Applying for a Visa to Become an American Citizen
Thousands of people file to become US citizens, every year. The USA is a nation of immigrants and the country continues to welcome immigrants through legal channels.
The first step to becoming a US citizen is to apply for a visa. Applying for a visa is just one part of the lengthy immigration process.
Here’s everything you need to know about applying for a US Visa to become an American citizen.
Visas and USCIS
In order to come into the country legally, you’ll require a visa from USCIS (United States Citizenship and Immigration Services) which is a part of the Dept. of Homeland Security.
With a visa you can come into the country legally and stay for a specified period of time.
There are two main categories for visas:
Nonimmigrant Visas: These are issued to people who want to come to the country for a short trip.
Immigrant Visas: These are issued to people who want to permanently move to the US. Note that an immigrant visa is not the same as a green card.
To apply for an immigration visa you’ll need to be sponsored by:
- A future employer
- A relative that is an American citizen or an LPR (lawful permanent resident)
Family Based Immigration
In family based immigration, your sponsor will be required to file form I-130 Petition with the USCIS. The form will cost $535; the amount will need to be paid via a check or a money order.
Immigration Based on Employment
If you’re being sponsored by a prospective employer, they will have to file form I-140 Petition. In some rare cases, the immigrant is allowed to file the petition themselves.
Exceptions to Family/Employment Based Immigration
Most people will have to apply for visas through family members or employers but there are a few exceptions which allow people to immigrate through other means.
These include:
- Diversity visas – these are issued to people coming from countries with low immigration rates to the US.
- Entrepreneur visas – entrepreneurs who invest in American businesses and hire at least 10 full-time American workers can sponsor their spouse and unmarried children below the age of 21.
- Petition covered by specific kinds of workers or circumstances set by the American government.
- Petition for a foreign fiancé.
- Petition for an adopted child.
After the petition has been approved by USCIS, you will be required to do the following:
- Collect, complete and drop off the appropriate documents to the National Visa Center
- Get interviewed by a consular officer
- Pay a fee, this is usually between $205-345 depending on the status of the applicant
If your application has been approved, you can legally enter and stay in the US as per the terms of the visa. Those looking to become permanent residents can proceed to apply for a green card.
People that are having trouble immigrating to the US should seek the help of a qualified immigration lawyer.
Milenkovic Law Group PLLC. offers assistance with immigration law, real estate law and personal injury law. If you’re living in The Bronx, Brooklyn, Long Island, Manhattan, Queens, Westchester or other nearby areas of New York and are looking for an affordable immigration attorney, contact Milenkovic Law Group PLLC.