A US visa rules are difficult to grasp, especially if English is not your native language. Getting the help of an immigration attorney with your legal questions can help you make sure you do not end up facing undesirable consequences.
US Visa Information
There are two basic types of United States visas: immigrant and non-immigrant. Non-immigrant visas are used for travel, work or study which is not meant to be permanent. Through these temporary visas, some individuals eventually become citizens or permanent residents. Immigrant visas are used for individuals who wish to remain in the United States without a time restriction. Further restrictions may apply to Mexican citizens due to its close proximity to America and the high rate of immigration from Mexico. A foreigner who wants to come to the United States needs a visa to enter the US if:
- The person is not a citizen of one of the thirty-six countries who are not required to obtain a visa;
- The person is not a citizen of Canada or Bermuda; and
- The person has a statutory ineligibility for visa-free travel even if they live somewhere where they are not usually required to obtain a visa.
A visa does not guarantee entry into the US, it only states that the person has been granted permission to enter. Grounds for denial of a visa can include, but may not be limited to:
- Health considerations;
- Criminal background;
- Security clearance;
- Public burden;
- Illegal entrants or immigration violators;
- Failure to produce documents upon request;
- Ineligible for citizenship; or
- Previous removal from United States.
Thus, staying in America if you are not legally allowed to can result in restrictions on your future right to visit or reside in America. You may be jeopardizing your future options if you do not have the proper papers to remain in the country. If you are found in violation of immigration rules, you could be shipped back to your home country and lose all of your belongings in America.
Getting Legal Advice
An attorney in your county who handles immigration cases can assist you with the visa filing procedures and advise you of your rights to remain in the United States if your visa has expired. Making sure your right to remain the United States is secure can provide you peace of mind, especially if you have built a life here, are trying to complete work or care for others. Get the help you need by contacting an experienced immigration attorney today.
