Michigan Immigration Lawyers

How long does the green card process take?

It depends heavily on your category and country of origin. Family-based green cards for immediate relatives of U.S. citizens can take 12-24 months. Other family categories can take years due to annual visa caps. Employment-based green cards vary — some categories have no wait, while applicants from India and China in certain categories face waits of 10+ years. An attorney can give you a realistic timeline.

Can I work while my immigration case is pending?

It depends on your current status and what you've applied for. Some visa holders (H-1B, L-1) can work for their sponsoring employer. Others may need to apply for a separate Employment Authorization Document (EAD). Working without authorization can have serious consequences for your immigration case, so check with an attorney before starting any employment.

What happens if my visa application is denied?

Options depend on why you were denied. You may be able to file a motion to reopen or reconsider, appeal to the Board of Immigration Appeals, or submit a new application addressing the issues. Some denials are due to missing documents or misunderstandings that can be corrected. An attorney can evaluate the denial notice and recommend the best path forward.

What should I do if I'm in deportation proceedings?

Get an attorney immediately. Deportation defense is complex, and you may have more options than you realize — asylum, cancellation of removal, adjustment of status, prosecutorial discretion, or voluntary departure. The immigration court system has its own rules and deadlines. Unlike criminal court, you are not entitled to a free lawyer, making private representation even more critical.

Can a criminal record affect my immigration status?

Yes, significantly. Certain crimes can make you deportable, inadmissible, or ineligible for naturalization — even misdemeanors in some cases. "Aggravated felonies" under immigration law include offenses that might not seem aggravated in criminal court. If you have any criminal history, consult an immigration attorney before filing any application or traveling internationally.

What is the difference between a visa and a green card?

A visa allows temporary entry for a specific purpose (work, study, tourism) and has an expiration date. A green card grants permanent resident status — you can live and work in the U.S. indefinitely and eventually apply for citizenship. Most people can't go directly from no status to a green card; they move through visa categories first.

Do I need a lawyer for a straightforward application?

Even "simple" cases have pitfalls. USCIS forms contain questions that seem straightforward but have legal implications — answering wrong can trigger denials or fraud findings. If you have any complications (prior denials, criminal history, overstays, gaps in status), an attorney is especially important. Many people who try to save money by filing themselves end up paying more to fix mistakes.

What is DACA and is it still available?

DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) provides temporary protection from deportation and work authorization for people brought to the U.S. as children. The program's status has been subject to ongoing legal challenges. Current DACA holders can generally renew, but new applications have faced legal restrictions. An attorney can advise you on the latest status and your options.