Immigration FAQ: Green Cards, Work Permits, Court, ICE, Asylum, and Citizenship
Real answers to common immigration questions about green cards, work permits, family petitions, USCIS notices, immigration court, and urgent deadlines.
Easy-to-understand summary
This FAQ is designed to answer practical first questions before intake. Immigration answers depend heavily on the facts, so the goal is to help visitors identify the right topic and gather information for review.
Use the FAQ to understand the issue, then submit intake if you need review of a specific notice, deadline, or immigration history.
This FAQ is designed to answer practical first questions before intake. Immigration answers depend heavily on the facts, so the goal is to help visitors identify the right topic and gather information for review.
Save every notice, write a short timeline with dates, and start intake if a deadline, court date, or ICE appointment is involved.
Detailed guide
Use the FAQ to understand the issue, then submit intake if you need review of a specific notice, deadline, or immigration history.
Immigration outcomes depend on status history, location, prior filings, deadlines, and agency records. Use the checklist below to organize facts before attorney review—not as legal advice.
Step-by-step process
- Search for the issue closest to your situation.
- Write down any dates, notice names, or receipt numbers.
- Gather identity and immigration documents.
- Use the correct intake topic.
- Mark urgent when there is a deadline.
Document checklist
- USCIS notices
- EOIR or ICE documents
- Passport, ID, green card, EAD, or I-94
- Family or marriage records
- Prior filings and decisions
- Short timeline of what happened
- Any deadline, appointment, or expiration date
- Preferred language and best contact method
- Names of agencies involved: USCIS, ICE, EOIR, or Department of State
Common mistakes and red flags
- Asking for a final answer without sharing facts.
- Ignoring deadlines.
- Relying on someone else’s case.
- Not saving notices.
- Not disclosing old immigration history.
Important: prior denials, missed court, old removal orders, arrests, false information, travel after immigration problems, or urgent deadlines should be included in intake even if they feel uncomfortable.
Common questions
How long does a green card take?
Timing depends on the category, location, visa availability, agency workload, RFEs, interviews, and the facts of the case.
Can I work while my case is pending?
Only if you have valid work authorization or qualify for and receive employment authorization. A pending case alone does not always allow work.
What is the difference between adjustment and consular processing?
Adjustment usually means applying for a green card from inside the U.S. Consular processing usually means completing immigrant visa steps abroad.
What should I do if I get an RFE?
Save the full notice, identify the deadline, and gather evidence that directly answers what USCIS requested.
What if I miss immigration court?
Missing court can lead to serious consequences, including a removal order. Urgent review is recommended.
Can I explain my case in Spanish?
Yes. The intake process can capture language preference and a Spanish explanation.
Ask for attorney review
Submit your contact information and a short explanation first. Direct contact is organized through intake so the firm can see your topic, urgency, and contact details before follow-up.
References / official sources
These links are provided for general information only and are not a substitute for legal advice.
This page is general information only and is not legal advice. Reading this page or submitting an intake does not create an attorney-client relationship. Representation begins only after the firm accepts the matter and a written agreement is signed.