level.
• Work related to physics, at the professional level.
• Work related to psychology, at the professional level.
• Work related to social sciences, at the professional level.

Does an employee need a certain education level to qualify for an H-1B visa?

Because of the level of expertise required for the aforementioned fields of work, an employee does need a certain level of education to qualify for an H-1B visa. More specifically, the minimum educational level is a bachelor’s degree or equivalent in the related field of work. For your visa application, you may have to provide proof of your degree or equivalent certification.

But with that being said, having this level of education does not automatically make you eligible for H-1B status. That is, the job itself, for which you are applying, must have a bachelor’s degree or equivalent listed as one of their requirements. This may pose a difficulty depending on what type of work you are seeking, as certain fields do not have well-established degree requirements.

What’s more, having this level of education and finding a job that discloses this education requirement does not automatically grant you an H-1B visa. This is because the USCIS has a cap of 65,000 H-1B visas distributed for the entire country each year. In addition, your potential employer must properly submit a petition to be your sponsor to the USCIS.

Without further ado, you must retain the services of a competent work authorization permit lawyer in Milwaukee, WI immediately. We can assure you that we are passionate about your case, so contact us today.

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Recently, the Biden administration proposed a new regulation that will impose new restrictions on individuals who can seek asylum in the United States. Read on to discover what this new regulation for asylum seekers is and how a seasoned asylum immigration lawyer in Milwaukee, WI can help you understand how this may affect you.

What is the new regulation for asylum seekers?

With this proposed rule, migrants who cross the United States border without authorization to do so may be penalized. The same goes for migrants who fail to apply for protections in another country that they pass through en route to the United States.

Essentially, the Biden administration noted that the purpose of this new rule would be to deport disqualified asylum seekers as quickly and easily as possible. In addition, they are trying to discourage vulnerable migrants from using dangerous means to cross the United States border.

What’s more, they are anticipating the surge in migration that will likely come from the southern United States border at the end of Title 42. Namely, Title 42 was a public health restriction established during the coronavirus pandemic, which denied a couple of million asylum seekers and otherwise migrants at the southern border of the United States. This restriction is expected to be lifted on or around May 11, right around the time that this new regulation may be implemented.

What else should I know about this new regulation?

However, this proposal has received significant criticism from immigration and human rights advocates alike. They are comparing it to the Trump administration’s controversial “asylum transit ban,” which mandated asylum seekers to request asylum in one of the other countries they passed through en route to the United States. This policy exempted those coming from Mexico.

Though, the Biden administration has pointed out the contrasts between the two rules. For one, this new rule will not apply to unaccompanied children. It will also give space for humanitarian exemptions, which include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Individuals seeking asylum who have acute medical conditions.
• Individuals seeking asylum who have been made a victim of human trafficking.
• Individuals seeking asylum who have been fleeing from imminent and extreme danger.

Lastly, the Biden administration holds that this new rule will give asylum seekers the opportunity for rebuttal if they are denied refuge in the United States. For example, they may be allowed to provide proof that they were denied access to another country or that they were unable to schedule an appointment at an official port of entry.

This proposed regulation is undergoing a 30-day public comment period. With all that being said, if you are seeking asylum in the United States, we recommend that you consult with one of the competent Wisconsin immigration attorneys as soon as possible. Schedule your initial consultation with us today.

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The United States Department of State plans to allow certain non-immigrant workers to apply to renew their visas from within the country. More specifically, this pilot program is intended to help IT workers who possess H-1B visas. Read on to discover what this domestic visa renewal for IT workers will entail and how a seasoned work authorization permit lawyer in Milwaukee, WI, at Sesini Law Group, S.C., can help you take advantage of this program.

What is an H-1B visa?

First things first, an H-1B visa is a type of non-immigrant work visa that is designated for individuals seeking temporary, specialty jobs within the United States. Such jobs generally require a bachelor’s degree or an equivalent education level as a start, and they are described as “requiring theoretical and practical application of a body of highly specialized knowledge in a field of human endeavor.” With that being said, IT workers are eligible for H-1B visas.

And so, IT workers on the H-1B visa must have a United States employer who is eligible to sponsor them. In addition, this employer must prove that they are offering a temporary role in IT that requires specialized knowledge and that the applicant meets the education level required for this offered role.

What will the domestic visa renewal for IT workers entail?

Notably, the H-1B visa may last for two three-year periods. And up until recently, IT workers were required to leave the United States in order to apply for the renewal of their H-1B visa. Meaning, these non-immigrant workers would have to leave to their home country every three years in the hope of being accepted into the United States to work once more.

But now, domestic renewal of these H-1B visas will be allowed. Meaning, IT workers can remain in the United States while they are reapplying to work in the country. Of note, this domestic renewal process once existed, but was suspended in 2004 after Congress passed the Enhanced Border Security and Visa Entry Reform Act in 2002. This is when the United States Department of State believed for it to be easier to collect biometric information at the United States embassies and consulates. But now, the department holds that the domestic capacity for the collection of biometric information has increased.

The hope with this new system is that both non-immigrant workers and their sponsoring employers alike will gain more job security. Hopefully, if this pilot program is a success, this opportunity will extend to other visa types.

For more information on this domestic visa renewal process and how you can participate in it, then you must reach out to a competent family immigration lawyer in Milwaukee, WI. We look forward to collaborating with you.

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On March 16, 2023, the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced that there is an additional mail delivery process for receiving the Alien Documentation, Identification, and Telecommunication (ADIT) stamp, also known as the I-551 stamp. Read on to discover what this new process is and how a seasoned green card lawyer in Milwaukee, WI, at the Sesini Law Group, S.C., help you in taking advantage of this.

What is the new delivery process offered for the ADIT stamp?

Notably, the USCIS is now allowing lawful permanent residents to receive an ADIT stamp, which is a temporary piece of evidence of their status, by mail. This is a jump from the previous requirement of having to visit a USCIS field office to receive an ADIT stamp.

With this, a lawful permanent resident must meet certain criteria. They read as follows:

• A lawful permanent resident still has not yet received their green card.
• A lawful permanent resident still has a pending adjudication on their Form 1-90 (i.e., Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card), Form I-751 (i.e., Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence), or Form N-400 (i.e., Application for Naturalization) while their green card and extension notice have expired.

What do I have to do to get an ADIT stamp mailed to me?

In a similar sense, a lawful permanent resident must follow certain steps to get an ADIT stamp mailed to them. They read as follows:

1. A lawful permanent resident must call the USCIS Contact Center to request this temporary piece of evidence of their status.
2. A lawful permanent resident must provide a USCIS officer with their identity, physical mailing address, and whether this address is accessible for UPS or FedEx express mail.

It is important to note that a USCIS officer may rule it necessary for you to visit a field office if you have urgent needs, if you do not have a usable photo in the USCIS systems, if your identity cannot be confirmed, or if your address cannot be confirmed, among other things. Ultimately, they will use their discretion to determine your eligibility.

However, if the USCIS officer determines that an in-person appointment is not necessary, and if the USCIS office approves of your request, then you will be mailed a Form 1-94 with an ADIT stamp, a Department of Homeland Security seal, and a printed photo of yourself obtained from their systems.

If this news is applicable to you, this can be a major benefit in your journey toward United States citizenship. This is why you should avoid making any mistakes that may jeopardize this opportunity for you. For more information, reach out to a competent family immigration lawyer in Milwaukee, WI today. We look forward to hearing from you.

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The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will grant approximately 140,000 employment-based visas per year. Non-citizens often apply for this visa to either support their family or pursue a path toward citizenship. But regardless of the reasoning, obtaining this visa is a dream for many. Read on to discover the rights and responsibilities of a work visa holder and how a seasoned work authorization permit lawyer in Milwaukee, WI at Sesini Law Group, S.C. can help you understand this.

What are the rights of a work visa holder?

First of all, if you wish to be a work visa holder, you may file Form I-765, otherwise known as the Application for Employment Authorization. Or, if you are an alien, you may be able to request to be sponsored by a specific United State employer. This is so that you may work for the sponsoring employer later on. In addition, if the USCIS has not adjudicated your application within 90 days of receipt of a properly filed application or 30 days of receipt of a properly filed asylum-related application, you may be able to request an interim authorization. This is so that you may work for an interim of 240 days later on.

With all that being said, when the USCIS finally issues you your work permit, you will hold the legal right to work for any employer in the United States. However, you must note that this authorization will only be issued to you for a specific period.

What are my responsibilities after obtaining a work visa?

Once you obtain your work visa, you must understand that there are certain responsibilities you must follow so that you can maintain this status. Just some of the responsibilities that you may hold are as follows:

• As a visa holder, now you must abide by all established federal and state laws.
• As a visa holder, now you must act like a civil United States citizen.
• As a visa holder, now you must never participate in any illegal practices.
• As a visa holder, now you must provide valid information regarding your employment and personal information.
• As a visa holder, now you must obtain legitimate employment.
• As a visa holder, now you must file your taxes and do so on time.

To fully understand your duties as a work visa holder, it is wise to consult with a competent family immigration lawyer in Milwaukee, WI. We understand just how difficult it was to obtain this work permit, and we do not want it to slip away from you. So, whenever you are ready, pick up the phone and give our firm a call.

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You may have dreamed about becoming a resident of the United States for a long time. Luckily, you may be afforded this opportunity via a green card application. Continue reading to learn what exactly a United States green card is and how an experienced green card lawyer in Milwaukee, WI, at the Sesini Law Group, S.C., can help determine your eligibility and work through your filing process.

By definition, what is a United States green card?

Otherwise known as a United States Permanent Resident Card, a green card is an identification card that established your permanent resident status as an alien of this country. As a green card holder, you will be formally regarded as a lawful permanent resident of the United States.

Am I eligible for permanent resident status?

Rest assured, several circumstances may allow you to be eligible for permanent residency in the United States. Such circumstances read as follows:

• Family-based circumstances: that is, you are the immediate relative of a United States citizen, and therefore you do not have to wait for a visa. As an “immediate relative,” you are either the parent of a citizen, a spouse of a citizen, or a child under the age of 21 of a citizen.
• Employment-based circumstances: that is, you have an employment opportunity or a job offer in the United States, and therefore you are seeking resident status while still outside of the United States.
• Refugee-based circumstances: that is, you have been admitted to the United States as a refugee or as a qualifying spouse or child of a refugee, and therefore you are seeking resident status one year after your entry date.
• Asylee-based circumstances: that is, you have been admitted to the United States as an asylee or as a qualifying spouse or child of an asylee, and therefore you are seeking resident status one year after your entry date.

Importantly, if you do not fall under any of the above categories, then you still may be able to apply for a green card via a special program or otherwise a self-petition.

What should I do if my United States green card application gets denied?

In the unfortunate event that your green card application is denied, you must gain representation from a skilled green card lawyer in Milwaukee, WI. Our team will work to either file a motion to reopen your application or a motion to reconsider your application with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services office. Ultimately, we will help you gather and present the necessary evidence to prove that the denial of your application was due to an inaccurate application of the law.

So, whenever you are ready, pick up the phone and give our firm a call.

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Say, for instance, that you currently reside in the United States based on your employment visa status. Well, this visa comes with an expiration that will prompt you to either renew it or return to your country of origin. Follow along to find out how to renew your United States work visa and how a proficient work authorization permit lawyer in Milwaukee, WI, at the Sesini Law Group, S.C., can help determine your eligibility.

Am I eligible to renew my work visa?

Before all else, you must determine whether you are eligible to renew your work visa at all. According to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), you may qualify if you fall under the following categories:

• You were lawfully permitted to enter the United States with a nonimmigrant visa status.
• Your nonimmigrant visa status is still valid.
• You do not have a criminal record or have committed any crimes that would make you ineligible for a United States visa.
• You have not violated any of the conditions of your admission into the United States.
• Your passport is valid and is set to remain valid duration the duration of your time in the United States.

How do I renew my work visa?

Once you have established that you are eligible to renew your work visa, you must take the proper steps toward doing so. The USCIS has an established process in place for filing such a request, and it reads as follows:

1. You must fill out Form I-539, otherwise known as the Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status, in accordance with its stated instructions.
2. You must submit the filing fee of $370, along with the biometric service fee of $85, if applicable.
3. You must submit all required evidence and documentation, in accordance with the application’s stated instructions. Notably, different types of work visas may require different types of evidence.
4. You must sign Form I-539 and file it with the correct location, in accordance with the application’s stated instructions.

Of note, if your spouse and/or unmarried children under 21 require a similar renewal of status, then you may include their names on your application.

Overall, it is important that you understand just how time sensitive this matter is. You must start this application process on or before your visa’s stated expiration date. Otherwise, you may suffer from consequences far worse than just being denied your request. For one, you may be deported from the United States. Or, you may even be permanently barred from returning to the United States.

If you require assistance with filling out this application correctly and timely, then you must consult with a talented work authorization permit lawyer as soon as possible.

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Put simply, United States employers that are interested in employing foreign workers must understand the different types of employment-based immigration visas. One example is the H-1B1 visa. Continue reading to learn what an H-1B1 visa is and how an experienced work authorization permit lawyer in Milwaukee, WI, at Sesini Law Group, S.C., can help you in obtaining one.

Who is eligible for an H-1B1 visa?

First of all, an H-1B1 visa is a nonimmigrant visa for citizens of either Chile or Singapore. According to the US-Chile Trade Agreement and the US-Singapore Trade Agreement, United States employers may hire citizens of these countries for “specialty occupations” and for a “specific period of time.” The number of visas that can be distributed in a given year are separated from the overall H-1B limit, and they are as follows:

• Citizens of Chile: 1,400 visas in a given year.
• Citizens of Singapore: 5,400 visas in a given year.

And as for “specialty occupations,” these are occupations that require theoretical and practical application of specialized knowledge. Eligible recipients must have a bachelor’s degree or an equivalent in the specific field. The fields that fall under this category are as follows:

• Physical and social sciences.
• Medicine.
• Technology.
• Engineering.
• Mathematics.
• Law.
• Education.
• Business (i.e., accounting, finance, marketing, etc).
• Theology.
• Arts.
• Media.

And as for a “specific period of time,” eligible recipients will be admitted to the United States for a one-year period. This may be renewed indefinitely, so long as they can prove that they do not intend to remain or work permanently in the country.

How do I get an H-1B1 visa?

Fortunately, applying for an H-1B1 visa is relatively easy to do. This is because it generally does not require an applicant to file an I-129 petition, otherwise known as the Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker, with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Instead, an applicant may apply for the visa directly at a United States consulate abroad without prior USCIS petition approval.

With that being said, you may have to take the following initiatives to get an H-1B1 visa:

• Submit your DS-160 application, otherwise known as the Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application, with the United States consulate.
• Pay the relevant visa fee.
• Submit evidence that you qualify for a specialty application (i.e., degrees, work experience letters, etc).
• Submit a certified Labor Condition Application (i.e., occupation classification, employer name and address, offered wages, etc).
• Submit evidence of your employment (i.e., job offer letter).
• Submit evidence that your stay will be temporary (i.e., the address of your residence abroad).

It is important that you have all this relevant documentation for your application. For assistance in gathering all this, you should reach out to a skilled work authorization permit lawyer in Milwaukee, WI today.

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If you have been struggling to obtain a green card so that you can become a permanent resident of the United States, there is still a chance you may receive one via the green card lottery. Follow along to find out more about this lottery system and how a proficient green card lawyer in Milwaukee, WI, at the Sesini Law Group, S.C., can help you better understand this.

How does the green card lottery work?

The green card lottery is a system by the Diversity Immigrant Visa Program. Each year, this program, which is administered by the United States Department of State, makes up to 50,000 immigrant visas available. They draw these 50,000 immigrant visas from a random selection among all entries. Typically, these entries are mostly made up of individuals who are from countries with low rates of immigration to the United States. And with that, most of these entries are made up of individuals who reside outside of the United States and who immigrate through the consular processing of an immigrant visa.

However, a few of these entries are individuals who reside in the United States in a nonimmigrant or other legal status at the time of winning the lottery. And with that, these select individuals will have their adjustment of status applications processed by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services.

What are the eligibility criteria for a green card through this program?

Say, for instance, that you are one of the lucky winners of the green card lottery. You will then have to confirm that you are eligible to adjust your status under the Diversity Immigrant Visa Program. That is, you must establish the following as true:

• You have been selected for a diversity visa by the United States Department of State’s green card lottery.
• You have an immigrant visa immediately available at the time of filing for an adjustment application, otherwise known as Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status.
• You are admissible to the United States.

What evidence do I need to obtain a green card through this program?

As far as Form I-485 goes, you will have to provide the following pieces of evidence to finally receive a green card through this lottery system:

• Two passport-style photos of yourself.
• A copy of your birth certificate.
• A copy of your passport page with a nonimmigrant visa, admission, or parole stamp, whatever is applicable.
• A copy of your selection letter for the Diversity Immigrant Visa Program lottery from the Department of State.
• A copy of your receipt from the Department of State for the lottery processing fee.
• A certifiable copy of court records, if you have ever been arrested.
• Form I-693, Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record.
• Form I-94, Arrival/Departure Record.
• Form I-601, Application for Waiver of Grounds of Inadmissibility, if applicable.
• Applicable fees.

If you are a winner of the green card lottery, you must talk to a talented family immigration lawyer in Milwaukee, WI as soon as possible.

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Regardless of what type of visa or status you are seeking, you will likely have to undergo interview proceedings with an official from the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). And there is no such thing as being too prepared for these interviews. This is because the outcome of your interview can be a pivotal factor in whether you will be granted access to the United States. Follow along to find out what you should and should not do for your immigration interview and how one of the proficient Wisconsin immigration attorneys at Sesini Law Group, S.C., can help you put your best foot forward.

What should I do for my immigration interview?

We understand just how difficult it can be to obtain an interview date alone. So when you secure this, it is in your best interest to properly prepare for it to take full advantage of this opportunity. With that being said, below is a list of tips on what you should do to prepare for your immigration interview:

• Bring any necessary forms and documents: you should be prepared to respond to any questions the USCIS official has regarding your forms and documents. However, you should not rely too heavily on the copies you bring to answer these questions.
• Bring an interpreter: you should retain the services of an interpreter if you do not understand English or even if you are not fully fluent in the English language, so that you can answer questions to the best of your ability.
• Bring an attorney: you should retain the services of a talented Wisconsin immigration attorney who will ensure that you are protected during your interview proceedings.
• Give truthful answers: you should kindly request that the USCIS official repeat or rephrase their question if you do not fully understand its context. This is better than having to lie and raise suspicions.
• Show up on time: you should even show up a little earlier than your scheduled interview time. Failure to arrive on time or not showing up at all will make it all the more difficult to get another interview scheduled.

What should I not do for my immigration interview?

While not lying to the USCIS official is important, it is equally important to not argue or lose your patience with them.

For example, if you disagree with something that the USCIS official says, then you can better resolve this by pulling out a relevant form or document that you brought to the interview.

Or, if you disagree with one of the questions that the USCIS official asks, then you should still try your best to answer it fully. The odds are that they are staying within the boundaries of what they are allowed to ask you, even if it seems inappropriate or unimportant.

For more information, contact one of the experienced immigration attorneys from our firm, which is located in Milwaukee and Green Bay.

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Oftentimes, refugee status and asylee status are mistakenly used interchangeably. Notably, there are key differences that set the two apart. Continue reading to learn what the difference is between refugee status and asylee status and how an experienced asylum immigration lawyer in Milwaukee, WI from Sesini Law Group, S.C., can help you in obtaining the appropriate one.

What is the difference between a refugee and an asylee?

By definition, a refugee is an individual who is outside of their country and who is unable or unwilling to return due to fear of persecution for their race, religion, nationality, membership in a particular social group, political opinion, or otherwise.

Then, an asylee is an individual who meets a similar definition to that of a refugee, but they must already be present in the United States or be seeking admission at a port of entry. With that being said, the main difference between a refugee and an asylee is that a refugee is granted their status while still outside of the U.S., while an asylee is granted their status after entering or seeking entrance to the U.S.

Unique from refugees, an asylee must apply for employment authorization once their application for their status is approved. Also unique is that an asylee may apply for a green card one year after their application for their status is approved, and apply for citizenship four years later.

However, a similarity shared between refugees and asylees is that they have a right to remain in the U.S. for an indefinite period of time or until it is safe for them to return to their home country.

How can I obtain refugee status?

First, a refugee must be referred to the United State Refugee Admissions Program. And if they are found eligible for this status, they must follow the below process:

1. Submit your application to the Resettlement Support Center, where all your biographical information will be gathered.
2. Attend an in-person interview with a United States Citizen and Immigration Services (USCIS) refugee officer.
3. Ensure that the Resettlement Support Center will request “sponsorship assurance” from different community-based organizations.
4. Take a course on cultural orientation.

How can I obtain asylee status?

To obtain a Green Card as an asylee, you must follow the below process:

1. Complete Form I-485 (i.e., the Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status).
2. Submit filing fees for Form I-485 and for the biometric service.
3. Submit relevant evidence (i.e., approval notice granting asylum, immigration judge’s order granting asylum, any recent legal name changes, etc).
4. Ensure that your application is being processed by the USCIS.
5. Ensure that you receive a receipt notice of your Form I-485.

For more information, we recommend that you consult with a skilled family immigration lawyer in Milwaukee, WI.

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On October 31, 2022, the Department of Homeland Security gave a final rule on Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA). If you are a DACA recipient, follow along to find out how this rule may benefit you and how a proficient family immigration lawyer in Milwaukee, WI at Sesini Law Group, S.C., can help you in assessing your situation.

What is DACA?

First of all, DACA is an immigration policy meant to protect children who were brought to the United States from deportation. Eventually, these children will have an opportunity to retain citizenship in the United States. Since 2012, this policy has accepted 800,000 or more children to remain with their families in the United States.

What was the Department of Homeland Security’s final rule on DACA?

Put simply, the Department of Homeland Security’s final rule signifies that DACA is now based on a formal regulation instead of a policy memorandum. This will protect the program as it undergoes litigation proceedings.

More specifically, the rule establishes the following:

• The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will continue to recognize current DACA recipients’ deferred action, employment authorization, and advance parole as valid.
• The USCIS will not view DACA as a form of lawful status but rather DACA recipients will be viewed as lawfully present for certain purposes.
• The USCIS may grant deferred action and renewable two-year work authorization to non-citizens who meet the following:
  • They meet all eligibility criteria.
  • They clear all national security and public safety vetting.
  • They are found to merit a favorable exercise of discretion.

However, it is important to note that, due to the litigation proceedings, the Department of Homeland Security will not be granting deferred action to any new DACA recipients.

What was the response to the final rule on DACA?

Firstly, the final rule on DACA took into consideration 16,000 or more comments that were received during the public comment period.

With that being said, this rule is a milestone for DACA. Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro N. Mayorkas was quoted saying, “This final rule is our effort to preserve and fortify DACA to the fullest extent possible. Ultimately, we need Congress to urgently pass legislation that provides Dreamers with the permanent protection they need and deserve.”

In addition, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Director Ur M. Jaddou was quoted saying, “Implementation of the DACA final rule illustrates USCIS’s continued commitment to Dreamers. While court orders prevent us from adjudicating requests from initial applicants, we will continue to carry on the important work of renewing and continuing protections for current DACA recipients, as outlined in this final rule.”

If you require more information on the recent rule on DACA, you must consult with a talented family immigration attorney as soon as possible. We look forward to helping you establish your future in the United States.

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Follow along to find out what an O visa is, who is eligible, and how one of the proficient Wisconsin immigration attorneys at Sesini Law Group, S.C., can help you in collecting evidence for your application.

By definition, what is an O Visa?

Sometimes, individuals are required to frequently travel to different countries for their profession. And if these individuals move to the United States, they will need to be granted the ability to obtain employment in the country. This is where an O Visa comes into play. An O Visa allows individuals with extraordinary ability in their field to work in the United States. Technically, this is a classification of non-immigrant temporary worker visas.

Who is eligible for an O Visa?

The following is a list of individuals who may be eligible for an O visa:

• An individual who has an extraordinary ability in athletics.
• An individual who has an extraordinary ability in business.
• An individual who has an extraordinary ability in education.
• An individual who has an extraordinary ability in science.

In addition, an individual must meet any three of the following prerequisites:

• An individual must have won a major award in their field.
• An individual must receive a significant salary in their field.
• An individual must have made an original contribution to their field.
• An individual must serve a significant role in an organization related to their field.
• An individual must serve as a member of an association that requires extraordinary ability in their field.
• An individual must have articles written about their extraordinary ability.
• An individual must have written an article about their field.

It is important to note that individuals who have extraordinary ability in the arts must apply for a subset of this type of visa. More specifically, this is the O-1B Visa. With this, you, your employees, and your dependents will be eligible to enter the United States. However, even though you and your employees will be allowed to retain employment in the country, your dependents will not.

How do I prove my extraordinary ability in my field?

There are a number of items you can use to prove your eligibility for an O Visa, and they read as follows:

• For individuals with extraordinary ability in athletics, business, education, and science:
  • Awards.
  • Itineraries, such as game schedules, production calendars, and research calendars.
  • A written opinion from a United States organization that states your extraordinary ability.
• For individuals with extraordinary ability in the arts:
  • Album or art sales.
  • Concerts or tours.
  • Itineraries, such as concert schedules or gallery schedules.

If you require assistance with obtaining this visa, reach out to our firm today.

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For many immigrants, few things are more important than becoming naturalized citizens here in the United States. While it is a great honor to become a naturalized citizen, the truth is, many don’t fully understand all the benefits and responsibilities of becoming a naturalized citizen. Please continue reading and reach out to our dedicated Wisconsin immigration attorneys to learn more about what it means to become a naturalized citizen and how our legal team can help guide you through the process. Here are some of the questions you may have:

What is a naturalized citizen?

Essentially, naturalization is the process you must undergo to become a United States citizen if you were born outside of the United States. There are various routes by which you may become a naturalized citizen. To qualify for naturalization, you must:

• Be at least 18 years old when you apply
• Be a lawful permanent resident here in the United States for three or five consecutive years
• Be able to read and write in English
• Have continuous physical prescence in the U.S.
• Be of good moral character
• Show loyalty to the principles of the U.S. Constitution
• Take the Oath of Allegiance

What are the rights and responsibilities after I’ve been naturalized?

Once it’s determined you qualify for naturalization, you apply, take the Oath of Allegiance, and become a naturalized citizen, you’ll be afforded a wide range of rights, and you’ll also have some responsibilities to your fellow U.S. citizens. To start, some of your rights are as follows:

• You can vote in elections
• You can apply for federal employment
• You have a right to a prompt fair trial by jury
• You can lawfully remain in the United States for the rest of your life

That said, some of the responsibilities of being a U.S. citizen are as follows:

• Participating in the democratic process, such as jury duty
• You must respect local, state, and federal laws
• You should stay informed of issues in your community
• You must support and defend the Constitution
• You must pay income and other taxes timely and honestly

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There are few things more important to immigrants than becoming permanent residents of the United States. If you’re looking to obtain an adjustment of status, please continue reading and speak with a dedicated adjustment of status immigration attorney in WI to learn more about how we can help you through the process ahead. Here are some of the questions you may have:

What is an adjustment of status?

Non-citizens can petition to become lawful permanent residents of the United States through the process known as an adjustment of status. That said, you should understand that not every non-citizen is eligible for an adjustment of status.

Do I qualify?

To qualify, you’ll need to meet various criteria and prove that you qualify either on the grounds of family-based immigration, refugee/asylum, special programs, or job/employment-based immigration. For example, to qualify through family-based immigration, you’ll need to prove that you are an immediate relative of a United States citizen, such as a parent, spouse, or unmarried child under the age of 21. Ultimately, regardless of the grounds on which you’re looking to receive a status change, you’ll be best served with our seasoned Wisconsin immigration attorneys in your corner.

How do I get it?

To receive an adjustment of status, you’ll need to file a petition, which can take several months, or, in some cases, even more than a year. Likely, you’ll need to submit biometrics and attend a formal interview with USCIS. If you’re looking to become a lawful permanent resident on the basis of marriage, you will need to provide proof that you are getting married to a United States citizen. While you’re waiting for approval, you may be eligible to file for employment authorization to work here in the United States and “advance parole,” which gives you the right to work and travel to and from the U.S. before you receive formal approval.

If you have any further questions about how you can become a lawful permanent resident of the United States, please don’t hesitate to speak with the Sesini Law Group, S.C. today. We are here to help you through each step of the legal process ahead. All you need to do is get in touch.

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John Sesini is an experienced immigration attorney with offices in Green Bay and Milwaukee Wisconsin. Contact the Sesini Law Group, S.C., and schedule your initial consultation with our firm today.

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If you’re looking to live and work here in the United States, one of the most important things you can do is first get an Employment Authorization Document, also known as an EAD. Please continue reading and reach out to our dedicated work authorization permit lawyer in Milwaukee, WI to learn more about whether you’ll qualify and how our legal team can help you get one. Here are some of the questions you may have:

How do I know if I can get an EAD in the United States?

The first thing you should understand is that not everyone automatically qualifies for an Employment Authorization Document. You must first be authorized to work in the United States either because of your immigration status as a refugee, U nonimmigrant, or an asylee. If you need to apply for permission to work in the United States, such as if you have a pending Form I-589, you will also need to obtain an Employment Authorization Document. In this case, you’ll need to file Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization.

Is there a way to renew an Employment Authorization Document?

Fortunately, if you’re looking to extend your stay and your time working here in the United States, you can renew your EAD. If your EAD is expiring or has recently expired, you can file for renewal by submitting a new Form I-765 and a filing fee.

What should I do if I can’t find my Employment Authorization Document?

If your EAD has been lost or stolen or is otherwise no longer in your possession, you can file a new Form I-765 with a filing fee. In some cases, you may not have to pay the fee if you request a fee waiter. You should also note that if your EAD contains any errors, such as a misspelling of your name, you can submit the card to USCIS with a description of what was incorrect with the document, and you shouldn’t have to pay a filing fee of any kind.

If you have any additional questions about living and working here in the United States, please don’t hesitate to speak with our seasoned immigration law firm. We are here to help you in any way we can.

Contact our experienced Wisconsin firm

John Sesini is an experienced immigration attorney with offices in Green Bay and Milwaukee Wisconsin. Contact the Sesini Law Group, S.C., and schedule your initial consultation with our firm today.

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If you’ve been paying attention to the news this past year, you most likely heard about the U.S. Department of Homeland Security proposing a “Fair and Human Public Charge Rule” back in February. If you’re an immigrant who is either about to come to this country or already in this country, it was likely welcome news. We’re happy to announce that now, as of September 8, 2022, DHS has made a final rule to be published in the Federal Register regarding what constitutes a “public charge.” Read on and speak with our knowledgeable Wisconsin immigration attorneys to learn more about the ruling and what it may mean for you.

What is a public charge?

Essentially, when an immigrant comes to this country, they must provide proof that they will not become a “public charge,” at any point, and if they should need financial assistance, that they’ll have someone in the United States who can support them financially. The previous administration declared that Medicaid and nutritional assistance were to be considered public charges, something that simply wasn’t the case in years past. Because of this decision, many immigrants were left wondering about their future here in the United States.

Fortunately, now, DHS has ruled that Medicaid and nutritional assistance are no longer public charges and those who accept these forms of financial assistance don’t have to worry about losing their right to remain here in the United States.

Of the recent Fair and Human Public Charge Rule, Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro N. Mayorkas said, “This action ensures fair and humane treatment of legal immigrants and their U.S. citizen family members. Consistent with America’s bedrock values, we will not penalize individuals for choosing to access the health benefits and other supplemental government services available to them.”

If you have any questions about the recently finalized rule, or any other immigration-related questions, please don’t hesitate to speak with our legal team today. We are here to provide clarification and help you in any way we can.

Contact our experienced Wisconsin firm

John Sesini is an experienced immigration attorney with offices in Green Bay and Milwaukee Wisconsin. Contact the Sesini Law Group, S.C., and schedule your initial consultation with our firm today.

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As an immigrant, there are few things worse than either being denied re-entry into the United States or being forced to leave the United States. That said, this is something that happens virtually every single day, and on a wide range of grounds. However, fortunately, some who’ve been denied entry into the U.S. can re-enter through what’s known as an I-601 waiver, formally known as a Waiver of Grounds of Inadmissibility. Please continue reading and speak with a seasoned I601A Waiver Lawyer in Milwaukee, WI to learn more about these waivers and how our legal team may be able to help you through the process ahead. Here are some of the questions you may have:

Am I eligible for an I-601 waiver?

When someone enters the country illegally or has overstayed their visa and wants to apply for permanent residency, they will have to do so with a consult outside of the United States. However, if you’re in the U.S. illegally but leave, you will likely be subject to a three or ten-year bar from reentering the United States. However, by applying for a 601-A waiver, you may be exempt from this bar. If you were considered inadmissible either due to a criminal conviction, illegal entry into the U.S., a security violation, or because you have a certain health condition, you may be eligible to get this bar waiver if you can prove that a spouse or parent who is legally in the United States would suffer extreme hardship if you’re not allowed to return.

What is extreme hardship?

There are various circumstances that may technically qualify as extreme hardship. Some of those circumstances are as follows:

• They have a medical condition and require you to care for them
• They have another sick family member and need your support to care for that family member
• They are financially dependent on you and you cannot provide sufficient financial support from abroad
• They are in debt financially and cannot pay off those debts without your support

If you think you may qualify for this waiver or you’d like to discuss this matter further with a lawyer, please don’t hesitate to speak with Sesini Law Group, S.C. today.

Contact our experienced Wisconsin firm

John Sesini is an experienced immigration attorney with offices in Green Bay and Milwaukee Wisconsin. Contact the Sesini Law Group, S.C., and schedule your initial consultation with our firm today.

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Many immigrants enter the United States in search of a more prosperous life every single year. That said, children who entered this country illegally with their parents, they were forced into a situation beyond their control. Because of this, the DACA program was instated to help protect children who were brought to this country from deportation, and give them a shot at eventual citizenship. That said, over the years, there has been a great deal of back-and-forth regarding DACA, and the futures of DACA children were left largely in jeopardy. Fortunately, USCIS recently announced an update to its DACA program that should work to the benefit of DACA children, many of whom are now young adults. Please continue reading and reach out to our seasoned family immigration lawyer in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, to learn more about the update and what it may mean for your future.

What does the most recent DACA update mean for my future?

Recently, Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro N. Mayorkas announced that a final ruling has been issued to preserve and fortify the DACA policy for eligible noncitizens who entered the United States as citizens. This includes over 800,000 people in the program.

Of the decision, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services Director Ur M. Jaddou said, “DACA has transformed the lives of its recipients and has made us better and stronger as a nation. USCIS is proud to play an important role in implementing the DACA final rule and is committed to ensuring DACA recipients can continue to remain a vital part of their communities and contribute to this country that is their home.”

Ultimately, the announcement finalizes the existing threshold for DACA, retains the process for DACA requestors to get work authorization here in the United States, and legally recognizes DACA recipients as lawfully present persons here in the United States.

If you would like to learn more about DACA, the recent ruling, and what it may mean for you, please don’t hesitate to speak with our seasoned legal team today. We are here to help.

Contact our experienced Wisconsin firm

John Sesini is an experienced immigration attorney with offices in Green Bay and Milwaukee Wisconsin. Contact the Sesini Law Group, S.C., and schedule your initial consultation with our firm today.

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As a United States citizen with foreign-born relatives, you’re most likely looking to help them gain citizenship here in the U.S. as well. Please continue reading and reach out to our experienced family immigration lawyer in Milwaukee, WI to learn more about how we can help your relative get U.S. citizenship. Here are some of the questions you may have:

Does a Form I-130 help a relative get citizenship?

Yes, it can. Form I-130, known as the Petition for Alien Relative, is the first thing you’ll need to complete to have your relative gain United States citizenship.

Where do I file this form?

If you’re living in the United States and are a citizen, you will file this form either at the Chicago, Dallas, or Phoenix lockbox. However, if you’re a United States citizen, are residing somewhere outside of the United States, and are looking to file for either your unmarried child under the age of 21 or your parents, you’ll have to file at the USCIS international office in your current country.

If there is no location for a USCIS international lockbox, you will file at the Dallas lockbox. In this form, you’ll have to detail exactly how you’re related to the person you’re filing for, as well as various other additional personal info, including:

• Your mailing address
• Your marital status
• Evidence of your citizenship here in the United States
• A copy of your birth certificate
• Your relative’s full name
• Your relative’s date of birth
• Your relative’s physical address
• Your relative’s marital information

Our firm can help ensure you include all of the necessary information in your Form I-130.

Do I have to pay to file Form I-130?

You will have to pay to file the Form. Currently, it will cost you $535 to file this form. You will have to pay the fee either through money order, personal check, cashier’s check, or by credit card via Form G-1450, Authorization for Credit Card Transactions. Our legal team has extensive experience helping individuals through this process, and we are here to put that experience to work for you. If you have any additional questions about how the process works or how you can lawfully get your relatives into the United States, please don’t hesitate to pick up the phone and give us a call.

Contact our experienced Wisconsin firm

John Sesini is an experienced immigration attorney with offices in Green Bay and Milwaukee Wisconsin. Contact the Sesini Law Group, S.C., and schedule your initial consultation with our firm today.

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As a non-citizen of the United States, there is nothing more frightening than the prospect of deportation. Being deported from the country can result in you having your life entirely uprooted and having to start over again in your native country. For this reason, if you’re currently at risk of being deported, the most important thing you can do is continue reading and speak with our knowledgeable and highly skilled Removal & Deportation Defense Lawyer in Milwaukee, WI to learn more about some of the best defenses against deportation and how our legal team can help you. Here are some of the questions you may have:

What are some of the best defenses against deportation from the United States?

The good news is that there are a wide array of potential defenses at your disposal. Just some of the most common defenses are as follows:

• Asylum
• Adjustment of Status
• Cancellation of Removal for Permanent Residents
• Convention Against Torture
• Cancellation of Removal for Non-Permanent Residents
• Withholding of Removal
• Voluntary Departure

Of course, the defense we use will depend largely on the circumstances of your specific case.

Should I hire a lawyer if I’m facing deportation from the United States?

Absolutely. Hiring an attorney to handle your case is paramount, and will likely make the difference between a positive outcome and a negative one. There are several reasons why you should consider hiring legal counsel. Just some of those reasons include:

• An attorney has a firm understanding of the law and any loopholes in the law that may be used to your advantage.
• An attorney knows how to negotiate and deal with legal authorities.
• An attorney can help inform you of your options and understand the bigger picture.
• Once you’re a client, your well-being becomes your attorney’s number one priority.
• An attorney can give you straight advice and an expectation of how your case may go.

If you have any further questions about how our Wisconsin immigration attorneys can help you remain here in the United States, please don’t hesitate to pick up the phone and give us a call. We care about you, your family, and your right to live and work in the U.S. When you turn to us, you can feel confident that you have the right legal advocate in your corner.

Contact our experienced Wisconsin firm

John Sesini is an experienced immigration attorney with offices in Green Bay and Milwaukee Wisconsin. Contact the Sesini Law Group, S.C., and schedule your initial consultation with our firm today.

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For many immigrants, few things are more important than living in and working here in the United States. If you are someone of prominence or with a unique ability, you may qualify for an EB-1 visa. Please continue reading and reach out to a knowledgeable work authorization permit lawyer in Milwaukee, WI to learn more about these visas, how they work, and how we can help you get one. Here are some of the questions you may have about the process ahead:

Do I qualify for an EB-1 visa?

To start, as previously mentioned, to qualify for an EB-1 visa, you’ll have to prove that you demonstrate extraordinary ability in your field. EB-1 visas are offered to those proficient in a variety of fields, including the arts, education, athletics, sciences, or business. That said, it takes more than simply being “good” at something to qualify; you must prove that you’ve attained “sustained national or international acclaim” because of your skills.

How can I get an EB-1 visa?

When applying for this visa, you’ll have to submit various forms of documentation, including your passport, any employment offers you’ve received from U.S. employers, your approved labor certification, your DS-260 confirmation page, and the approved petition for you to work in the U.S. You’ll also need to provide evidence of at least three of the following:

• Received national or internationally recognized prizes or awards for your successes in the field
• Had artistic, scientific, or other original work published and recognized/displayed in some way
• Been asked to judge the work of others
• You are a member of certain organizations that require outstanding achievement
• You’ve been in a leading or very important role in a distinguished organization/association
• You’ve had material such as books, articles, or news stories published about you
• You are paid higher than others in your field
• Proof of commercial successes in the performing arts

Should I hire a lawyer to help me get this visa?

Absolutely. If you are facing an immigration matter of any sort, it’s always best to proceed with competent Wisconsin immigration attorneys in your corner. Our firm can ensure that all deadlines are reached and that the process moves along as smoothly as possible. We’ve helped countless individuals get their EB-1 visas over the years, and we’d be honored to help you as well. Give us a call today so we can begin working on your case.

Contact our experienced Wisconsin firm

John Sesini is an experienced immigration attorney with offices in Green Bay and Milwaukee Wisconsin. Contact the Sesini Law Group, S.C., and schedule your initial consultation with our firm today.

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For many immigrants, getting a green card is a pivotal moment in their lives. If you’re looking to secure a green card, you’ve come to the right place. Contact a green card lawyer in Milwaukee, WI today to learn more about the process and how we can help you through it. Here are some of the questions you may have:

How do I know if I can get a green card in Wisconsin?

The first thing you should understand is that you can get a green card on various grounds. There are family-based green cards, employment-based green cards, and there is also a path to a green card through refugee/asylee status. To get a family-based green card, you will have to reside in the United States and either have to marry a United States citizen, be the parents of a United States citizen, or be an unmarried child under the age of 21 of a United States citizen.

If you’re looking to get an employment-based visa, you will have to apply for permanent residence or an immigrant visa while you are outside of the country. The United States only issues a certain amount of employment-based visas every year, so it’s imperative you meet every deadline when applying. Typically, to get an employment-based visa, you’ll either need specialized knowledge in a given field or you’ll need to apply for a job for which not enough U.S. workers apply.

Finally, those who can prove that they are unsafe in their country and subject to persecution due to their race, gender, religion, or other protected characteristics may apply for permanent residence one year after entering the United States and being granted asylee/refugee status.

Should I hire a lawyer?

Absolutely. Applying for a green card is a complex and document-heavy process, and if you don’t do it right, it can be incredibly costly, not only monetarily, but also to your future as a potential permanent resident. If you’re looking to apply for a green card, the very first thing you should do is retain the services of a competent immigration attorney who can assess your situation, determine whether you may qualify, and, from there, walk you through the process. Our firm has extensive experience representing clients looking to become permanent residents, and we’re here to help you as well.

Contact our experienced Wisconsin firm

John Sesini is an experienced immigration attorney with offices in Green Bay and Milwaukee Wisconsin. Contact the Sesini Law Group, S.C., and schedule your initial consultation with our firm today.

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Getting a green card is a huge step for immigrants looking to reside here in the United States. That said, there’s a lot you need to know about green cards, the freedom they afford, and what your limits are if your green card is currently pending. Read on and reach out to our experienced green card lawyer in Milwaukee, WI to learn more about pending green card applications and what you can and cannot do while your card is pending. Here are some of the questions you may have:

Can I move if my green card is currently pending?

Yes, you are allowed to move if your green card is currently pending, however, you are required to update your address within 10 days of your move. Failing to do so can have significant repercussions, as you may miss certain critical updates about your case. That said, you can very easily update your address through your USCIS account online or file Form AR-11, Alien’s Change of Address Card on the USCIS Change of Address online page.

Can I leave the US if my Form I-485 is still pending?

You are allowed to leave the country for a certain period of time, especially for emergencies, however, if you’re looking to leave the United States for any period of time, you absolutely must file Form I-313, Application for Travel Document before you do. If you leave without filing this form, you will most likely lose your opportunity to obtain a green card. If you have any other questions about this or you would like one of our attorneys to help you draft this document, give us a call.

How long can I expect my green card to take to process?

Once you submit Form -485, you can expect your case to be processed anywhere between a little over six months to 20.5 months. We understand that this is an exciting time, but it’s best to remain patient while you await approval. You should also note that you can check the status of your pending application either by visiting the USCIS Case Status webpage or by calling 800-375-5283. If you have any other questions about the green card process, feel free to reach out to the Sesini Law Group, S.C. today. We are here to help you in any way we can.

Contact our experienced Wisconsin firm

John Sesini is an experienced immigration attorney with offices in Green Bay and Milwaukee Wisconsin. Contact the Sesini Law Group, S.C., and schedule your initial consultation with our firm today.

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If you’re an immigrant here in the United States, you likely face a wide variety of scenarios that may require competent legal representation. After all, your future in this country may be on the line. That said, many people facing these issues are hesitant to hire an immigration lawyer, often because they believe they may be able to handle the matter on their own. This is a mistake, and for several reasons. Please continue reading and speak with our experienced Wisconsin immigration attorneys to learn why it’s so important to retain a dedicated legal team, regardless of the immigration matter you’re facing.

Why should I hire an immigration lawyer?

You need a competent immigration lawyer for several reasons. Just some of the most important reasons you should hire a trustworthy attorney are as follows:

• An immigration lawyer is familiar with the law. First and foremost, if you aren’t an immigration attorney, you likely don’t have extensive knowledge of the law. Handling your own case without an attorney can be detrimental. Attorneys are familiar with the various processes associated with immigration law and can give you useful insight into your situation, providing you with options, tailoring a strategy to your needs, and executing that strategy effectively. Without an attorney who has significant knowledge of the law and experience working within the law, you may very well put your future here in the United States in jeopardy.
• An immigration lawyer is organized. One of the most significant portions of the immigration process is filling out paperwork. There are hundreds of forms and documents associated with immigration law here in the United States, and you need an attorney who can help you navigate them. Additionally, our firm is organized and will have all relevant information in your case file, always at the ready to best serve your needs.
• A lawyer may provide you with a path to citizenship. Depending on your circumstances, you may be surprised to learn that an eventual path to citizenship is available to you. For many immigrants, becoming a naturalized citizen is the ultimate goal. Our job as immigration attorneys is to help immigrants realize that goal.

If you have any questions about your specific case or would like to get to know us better, give us a call or contact us online today. We are here to help you through each phase of your case.

Contact our experienced Wisconsin firm

John Sesini is an experienced immigration attorney with offices in Green Bay and Milwaukee Wisconsin. Contact the Sesini Law Group, S.C., and schedule your initial consultation with our firm today.

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There are few things more important to many immigrants than getting their green card. That said, green cards are only valid for a certain period of time, but they may be renewed. To learn more about how to renew your green card, please continue reading and speak with a knowledgeable Green Card lawyer in Milwaukee, WI to learn more about renewing your green card and how our legal team can help. Here are some of the questions you may have:

How can I renew my green card?

The first thing you’ll have to do is complete a Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card. You can do this either online or through a paper application. If you own an earlier version of the alien registration card, you’ll have to replace it with your current green card.

Do I have to be in the U.S. to renew a green card?

You don’t. If you didn’t apply for a green card before leaving the United States, you can contact a U.S. Consulate office of a U.S. port of entry. You can then file Form I-90 for renewal. That said, if your green card will expire in six months and you plan on leaving the United States for more than six months but less than one year, you can file for the renewal card when you return.

What happens if I’m not allowed to renew my green card?

If your application to renew your green card has been denied, you’re most likely very worried about your future here in the United States. Though you cannot appeal a rejected renewal application, you can still file a motion to reopen or a motion to reconsider with the office that rejected your green card renewal.

That said, you should never do so without competent legal counsel in your corner. Our legal team has helped guide countless individuals through the green card process over the years, including even after their requests for renewal have been rejected, and we are prepared to help you as well. No matter the issue concerning your green card, the most important thing you can do is speak with a legal team who truly cares about your future. Give Sesini Law Group, S.C. a call today to learn more about how we can assist you.

Contact our experienced Wisconsin firm

John Sesini is an experienced immigration attorney with offices in Green Bay and Milwaukee Wisconsin. Contact the Sesini Law Group, S.C., and schedule your initial consultation with our firm today.

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If you’re looking to become a lawful permanent resident, you may do so by obtaining a U Visa under certain select circusmtances. Please continue reading and reach out to a competent U Visa attorney in Milwaukee, Wisconsin to learn more about these visas, whether you will qualify for one, and how we can help you receive one. Here are some of the questions you may have:

How do I get a U visa?

When immigrants or their families are made victims of crimes, such as mental or physical abuse, they can assist law enforcement or other government entities in arresting and prosecuting the case against the individual who committed the crime. In some cases, when an immigrant who’s been made a victim of a crime can obtain a U visa and become a lawful permanent resident as long as they’ve had a perpetual physical presence in the U.S. and have aided law enforcement in an investigation.

Who qualifies for a U Visa?

For someone to receive this visa, they will have to meet various qualifications. To start, they must be a victim of a qualifying crime. Crimes that may qualify include rape, prostitution, human trafficking, domestic violence, murder, kidnapping, female genital mutilation, manslaughter, and sexual assault. The individual (or their family member) must have suffered substantial abuse and be willing to provide information regarding the crime committed against them to law enforcement. The applicant must also be admissible to the United States under current law and the criminal activity must have occurred in the United States or violated United States law. If you meet all of these criteria, you should qualify to receive a U Visa.

Once you receive your visa, it should be valid for four years, allowing you to remain in the U.S. for four years. That said, in certain cases, an individual may extend this visa. For example, if law enforcement requests an extension because the case has not yet concluded, they should receive an extension. Additionally, if the visa is needed due to delays in consular processing or exceptional circumstances, it may be extended. Finally, the visa may be automatically extended upon the filing of an application for adjustment of status. If you have any additional questions or you believe you may qualify, please don’t hesitate to speak with our competent Wisconsin immigration attorneys today. We’re here to help you, every step of the way.

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John Sesini is an experienced immigration attorney with offices in Green Bay and Milwaukee Wisconsin. Contact the Sesini Law Group, S.C., and schedule your initial consultation with our firm today.

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There are few legal matters more personal, and, often, time-sensitive, than those involving immigration. If you’re facing an immigration-related issue and you need legal counsel, you must understand that you can’t hire just any attorney, you need an attorney who checks all the boxes and who can effectively handle your case. Your future in this country may hang in the balance, so it’s not a decision to be taken lightly. For this reason, our Wisconsin immigration attorneys have compiled a short list of some of the most important questions you should ask before hiring your immigration attorney.

Questions to Ask Before Hiring Your Immigration Attorney

Just some of the most important questions you should ask both yourself and your attorney before moving forward with your case are as follows:

• Can the attorney answer your questions? The most important trait of any attorney is having a deep knowledge of the law. If your attorney doesn’t understand immigration law or can’t answer even the most simple questions surrounding your case, you should probably hire another attorney who’s better capable of tackling your case.
• Does the attorney exclusively practice immigration law? Just like you wouldn’t hire a plumber to work on your car, you shouldn’t hire a personal injury lawyer (or any other type of lawyer) to handle your immigration case. Here at Sesini Law Group, S.C., immigration law is all we do. We don’t dabble in several fields of law–we exclusively help clients facing critical immigration-related matters.
• Is your attorney approachable and available? When hiring an attorney, you should feel comfortable and confident in your decision. Here at Sesini Law Group, we keep our clients in the loop at all times, answer each of their pressing questions, and make ourselves constantly available to speak with our clients, should any other questions or concerns arise. The bottom line is that trust is the foundation of any relationship, especially an attorney-client relationship.
• How is your attorney rated on Google? Just as you would look up a restaurant’s reviews before dining there, you should also look up your prospective law firm’s reviews. Sesini Law Group, S.C. maintains a near-5-star rating which showcases our dedication to the well-being of our clients.

If you have any other questions or you’d like to speak with us about your case, simply pick up the phone and give us a call or fill out our online contact form today.

Contact our experienced Wisconsin firm

John Sesini is an experienced immigration attorney with offices in Green Bay and Milwaukee Wisconsin. Contact the Sesini Law Group, S.C., and schedule your initial consultation with our firm today.

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If you are a U.S. employer in need of workers or are an immigrant looking for U.S. employment, continue reading to learn about the PERM labor certification process. Then, call our work authorization permit lawyer in Milwaukee, WI for more information.

What is the PERM labor certification process?

• Step one: Prevailing wage determination request – When beginning the PERM process, an employer must first make a prevailing wage request. This provides the Department of Labor (DOL) with information, like job requirements for instance. The DOL will then issue a prevailing wage determination (PWD) that states the wage for the job and the specific work location.
• Step two: Placing ads and recruiting – The goal of the PERM process is to show the DOL that there aren’t U.S. workers willing to work in this job position, which is why you as the employer need the help of immigrants. Therefore, the second step in the process is very important because it’s when the employer begins recruiting employees. The PERM process involves a series of advertisements, including an advertisement with the state workforce agency, newspaper advertisements, and more. It’s recommended that these advertisements are made within a similar timespan because there’s a 180-day time limit on these advertisements. If any of the advertisements exceed 180 days, then the ad cannot be used for the PERM process.
• Filing ETA form 9089 – The last step in the process involves submitting the PERM application via ETA form 9089. The employer must wait for 30 days after the expiration date of the last advertisement. The employer will then have to wait several months for the DOL to either approve, deny, or audit the request.

How can I become a permanent worker in Wisconsin?

There are hundreds of thousands of immigrants who come to the United States each year in pursuit of better work opportunities. There are a few common visa types that allow immigrants to pursue these opportunities, including:

• EB – 1 visa – These are for immigrants with outstanding skills in the arts, sciences, athletics, business, or education. If they can prove this, then they will receive priority amongst the immigrants coming into the U.S.
• EB – 2 visa – These visas are for those who have advanced degrees in business, the arts, and sciences.
• EB – 3 visa – These are for “skilled workers” with a higher education degree who have at least 2 years of training or experience in their field.

We understand that this is a complicated process, but our team is here to help. Call our family immigration lawyer in Milwaukee, WI today.

Contact our experienced Wisconsin firm

John Sesini is an immigration attorney with offices in Green Bay and Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Contact the Sesini Law Group, S.C., to schedule your initial consultation.

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The process of becoming a naturalized citizen of the United States can be very stressful and time-consuming. We understand all the effort it takes to become a naturalized citizen, which is why it is a great pleasure to help our clients become U.S. citizens. As you begin this process, contact a US Naturalization lawyer in Milwaukee, WI so we can help make this process as efficient as possible.

How do I become a naturalized citizen?

The process of becoming a naturalized citizen is simpler than many people think. Part of this misunderstanding is because of how extensive the green card application process is, so people assume naturalization would be equally, if not more, difficult. However, if you’re trying to become a naturalized citizen, you’ll be glad to know that the process only involves submitting one government document with a few supporting documents, as well as attending an interview. This interview is meant to assess your knowledge of U.S. history, government, and the English language. For guidance through this process, call our Wisconsin immigration attorneys.

What are the qualifications to become a naturalized citizen?

To become a naturalized citizen, you must first meet the requirements for citizenship. This includes:

• Being at least 18 years old
• Must have lived in your state for at least 3 months before applying
• Must be physically present in the U.S. for a minimum of 30 months before the application
• Must be able to read, write, and speak in English
• Must demonstrate knowledge of U.S. history and government
• Must stay in the U.S. from the time you apply through the date of your naturalization
• Must be of good moral character
• Must have had a green card for 5 years or more before the date of the application

Which tests will I need to take to become a naturalized citizen?

As we’ve mentioned above, there are two tests that you will need to pass before becoming a naturalized citizen: the U.S. civics exam and the English requirement. To prepare for the civics exam, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) offers a list of questions that may appear on the exam. You will only need to get a portion of the questions correct, but you must prepare thoroughly because you won’t know which questions will be used on the exam. Your ability to speak English will be assessed by your interviewer, and your ability to read and write will be tested by having you write a sentence in English and read a short paragraph.

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If you’re facing any immigration-related matter, contact the Sesini Law Group, S.C., and schedule your initial consultation with our firm today.

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Asylum status is a form of protection available to people who meet the definition of a refugee. That is, under United States Immigrations Laws, this status may be granted to people outside of their country who are unable or unwilling to return home because they have been persecuted or fear they will be persecuted on account of race, religion, nationality, or membership in a particular social group or political opinion. However, receiving asylum status may be complicated, as you must have sufficient proof for your case. If you are seeking asylum status, continue reading to learn if you are eligible and how an experienced asylum immigration lawyer in Milwaukee, WI of Sesini Law Group, S.C., can guide you through the application process.

How can I obtain asylum status in the United States?

One way you can seek asylum status in the United States is through the affirmative asylum process. Using this approach, you must be physically present in the United States and not involved in any removal proceedings. Also, you must apply for asylum within one year of the date of your arrival in the United States.

The other option is the defensive asylum process. This is used if you are facing removal proceedings and request asylum as a defense against being deported. You, your attorney, and the United States Government will discuss whether you qualify for asylum and whether you should be removed from the United States or not. While the immigration judge does have the right to decide whether you will be deported or not, you also have the right to appeal their decision.

How do I know if I am ineligible for asylum status in the United States?

As mentioned before, asylum status is difficult to obtain. The following are some examples of circumstances that would make you ineligible:

• If you were convicted of certain serious crimes, generally involving drugs or violence.
• If you have taken part in the persecution of another person due to their race, nationality, religion, and other guaranteed freedoms.
• If it is proven that you resettled in another country before arriving in the United States.
• If you were convicted of a serious nonpolitical crime outside of the United States.
• If you are determined to pose a danger to the security of the United States.

If you need any further assistance with the asylum application process, do not hesitate in reaching out to one of the skilled Wisconsin immigration attorneys today.

Contact our experienced Wisconsin firm

John Sesini is an experienced immigration attorney with offices in Green Bay and Milwaukee Wisconsin. Our firm understands what is at stake when it comes to immigration law matters, which is why if you have any questions, you should not hesitate to contact the Sesini Law Group, S.C., and schedule your initial consultation with our firm today.

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An L-1 Visa, an intracompany transferee visa, allows managers, executives and “specialized knowledge” employees who work outside the United States for a company that has an affiliated entity inside the U.S. to come to the U.S. and perform services for that entity. It is a nonimmigrant visa, meaning it expires eventually and is not equivalent to permanent residence or a green card. L-1 Visa holders have the right to work legally in the U.S. for up to 3 years, with the possibility of 2 two-year extensions. One of the added benefits is that the holder’s spouse or minor children may also obtain visas to the U.S. If you are a foreign national working for a multinational United States company, please read on, then contact an experienced work authorization permit lawyer in Milwaukee, WI to learn what you should know about an L-1 Visa in Wisconsin.

Who qualifies for an L-1 Visa in Wisconsin?

In order to qualify, the sponsoring company must have employed the applicant outside the United States for a minimum of one continuous year out of the past three years and is now transferring him or her to the U.S. to work as a manager, executive or specialized knowledge worker. The United States company to which the sponsoring company is transferring the applicant must be a parent, branch, subsidiary, affiliate or joint venture parent of the non-U.S. employer.

The applicant must meet one of the following criteria in order to qualify for an L-1 Visa:

• Manager: Someone who manages all or part of the organization, supervises and controls others, hires and terminates personnel and has the authority to make day-to-day decisions.

• Executive: Someone whose primary role is to direct the management of the organization, set goals or policies, possesses extensive decision-making authority and receives only general supervision or direction from higher-level authorities.
• Specialized knowledge worker: An employee with knowledge related to the company, including its products, services, research, equipment, techniques, management or other interests and its application in international markets, or advanced knowledge of the company processes and procedures. This knowledge must not be widely held throughout the industry or even within the company.

You would be well advised to reach out to a skilled family immigration lawyer in Milwaukee, WI if you fit any of the above descriptions. Our firm will assist you in preparing and filing the correct paperwork as prescribed by United States immigration law. Please give us a call today, so we can handle the legal work.

Contact our experienced Wisconsin firm

John Sesini is an experienced immigration attorney with offices in Green Bay and Milwaukee Wisconsin. Our firm understands what is at stake when it comes to immigration law matters, which is why if you have any questions, you should not hesitate to contact the Sesini Law Group, S.C., and schedule your initial consultation with our firm today.

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For as long as most people can remember, the United States has had the strongest economy in the history of human civilization. Consequently, its wealth of opportunities beckons even nationals from fully developed and industrialized countries, which is why the U.S. offers a wide range of work visas, including the E-3 Visa. The E-3 classification applies to nationals of Australia, who must be coming to the United States solely to perform services in a specialty occupation. This specialty occupation requires theoretical and practical application of a body of highly specialized knowledge and the attainment of a bachelor’s or higher degree in the specific specialty, or its equivalent, as a minimum for entry into the occupation in the United States. For more information on the E-3 Visa process in Wisconsin and how our firm can assist you, please read on, then contact an experienced work authorization permit lawyer in Milwaukee, WI.

What are the benefits of an E-3 Visa in Wisconsin?

An E-3 Visa enables the holder to lawfully reside and work in the United States for an initial period of two years, after which point he or she may apply for further two-year extensions. With some exceptions, there is no maximum number of extensions. An E-3 Visa qualifies the holder for both a full-time position and a part-time position, as well as an unlimited number of transfer applications. As a further benefit, the spouses and unmarried children under 21 years of age are entitled to dependent E-3 classification (E-3D), meaning the spouse is able to obtain work authorization, too. If children of E-3 Visa holders want to work in the United States, they will need an independent work authorization.

What are the qualifications for an E-3 Visa in Wisconsin?

The applicant must be a national of Australia who, among other things, must demonstrate he or she:

• Has a legitimate offer of employment in the United States
• Possesses the necessary academic or other qualifying credentials
• Will fill a position that qualifies as a specialty occupation

Who qualifies for an E-3 Visa?

A wide array of occupations fall under the category of “specialty occupation,” including:

• Lawyers
• Accountants
• Doctors
• Teachers
• Pharmacists
• Social workers
• Engineers
• Architects

You should contact one of our skilled Wisconsin immigration attorneys even if you meet the above-listed criteria. Our firm can assist you in preparing the required documentation and filing the necessary paperwork.

Contact our experienced Wisconsin firm

John Sesini is an experienced immigration attorney with offices in Green Bay and Milwaukee Wisconsin. Our firm understands what is at stake when it comes to immigration law matters, which is why if you have any questions, you should not hesitate to contact the Sesini Law Group, S.C., and schedule your initial consultation with our firm today.

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The opportunities that the United States presents to citizens and foreign nationals alike will long remain one of the appeals of this country. On a daily, even hourly, basis, fortunes are won or lost. Those who are looking to invest in a United States company will need an E-2 Investor Visa. The E-2 treaty investor visa is a nonimmigrant visa that allows foreign entrepreneurs from treaty nations to enter the United States to develop and direct an enterprise that they have invested in. It also allows for executive/supervisory and essential employees of a company owned by a treaty national to come to the United States to fulfill their duties. Those who are looking to obtain one of these special visas should please read on, then contact an experienced E-1 and E-2 Investor Visa attorney in Milwaukee, WI for more information on the E-2 Investor Visa process in Wisconsin.

Who qualifies for the E-2 Investor Visa in Wisconsin?

The applicant must meet the following qualifications:

• The existence of a treaty between the United States and the foreign country
• The majority owner of the business must possess the nationality of the treaty country
• The potential E-2 applicant must be:
  • Coming to develop and direct the business, if they own a majority stake in the business
  • Serving the business in a capacity that is supervisory or executive in nature, or
  • Working in a position that involves skills essential to the operation of the business
• Nationals of the treaty country must own a majority stake in the United States company they intend to invest in or work for
• Investments made with the company must be “at risk,” i.e. there is the possibility that investors will lose their investments
• The applicant’s investment is “substantial”
• The funds to be invested are in the investor’s possession and control
• The United States company is real and operating
• The potential applicant must intend to depart at the conclusion of his/her duties in the United States

Those who succeed in obtaining an E-2 Investor Visa will have the ability to work legally in the United States company that is their investment vehicle, travel freely in and out of the country, stay on a prolonged basis with two-year extensions, bring dependents or accompanying relatives and have their spouses work in the U.S.

Considering the amount of money you likely have at stake, you would be well-advised to reach out to one of our skilled Wisconsin immigration attorneys to learn how to optimize your chances of success.

Contact our experienced Wisconsin firm

John Sesini is an experienced immigration attorney with offices in Green Bay and Milwaukee Wisconsin. Our firm understands what is at stake when it comes to immigration law matters, which is why if you have any questions, you should not hesitate to contact the Sesini Law Group, S.C., and schedule your initial consultation with our firm today.

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The H-1B1 visa is a nonimmigrant visa available to citizens of Chile and Singapore. Under the U.S.-Chile and U.S.-Singapore Free Trade Agreements, employers in the United States may employ individuals in specialty occupations, for a specified period of time. The number of H-1B1 visas can’t exceed 1,400 for Chile, or 5,400 for Singapore in any given year, but this limit is set aside from the overall H-1B cap. The yearly cap of H-1B1 visas, as of the posting of this blog post, has never been filled. If you are a Chilean or Singaporean national who has been offered a specialized occupation in the United States, please read on, then contact an experienced work authorization permit lawyer in Milwaukee, WI to learn what you should know about an H-1B1 visa in Wisconsin.

Who can obtain an H-1B1 visa in Wisconsin?

Much like the H-1B visa, the H-1B1 visa is available to professionals working within specific “specialty occupations” that require theoretical and practical applications of specialized knowledge. In light of that, H-1B1 visas are available to those who work in the following specialty occupations, among others:

• Engineering
• Mathematics
• Physical and social sciences
• Medicine
• Education
• Business specialties
• Accounting
• Law
• Theology
• Arts
• Marketing
• Media
• Finance
• Technology

If you are a Chilean or Singaporean national who meets these qualifications, you should reach out to a skilled family immigration lawyer in Milwaukee, WI for more information on how to apply and how our firm can serve you.

How can a Milwaukee, Wisconsin immigration lawyer help you obtain an H-1B1 visa?

First and foremost, a qualified immigration lawyer from our firm will help you prepare for the application process. This will start with providing proof that you do in fact qualify for the “specialty occupation” in the following forms:

• Degrees
• Diplomas
• Transcripts
• Work experience letters
• Evaluations.

Your lawyer will also aid you in explaining to the appropriate immigration authorities how the degree requirement is connected to the position and how the duties are specialized and complex. Along with your lawyer, you will prove that a United States employer has offered you a job and that your stay is temporary. Because he or she will know the ins and outs, your lawyer will know what constitutes the strongest evidence to United States immigration officials and boost your chances of success. Let us handle the legal work while you focus on honing your skills. Please give us a call today.

Contact our experienced Wisconsin firm

John Sesini is an experienced immigration attorney with offices in Green Bay and Milwaukee Wisconsin. Our firm understands what is at stake when it comes to immigration law matters, which is why if you have any questions, you should not hesitate to contact the Sesini Law Group, S.C., and schedule your initial consultation with our firm today.

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Late last month, the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced a series of new actions intended to maximize the efficacy of, and minimize the burdens to the overall legal immigration system. Put simply, the USCIS appears to be establishing new internal cycle goals designed to expand the availability of premium processing of certain Forms as well as access and availability of employment authorization documents (EAD). If you are asking yourself how this affects you and your family, please read on, then contact an experienced work authorization permit lawyer in Milwaukee, WI to learn how the new actions from USCIS could affect you.

What new processing times is USCIS proposing?

In order to reduce the amount of time it takes USCIS to process cases, the agency has set new internal metrics. As these goals are being met, it is hoped that processing will follow and applicants and petitioners will be given more timely decisions. The following are the USCIS’ new cycle time goals:

2 Weeks:

• I-129 Premium
• I-140 Premium

2 Months:

• I-129 Non-Premium

3 Months:

• I-765
• I-131 Advance Parole
• I-539
• I-824

6 Months:

• N-400
• N-600
• N-600K
• I-485
• I-140 Non-Premium
• I-130 Immediate Relative
• I-129 Fiancé(e)
• I-290B
• I-360
• I-102
• I-526
• I-600
• I-600A
• I-600K
• I-730
• I-800
• I-800A
• I-90
• I-821D Renewals

What Forms has the USCIS expanded premium processing for?

Currently, only petitioners filing a Form I-129, Petition for Nonimmigrant Worker, and certain employment-based immigrant visa petitioners filing a Form I-140, Immigrant Petition for Alien Workers, have access to the expediting adjudication service known as premium processing. Using a planned approach, the USCIS is aiming to extend the expedited processing to Form I-539, Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status, Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization and additional classifications under Form I-140 in fiscal year 2022.

How has access to EADs improved?

In an effort to make progress toward a temporary final rule, the USCIS has extended validity for certain EADs and provided expedited work authorization renewals for healthcare and childcare workers and more to prevent certain individuals from losing their work authorization while their applications are pending.

Please contact a skilled family immigration lawyer in Milwaukee, WI from our firm if you require assistance with these or any other immigration-related matters or would like to know more about the United States immigration legal services we provide. Let us help you navigate this complex and convoluted process. Please give us a call today.

Contact our experienced Wisconsin firm

John Sesini is an experienced immigration attorney with offices in Green Bay and Milwaukee Wisconsin. Our firm understands what is at stake when it comes to immigration law matters, which is why if you have any questions, you should not hesitate to contact the Sesini Law Group, S.C., and schedule your initial consultation with our firm today.

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An H-1B visa is a non-immigrant work visa that grants United States employers the ability to hire foreign workers for specialty jobs that generally require a bachelor’s degree or equivalent. This can include occupations in fields such as information technology, finance, engineering, architecture and more. If you are a United States employer looking to hire a foreign worker, please read on, then contact an experienced work authorization permit lawyer in Milwaukee, WI to learn what you should know about getting an H-1B visa in Wisconsin.

Who is an H-1B visa for in Wisconsin?

An employer looking to sponsor an employee on an H-1B visa will need to establish:

• You are a United States employer offering a role that requires specialized knowledge
• That the applicant has a bachelor’s degree or equivalent in a field related to the offered role

Once obtained, the H-1B visa will have a cumulative maximum duration of 6 years.

What is the process for obtaining an H-1B visa in Wisconsin?

An employer initiates the H-1B work visa process in the United States. The following are the steps that an employer needs to go through in order to file a petition on behalf of a foreign worker:

1. Submit a Labor Condition Application (“LCA”) for certification with the Department of Labor (DOL).
2. Prepare an I-129 petition to file with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
3. Submit the forms and supporting documents related to the position, company and applicant.
4. Wait for the review from USCIS.

On average, the total processing time will vary based on the particular employer, DOL and the USCIS. It can take as long as 6 to 7 months for DOL to prevail wage determination and the USCIS to process the application. While you do not necessarily require a lawyer, you would be wise to reach out to a skilled family immigration lawyer in Milwaukee, WI to discuss your next steps.

What can a Milwaukee family immigration lawyer do for you?

The USCIS provides over 65,000 new H-1B visas, grants thousands of other individuals H-1B state and/or subjects them to the H-1B cap. Hundreds of thousands if not millions of people search for a relatively limited number of visas. A seasoned immigration lawyer will have considerable knowledge about how the process plays out and will help you plan accordingly, so as to optimize an employer’s chances of success. Let our firm handle the legal work for this time-consuming and convoluted process. Please give us a call today.

Contact our experienced Wisconsin firm

John Sesini is an experienced immigration attorney with offices in Green Bay and Milwaukee Wisconsin. Our firm understands what is at stake when it comes to immigration law matters, which is why if you have any questions, you should not hesitate to contact the Sesini Law Group, S.C., and schedule your initial consultation with our firm today.

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Unfortunately, you or a loved one has had an unfavorable visa petition decision issued by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services. While that decision is disappointing, it need not be the end of your hopes to lawfully work and/or reside in the United States. You may always launch an appeal or motion. If you need to know what that process entails and how you can navigate it, please read on, then contact an experienced federal litigation and appeals lawyer in Milwaukee, WI to learn what you should know about appealing denied or revoked visa petitions.

Are you allowed to appeal denied or revoked visa petitions?

Yes, you may be eligible to file an appeal or a motion on an unfavorable decision. An appeal is a request to a different authority to review an unfavorable decision. You may appeal certain USCIS decisions to the USCIS Administrative Appeals Office or the Board of Immigration Appeals. The latter office is within the Department of Justice. Your denial or revocation notice will provide information about your eligibility for an appeal and where you should file it.

A motion is a request to have the USCIS that issued the unfavorable decision review said decision. You may file a motion even if your case is ineligible for an appeal.

How do you file an appeal for denied or revoked visa petitions?

Most appeals are filed using Form I-290B, Notice of Appeal or Motion but there are some exceptions, which are as follows:

• Appeals of decisions on an N-400, Application for Naturalization, are made on Form N‑336, Request for a Hearing on a Decision in Naturalization Proceedings Under Section 336.
• Appeals of decisions of special immigrant worker and legalization applications and termination of lawful temporary resident status under sections 210 and 245A of the Immigration and Nationality Act are made on Form I-694, Notice of Appeal of Decision Under Sections 245A or 210 of the Immigration and Nationality Act.
• Appeals of decisions on an I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, or other decisions that are appealed to the BIA, are filed on Form EOIR-29, Notice of Appeal to the Board of Immigration Appeals from a Decision of a DHS Officer with the office that made the decision on the petition.

If any of this sounds intimidating, you should reach out to one of our skilled Wisconsin immigration attorneys to discuss your next steps.

How can an immigration lawyer help you?

Besides helping you file the correct forms, an immigration lawyer will also know what other documents and qualifications you may need to maximize your chances of success. He or she will help you understand your options so that you can make informed decisions. Our firm can handle the legal work, so please give us a call today.

Contact our experienced Wisconsin firm

John Sesini is an experienced immigration attorney with offices in Green Bay and Milwaukee Wisconsin. Our firm understands what is at stake when it comes to immigration law matters, which is why if you have any questions, you should not hesitate to contact the Sesini Law Group, S.C., and schedule your initial consultation with our firm today.

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If are applying for an O Visa, please read on, then contact an experienced work authorization permit lawyer in Milwaukee, WI to learn what you should know about obtaining an O Visa in Wisconsin.

What is an O Visa?

Many globetrotting models, actors, athletes, musicians and other talented individuals may find themselves relocating to the United States. O visas are granted to those who have demonstrated “extraordinary ability” in their chosen field, giving them the ability to obtain employment. Depending on the applicant’s specific extraordinary ability, one of several different types of O visas is available.

What types of O Visas are available in Wisconsin and how do you qualify for one?

O Visas are available based on profession. Generally, applicants must meet at least threee of the requirements for each category. The types of O Visas and their requirements are as follows:

O-1 Visa: Reserved for athletics, business, education or science:

Applicants must:

• Have won an award for excellence
• Have received a high salary for your field
• Be a member of an Association that requires an outstanding achievement
• Be designated to serve a critical role in a distinguished organization
• Have had articles written about you in a major media publication
• Have written a scholarly article
• Have acted as a judge of others in the field
• Have made an original contribution of significance to the field

O-1B Visa: Reserved for the arts:

Applicants must have:

• Received a high salary for your field
• Played a lead role in a distinguished event
• Received recognition from experts in the field
• Had articles written about you in major media publications
• A record of major critical or commercial success
• A critical role in a distinguished organization

Proving your exceptional ability will not be easy, so you should reach out to one of our skilled Wisconsin immigration attorneys to discuss your next steps.

How can a Milwaukee Wisconsin immigration lawyer help you obtain an O Visa?

A qualified legal representative will help draft, collect, compile and present the evidence and arguments needed to prove your claim to the appropriate entities. He or she will present album or art sales, current or past concert schedules or tours, awards you have won, itineraries, contracts between the petitioner and beneficiaries and written opinions from organizations in the United States that detail your ability. Even with all that documentation, this process will be long and complex. Let us handle the legal work. Give us a call today.

Contact our experienced Wisconsin firm

John Sesini is an experienced immigration attorney with offices in Green Bay and Milwaukee Wisconsin. Our firm understands what is at stake when it comes to immigration law matters, which is why if you have any questions, you should not hesitate to contact the Sesini Law Group, S.C., and schedule your initial consultation with our firm today.

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A 212(h) waiver may be able to help you get a green card if you are currently in a situation where you have lost the opportunity to obtain legal residency in the United States as a result of a recent criminal conviction. It is important to understand that you are not alone and you do not have to go through this process alone. It is in your best interest to reach out to our skilled green card lawyer in Milwaukee, WI today to learn more about your options. Our firm is dedicated to ensuring that you are equipped with the understanding required to get through this process.

What are 212(h) waivers in Wisconsin?

With the assistance of a 212(h) waiver, those who have been convicted of a crime can keep their green card. The waiver can be completed through Form I-601. The applicant must also be able to prove that if they were directed to vacate the United States, they would encounter severe hardship to a parent, child, or spouse. It is important to understand that the applicant must also show that the parent, child, or spouse is a citizen of the United States or a lawful permanent resident. Elements that can be assessed include the length of their residence in the country, family ties, the hardship to them if they are not allowed to stay, the hardship to their family if they cannot stay, and their employment history. Also, they will want to explore the country that the individual would be coming back to and their chance for rehabilitation.

Can I apply for a green card with this waiver?

As long as they have never been in removal proceedings and they have a criminal conviction, an individual can apply for a green card with a 212(h) waiver. Because of this, if the 212(h) waiver is denied by immigration, they could be put into removal proceedings.

Who can qualify for a 212(h) waiver?

You may qualify for a 212(h) waiver if you have a criminal record, have never been in a removal proceeding, and are qualified for a green card outside of having a criminal record. People who were convicted of the following crimes can be able to receive a 212(h) waiver:

• Engaging in prostitution or procuring prostitutes
• Involvement in serious criminal activity where immunity from prosecution was asserted
• Convictions for two or more offenses for which the aggregate sentence was 5 years or more
• Crimes involving moral turpitude
• A single offense of simple possession of 30 grams or less of marijuana

To learn more about 212(h) waivers, reach out to our firm today and speak with an experienced green card lawyer in Milwaukee, WI.

Contact our experienced Wisconsin firm

John Sesini is an experienced immigration attorney with offices in Green Bay and Milwaukee Wisconsin. Our firm understands what is at stake when it comes to immigration law matters, which is why If you have any questions, you should not hesitate to contact the Sesini Law Group, S.C., and schedule your initial consultation with our firm today.

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If you would like to learn more about investor visas, it is in your best interest to reach out to our firm today. Our skilled and dedicated E-1 & E-2 investor visa attorneys in Milwaukee, WI are prepared to help you through the process of obtaining one. Contact us today.

What are investor visas?

The purpose of an investor visa is to encourage trade between countries. These are also known as treaty visas, as investor visas allow investors and their employees to enter the United States, bringing businesses and the jobs they provide to our shores. The E-1 and E-2 visas are in place to do just that. The E-1 and E-2 visas are classified as treaty visas. The objective of treaty visas is to promote trade between the United States and the treaty country. The E-1 visa is mainly granted to employees of enterprises, whereas the E-2 visa is given to the investors of those enterprises. If you are curious about learning more about the investor visa or would like to examine your circumstance with an attorney, reach out to our firm today.

What are the benefits of an investor visa?

There are a number of different advantages to E visas. To begin, it is the only visa that authorizes a foreign national to be self-employed in the U.S. Moreover, E visas are issued for up to 5 years and can be restored and expanded in five-year increments as long as the qualifying activity continues. The principal applicant’s spouse and children of the investor will be recognized in the same category and eligible for employment authorization during the entire time of the E visa. Other benefits include the direct filing with the consular post and you do not need the approval of the USCIS; the ability to remain in the U.S. indefinitely; prior work experience or advanced degree is not required, and there are no statutory limitations to the number of E visas which can be issued.

To learn more about the advantages of an investor visa, it is in your best interest to reach out to our skilled E-1 & E-2 investor visa attorney in Milwaukee, WI today. Our legal team is dedicated to ensuring that our clients are provided with the resources and information they need to prosper in the United States. Give us a call today. We are on your side.

Contact our experienced Wisconsin firm

John Sesini is an experienced immigration attorney with offices in Green Bay and Milwaukee Wisconsin. Our firm understands what is at stake when it comes to immigration law matters, which is why If you have any questions, you should not hesitate to contact the Sesini Law Group, S.C., and schedule your initial consultation with our firm today.

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Our firm understands how stressful the naturalization process is for our clients. There is nothing more that we want to see than our clients become United States citizens. Reach out to our Milwaukee, WI naturalization lawyers today to learn more about how we can help.

How do I become a naturalized citizen?

There are many ways that you can become a naturalized citizen. Even if you have not held a green card for 5 or more years, you can still become a naturalized citizen under further circumstances. For instance, if you have lived in the United States for 4 years under asylum, you may apply for naturalization. Also, if you have served in the U.S. military and lived in the U.S. for three years, you can also apply for naturalization. You can also become a citizen if you have lived in the United States for three years and you marry another United States citizen. With all of that being said, if you have questions about whether you qualify for naturalization, our firm can help you. Contact us today to get started.

What are the qualifications for naturalization?

To become a naturalized United States citizen, you will have to meet the following criteria:

• You must be at least 18 years old
• You must have lived in your state or USCIS district with jurisdiction over your place of residence for at least three months before filing the application for naturalization.
• Students must apply where they attend university or where their family lives.
• You will have to be physically present in the U.S. for at least 30 months of the five years before the date of application
• You will have to prove that you can read, write, and speak English. You must also demonstrate a knowledge of U.S. civics and history.
• You must stay in the U.S. between the date you apply for naturalization until the date of naturalization
• You must be of good moral character
• You must be a Green Card holder for 5+ years immediately before the date of your filing the Form N-400, Application for Naturalization

To learn more about the qualifications of becoming a naturalized United States citizen, do not hesitate to reach out to our firm. Our legal team has the dedication and experience required to help our clients navigate through this overwhelming process. Give us a call today and speak with our Milwaukee, WI naturalization lawyers.

Contact our experienced Wisconsin firm

John Sesini is an experienced immigration attorney with offices in Green Bay and Milwaukee Wisconsin. Our firm understands what is at stake when it comes to immigration law matters, which is why If you have any questions, you should not hesitate to contact the Sesini Law Group, S.C. and schedule your initial consultation with our firm today.

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Once again, migrants who would like to enter the United States will need to stay in Mexico while waiting for immigration hearings, as the Biden administration has agreed to comply with a court order and accept conditions set out by Mexico for continuing the Trump-era policy.

Do not hesitate to reach out to our firm today if you have any questions about this policy. Our experienced Wisconsin family immigration lawyers are here to help you. We are just one call away.

Homeland Security secretary finds the policy to have “endemic flaws”

All migrants included in this policy must be vaccinated against COVID-19. Adults will obtain the Johnson & Johnson vaccine, which needs only one shot. Children who are allowed under U.S. guidelines will get the Pfizer shot and will receive the second shots when they arrive at the U.S. for their first hearings.

According to Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, the policy in question has “endemic flaws, imposed unjustifiable human costs, pulled resources and personnel away from other priority efforts, and failed to address the root causes of irregular migration.”

These cases are determined to be completed within 180 days, as Mexico has voiced apprehensions that they will decline. The Justice Department is assigning 22 immigration judges to work on these cases exclusively.

The U.S. is trying to ensure migrants’ safety

The Biden administration would like to prioritize migrants’ safety when they need to travel to and from the court in both the U.S. and Mexico. Furthermore, migrants returned from Laredo and Brownsville, will be moved to locations further inside Mexico because they are safer.

U.S. officials haven’t communicated how many will be processed daily. The administration has kept in place another Trump-era policy that allows it to return Central Americans to Mexico on the grounds of containing the spread of COVID-19.

Migrants will also have the ability to meet with attorneys before each hearing. The State Department is working with Mexico on locations for video and phone access to attorneys in the U.S.

Additionally, Mexico released a statement saying that “vulnerable” people should be excused, including unaccompanied children, pregnant women, physically or mentally ill people, older people, indigenous people, and members of the LGBTQ community.

Nevertheless, several U.S.-based legal aid groups that have represented asylum-seekers waiting in Mexico are now stating that they will no longer take these cases, which adds queries to the U.S. ability to provide migrants with better access to legal counsel. Administration officials say they think there are sufficiently other lawyers who will represent asylum-seekers sent back to Mexico.

Contact our firm today to learn more about this policy and how it might affect you and your family. Our skilled Wisconsin family immigration lawyers are here for you each step of the way.

Contact our experienced Wisconsin firm

John Sesini is an experienced immigration attorney with offices in Green Bay and Milwaukee Wisconsin. Our firm understands what is at stake when it comes to immigration law matters, which is why If you have any questions, you should not hesitate to contact the Sesini Law Group, S.C., and schedule your initial consultation with our firm today.

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The Senate Democrats have freshly formulated an argument to introduce a plan for legalization for millions of immigrants in their $3.5 trillion bill to expand the country’s social safety net. In a meeting with the Senate’s Parliamentarian, Elizabeth McDonough, Democrats disputed their plan to provide around 8 million immigrants with the chance to apply for Green Cards in the United States. This is referred to as a reconciliation bill because these populations are thought to be the most appropriate group for inclusion.

If you have questions or concerns regarding this potential new legislation and how it might affect your immigration status, do not hesitate to reach out to our firm today. At the Sesini Law Group, S.C., we are dedicated to making sure that our clients are going through the immigration process seamlessly. Contact our firm today to speak with our experienced Wisconsin immigration attorneys.

How will this legislation be passed?

Democrats will be able to pass this legislation with just a simple majority. They do have to prove, however, that the law they are trying to pass along party lines is bigger than just an “incidental” impact on the country’s bottom line.

The legislation will have to go through a “Byrd bath” which is a procedure that was named for former West Virginia Senator Robert Byrd who helped craft the limits for when a political party is permitted to use the special budgetary process.

If you would like to learn more about what this legislation entails, contact our firm today. We are committed to helping our clients through the various details of the immigration process.

Why should this legislation be passed according to Democrats?

The Democrats have argued that allowing recipients of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program, people with Temporary Protected Status, farmworkers, and other essential workers to apply for the Legal Permanent Residency would make them eligible for social programs. These social programs include Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, Medicaid, Medicare, Social Security, and other health benefits.

The effort to include immigration in the Democrats’ economic agenda bill faces far odds, but, it still may be the Democrats’ best potential for accomplishing matters on this issue. This bill has come after a months-long battle to reach a bipartisan deal that fell apart.

Reach out to our firm today to determine whether or not you apply to this potential bill. We are committed to making the immigration process as straightforward as possible for you and your family.

Contact our experienced Wisconsin firm

John Sesini is an experienced immigration attorney with offices in Green Bay and Milwaukee Wisconsin. Our firm understands what is at stake when it comes to immigration law matters, which is why If you have any questions, you should not hesitate to contact the Sesini Law Group, S.C., and schedule your initial consultation with our firm today.

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The naturalization process isn’t always easy and straightforward. It takes an experienced Wisconsin immigration attorney to walk you through this process with ease. One of the most rewarding experiences as an immigration law firm is to see our clients achieve their goals of becoming United States citizens. If you are interested in taking the next step toward becoming a United States citizen, please reach out to Sesini Law Group.

What are the qualifications for the naturalization process in the U.S.?

If you would like to be a United States citizen and are over the age of 18, you will likely have to go through the naturalization process first. To be eligible for naturalization, you must fulfill one of the requirements below:

• You have permanent residence status for 5 years and have lived in the United States for those 5 years
• You have asylum and you have lived in the United States for 4 years
• You are the spouse of a United States citizen and have been a resident for 3 years
• You are a permanent resident serving in the military for 3 years

In addition to the above criteria, you also must satisfy the following:

• Residence and Physical Presence: In order to satisfy this requirement, the applicant may not have been absent from the United States for more than a year.
• Knowledge of the English Language United States History and Government: A part of the naturalization process includes an interview by a member of the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services. At the time of the interview, a test will be given to determine the applicant’s knowledge of these topics. In some circumstances, such as mental impairment or those over a certain age may be exempt from these requirements.
• Moral Character: All applicants for citizenship must show they are a person of good moral character. For example, persons who have been convicted of aggravated felonies or murder are barred from applying for citizenship
• Loyalty to the United States: After the applicant has been approved for naturalization, they must take the oath of allegiance in a ceremony that confers their citizenship.

Why would I want to go through the naturalization process?

Becoming a United States citizen comes with countless amounts of benefits including:

• The right to vote
• The ability to vote for public office
• The freedom of traveling through the world with a United States passport
• No restrictions when applying to jobs
• Improved immigration benefits

Contact our experienced Wisconsin firm

John Sesini is an experienced immigration attorney with offices in Green Bay and Milwaukee Wisconsin. Our firm understands what is at stake when it comes to immigration law matters, which is why If you have any questions, you should not hesitate to contact the Sesini Law Group, S.C. and schedule your initial consultation with our firm today.

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