Author Archives: Jay Butchko
How Are Refugees and Asylees Different?
It may seem like the terms refugee and asylee in the United States immigration system are the same. Both are groups that have chosen to flee their home country due to the imminent possibility of persecution. Yet, there is a distinct difference between these two terms. Primarily, they differ in where they are seeking… Read More »
How An Attorney Can Help You Be Successful With Your U.S. Green Card Interview
A Green Card comes with several benefits and is highly coveted by many who wish to come to the United States to live their American Dreams. Therefore, if you are in a position to obtain your Green Card, it is critical that you take the time to prepare for your interview. The Green Card… Read More »
Syrians Get an Extension until 2025 for Temporary Protected Status
The U.S. immigration laws and regulations are constantly changing. Recently, Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Syrians has been extended by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) for 18 months. Now, the adjusted ending date will be September 30, 2025. As a result, eligible Syrians who have been living in the United States since January… Read More »
Online Option for Biometrics Appointment Rescheduling Available
A biometrics appointment is a required step that is part of the process of obtaining a green card in the United States. When attending your biometrics appointment, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will do two things. First, they will take your fingerprints, and second, they will take your photo. Using this information, you… Read More »
38 Countries that U.S. Green Card Holders Can Travel To Visa-Free
There are several advantages to having a United States Green Card. First, with a Green Card, you can legally work and stay in the country permanently if you like. But that is not all. It also grants you the opportunity to travel to other countries without the need to take the time and effort… Read More »
USCIS Immigration Application Fee Hike in 2024
Prospective immigrants into the United States have many aspects of the immigration process to understand and prepare for. One is the cost. For specific immigration applications, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has determined that it will implement a significant increase in fees. The agency has cited several operational and financial issues as the… Read More »
Can I Travel Abroad Without a Visa if I Have a Green Card?
Wondering about what benefits you can enjoy with a U.S. Green Card beyond the obvious, that is, living and working in the United States, is common. Many people know that a Green Card is the closest thing to U.S. citizenship and naturalization without being a U.S. citizen. As a result, Green Card holders get… Read More »
What is a U Visa and Who Qualifies?
Immigrants in the United States who have been the victims of physical or mental abuse and will cooperate and collaborate with law enforcement could secure a pathway not only to safety but also to stay and work in the United States. As a nonimmigrant visa, U visas are for individuals who want to obtain… Read More »
Comparing Immigrant and Non-Immigrant Visas in the United States
The United States immigration system tends to be quite complex and confusing, especially for those who struggle to understand and speak the English language. If you are planning on seeking permanent status and citizenship or if you only plan to come to the U.S. temporarily for a specific reason, you will need to obtain… Read More »
What Evidence of Financial Ability is Needed for an F-1 or M-1 Student Visa in the USA?
It is expected that if you are applying for either an F-1 or M-1 student visa, you have the financial resources to reside in and take up your studies in the United States. What does this mean? It means that you must be able to pay for your living expenses, your travel, as well… Read More »