What do immigration lawyers look for?

If you’ve hired an Immigration Lawyer to handle your case, you’ve made a wise decision. Not only are they experts when it comes to dealing with immigration cases, but they are also with you every step of the way, from questions to paperwork details. Immigration Lawyers are trained to look for various issues during the process to ensure that you have a higher chance of having your application approved. Here are some of the most common things immigration lawyers will look for.



Missing Forms from Your Application

The forms you fill out are not simple. They are long and contain specific instructions on how they need to be filled out. Missing one of these forms will ensure that your application will be delayed or denied because you don’t have the proper paperwork. Immigration Lawyers ensure that all documents are there and completed before submitting.

Proper Document Translations

Along with your initial application, you’ll have to submit supporting documents to back up the information on your application and prove who you are. Examples of these documents could include marriage certificates, birth certificates, bank accounts, and driver’s licenses. Your documents must be translated into English if you’re not from an English-speaking country. An immigration lawyer will ensure all documents are appropriately translated before submitting your application.

Check Your Background Information for Consistency

If you accidentally put down incorrect information on your background history forms, this is considered lying and could result in being banned from the United States. You must have the correct information about locations, dates, jobs, etc. Immigration Lawyers will make sure your information is consistent and accurate before filing your case.

Correct Application Payment

Immigration Lawyers will check to make sure you’re paying the proper fees required for your specific application. On average, expect to spend at least $1,000 on the application itself. If you send the incorrect amount with your application, it will get returned, causing delays and requiring you to resubmit your application.

Checking Your Signatures

If you don’t sign in the proper place on every form, your application will be denied. An Immigration Lawyer will check every form to ensure that the right person is signing in the appropriate places. There are multiple signatures required, including the applicant and sponsor. Checking this simple detail could be the difference between approval and rejection.

Determining Eligibility to Apply

While this one seems obvious, not everyone is eligible to apply for certain visas or citizenship. There is a list of requirements for each application that must be evaluated before you begin the process. Immigration lawyers ensure that you’re eligible to apply, and if you’re not, they’ll advise on how you can get there. By determining your eligibility, you can save your time, money, and effort.

These are a few of the most common things that an Immigration Lawyer will look for before submitting your application. Ensuring that you’re not making similar mistakes on your own application can make for a smooth application process.

Rick Sterger is a licensed attorney practicing immigration law throughout the United States. His practice, located in San Diego, California, represents clients before United States Citizenship and Immigration Services, Executive Office of Immigration Review (Immigration Court), Board of Immigration Appeals, and Circuit Courts of Appeals. Rick proudly maintains the practice of providing his initial client consultation for FREE. To schedule a consultation, call (760) 474-2555 today.