Helping clients with family based green cards and US citizenship applications.
Helping clients with family based green cards and US citizenship applications.
Processing times vary based on the specific USCIS field office and whether your spouse is a U.S. Citizen or a Permanent Resident. In general, for immediate relatives of U.S. citizens, the process currently takes about 10 months. We monitor local Austin/San Antonio and Texas processing times daily to give our clients the most accurate estimates.
Yes, but you must apply for it. When we file your Adjustment of Status (Green Card) application, we can also file Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization). Once approved, you will receive a work permit that allows you to work legally in the U.S. while waiting for your Green Card interview.
This is one of the most common questions we hear. Historically, K-1 visas were faster, but processing times have shifted. The K-1 visa allows your partner to enter the U.S. sooner to get married, but it requires a second process (Adjustment of Status) after the wedding. A Spousal Visa (CR-1) takes longer upfront but grants a Green Card immediately upon arrival. We can help you compare current timelines to decide which path is best for your couple's goals.
Generally, you can apply for Naturalization (Form N-400) 5 years after becoming a Permanent Resident. However, if you are married to and living with a U.S. citizen, you may be eligible to apply after just 3 years. You can technically submit your application 90 days before your 3-year or 5-year anniversary mark.
You can still apply to remove conditions, but it is more complex. You must file a "waiver" of the joint filing requirement. You will need to prove that you entered the marriage in good faith and not just for immigration benefits, even though it ended in divorce. We have extensive experience handling these sensitive I-751 waiver cases.
You must file Form I-751 during the 90-day window before your 2-year Green Card expires. Do not file too early (it will be rejected) and do not file late (you risk losing your resident status).
Yes, generally you can travel abroad, but you must have the correct documents.
CRITICAL WARNING: Do not travel if you have a criminal record or negative immigration history. If you have ever been arrested or have prior immigration violations, leaving the U.S. could risk your ability to return, even with a Green Card. It is currently not advised for you to travel internationally without first consulting your immigration attorney to review your specific risks.
It is possible, but difficult. Because they have demonstrated an "immigrant intent" (planning to live in the U.S.), border officers may deny them entry on a tourist visa, fearing they won't return home. We advise clients on the specific risks and how to prepare for travel during the consular process.
You cannot travel freely, but you may be eligible for Advance Parole. This allows DACA recipients to travel abroad for specific purposes—such as education, employment, or humanitarian reasons (like visiting a sick relative)—and return legally. Traveling without approved Advance Parole will result in losing your DACA status.
DACA itself does not provide a direct path to a Green Card. However, many "Dreamers" may be eligible for a Green Card through other means, such as marriage to a U.S. citizen or employer sponsorship. If you last entered the U.S. legally (or obtained Advance Parole), you may be able to adjust your status without leaving the country.
Pérez Ramakrishnan Immigration Law
12600 Hill Country Blvd. Suite R-275 Austin, TX 78738 US
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