Immigration Frequently Asked Questions This FAQ is intended to provide clear, practical explanations of how U.S. immigration law works across the most common case types we handle. The questions below are designed to orient individuals, families, and employers to the legal framework, terminology, and process involved in immigration matters. These answers provide general information and are not legal advice. Green Cards and Adjustment of Status What are the main ways someone can obtain a green card? Green cards are generally obtained through family sponsorship, employment-based sponsorship or self-petitioning, humanitarian relief, or special statutory programs. The appropriate path depends on family relationships, employment history, humanitarian factors, and immigration history. What does “adjustment of status” mean? Adjustment of status is the process of applying for a green card from within the United States without leaving the country. Eligibility depends on how the individual entered the U.S., current status, and whether any grounds of inadmissibility apply. What is consular processing? Consular processing is the process of applying for a green card through a U.S. embassy or consulate abroad. This process is required for many applicants who are not eligible to adjust status inside the United States. Who is considered an “immediate relative” under immigration law? Immediate relatives are spouses of U.S. citizens, unmarried children under 21 of U.S. citizens, and parents of U.S. citizens who are over 21 years old. These categories are not subject to annual visa limits. Who is not considered an immediate relative? Adult children of U.S. citizens, siblings of U.S. citizens, and all family members of lawful permanent residents fall into preference categories that are subject to annual visa limits and waiting periods. What are family preference categories? Family preference categories include adult children and siblings of U.S. citizens and spouses and children of lawful permanent residents. These categories are subject to visa backlogs and priority date waiting periods. Can immediate relatives always adjust status? Immediate relatives may have broader eligibility for adjustment of status, but issues such as unlawful entry, prior removal orders, or certain immigration violations may still affect eligibility. What is unlawful presence? Unlawful presence refers to time spent in the United States without authorization. Accrued unlawful presence can trigger reentry bars if the individual departs the U.S. What is a waiver of inadmissibility? A waiver is a legal request asking the government to forgive certain immigration violations or grounds of inadmissibility. Waivers are case-specific and require evidence meeting statutory standards. What is Form I-130? Form I-130 is the petition filed by a qualifying family member to establish a valid family relationship for immigration purposes. What is Form I-485? Form I-485 is the application to adjust status to lawful permanent residence. What is a conditional green card? Some individuals receive conditional residence valid for two years, typically based on marriage or investment. What does “removal of conditions” mean? Removal of conditions is the process of converting a conditional green card into permanent residence, usually by filing Form I-751 or I-829. What happens at a green card interview? The interview generally involves reviewing the application, confirming eligibility, and resolving any remaining questions. What if USCIS does not make a decision after the interview? Delayed decisions are common and often reflect routine review or background checks. What is the Visa Bulletin? The Visa Bulletin shows visa availability for preference categories and determines when applicants may move forward with certain steps. How do backlogs affect green card cases? Backlogs can delay filing or approval depending on the category and country of chargeability. Can someone apply for a green card through a fiancé? Yes. U.S. citizens may petition for a fiancé using the K-1 visa process, which leads to adjustment of status after marriage. What medical requirements apply to green card cases? Most applicants must complete a medical examination with an authorized physician to confirm admissibility. Can prior immigration violations be fixed through a green card? Some violations may be resolved through waivers or procedural mechanisms, while others may limit eligibility. Employment-Based Immigration What are the main employment-based immigration options? Employment-based immigration includes temporary work visas and permanent residence options based on employment or professional qualifications. What temporary work visas are commonly used? Common categories include H-1B, L-1, O-1, TN, E-2, E-3, and certain medical and research-related visas. What is an H-1B visa? The H-1B is a specialty occupation visa for professional positions requiring at least a bachelor’s degree. What does “cap-subject” versus “cap-exempt” H-1B mean? Cap-subject H-1Bs are subject to an annual numerical limit, while cap-exempt H-1Bs are available to certain nonprofit, research, and educational employers. What is a PERM labor certification? PERM is the Department of Labor process that requires an employer to test the U.S. labor market and demonstrate that no qualified U.S. workers are available for the position. What is labor certification? Labor certification is the government’s confirmation that hiring a foreign worker will not adversely affect U.S. workers’ wages or working conditions. When is PERM required? PERM is required for many employer-sponsored green cards but is not required for certain EB-1 or National Interest Waiver cases. What is a National Interest Waiver? A National Interest Waiver allows certain professionals to self-petition for a green card when their work benefits the United States. What is an EB-1 green card? EB-1 categories include individuals of extraordinary ability, outstanding professors or researchers, and multinational managers or executives. What is an O-1 visa? The O-1 visa is for individuals who have demonstrated extraordinary ability in their field. What is an L-1 visa? The L-1 visa allows multinational companies to transfer qualifying employees to the U.S. What is a TN visa? The TN visa allows Canadian and Mexican professionals in specific occupations to work in the U.S. What is an E-2 visa? The E-2 visa allows treaty investors to direct and develop a U.S. business. What are medical or physician visas? Physician visas may include J-1, H-1B, or green card options depending on the circumstances. Can prior status violations affect employment cases? Prior violations may affect strategy but do not automatically eliminate options. Can employers sponsor workers already in the U.S.? Yes, but eligibility depends on status history and compliance requirements. What is premium processing? Premium processing allows expedited adjudication of certain petitions for an additional fee. What happens if an employment petition is denied? Next steps depend on the reason for denial and may include refiling, motions, or alternative strategies. Can self-employed individuals obtain employment-based green cards? In some categories, including NIW and EB-1, self-petitioning is possible. How long do employment-based cases take? Timelines vary widely depending on category, agency, and visa availability. Humanitarian Immigration Options This section explains the primary humanitarian-based immigration options available under U.S. law. These forms of relief are designed to protect individuals who have experienced persecution, abuse, serious crime, or trafficking. Each category has specific eligibility rules, evidentiary requirements, and procedural pathways. What are humanitarian immigration options? Humanitarian immigration options include asylum, withholding of removal, protection under the Convention Against Torture (CAT), VAWA self-petitions, U visas for victims of certain crimes, and T visas for victims of human trafficking. What is asylum? Asylum is a form of protection for individuals who fear persecution in their home country and cannot safely return. It allows eligible individuals to remain in the United States and eventually apply for permanent residence. What does “persecution” mean in asylum cases? Persecution refers to serious harm such as violence, imprisonment, torture, severe abuse, or threats to life or freedom. It is more than general hardship or discrimination. What are the protected grounds for asylum? U.S. law recognizes five protected grounds: race, religion, nationality, political opinion, and membership in a particular social group. A particular social group generally involves a shared characteristic that is fundamental to identity or conscience and is recognized within the society in question. Does asylum require harm by the government? Persecution may be committed by the government or by private actors if the government is unwilling or unable to control them. What is the one-year filing deadline for asylum? Asylum applications generally must be filed within one year of the applicant’s last arrival in the United States, subject to limited exceptions for changed or extraordinary circumstances. What is withholding of removal? Withholding of removal is a form of protection that prevents deportation to a specific country if the individual is more likely than not to face persecution there. It has a higher burden of proof than asylum. What is protection under the Convention Against Torture (CAT)? CAT protection applies when an individual is likely to be tortured by or with the consent or acquiescence of a government. CAT does not require a protected ground. What is VAWA immigration relief? VAWA allows certain abused spouses, children, and parents of U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents to self-petition for immigration benefits without the abuser’s involvement. What qualifies as abuse for VAWA purposes? Abuse may include physical violence, emotional or psychological abuse, sexual abuse, coercive control, or financial exploitation. What is a U visa? A U visa is available to victims of certain qualifying crimes who have suffered substantial harm and have been helpful, or are likely to be helpful, to law enforcement. What types of crimes qualify for a U visa? Qualifying crimes include domestic violence, sexual assault, trafficking, felonious assault, kidnapping, and other serious offenses defined by statute. What is law enforcement certification for a U visa? A law enforcement certification confirms that the applicant was a victim of a qualifying crime and assisted or will assist in the investigation or prosecution. What is a T visa? A T visa is available to victims of severe human trafficking, including labor or sex trafficking, who are physically present in the U.S. as a result of trafficking. Is cooperation with law enforcement required for a T visa? Applicants generally must comply with reasonable law enforcement requests, unless exempt due to trauma or age. Can humanitarian relief be requested while in immigration court? Yes. Many humanitarian forms of relief may be requested defensively in removal proceedings. Can humanitarian applicants work legally? Certain humanitarian applicants may apply for employment authorization while their cases are pending or after approval, depending on the category. Can humanitarian relief lead to a green card? Some humanitarian categories allow eligible applicants to apply for permanent residence after meeting statutory requirements. Are humanitarian cases confidential? Certain humanitarian filings, such as VAWA and T visas, include confidentiality protections under federal law. What evidence is important in humanitarian cases? Evidence may include personal statements, medical or psychological records, police reports, country condition documentation, and affidavits, depending on the type of relief sought. Removal Defense and Immigration Court Proceedings What is a Notice to Appear? A Notice to Appear is the charging document that initiates removal proceedings in immigration court. Does receiving a Notice to Appear mean deportation is certain? No. It begins a legal process during which many individuals may apply for relief. What are the stages of an immigration court case? Cases typically involve master calendar hearings followed by individual hearings. What is a master calendar hearing? It is a procedural hearing where pleadings are taken and deadlines set. What is an individual hearing? It is the trial stage where testimony and evidence are presented. What forms of relief are available in court? Relief may include cancellation of removal, asylum-related relief, adjustment of status, waivers, or termination. What is cancellation of removal? Cancellation allows certain individuals to obtain permanent residence if statutory requirements are met. What are bond hearings? Bond hearings determine whether a detained person may be released. Can immigration cases be appealed? Many decisions may be appealed to the Board of Immigration Appeals. What is a motion to reopen? A motion to reopen asks the court to review new evidence. What is a motion to reconsider? It argues that a legal or factual error occurred. Can old removal orders be challenged? In some circumstances, yes, depending on timing and procedural posture. What is prosecutorial discretion? It refers to the government’s authority to prioritize or dismiss cases. Can someone adjust status in immigration court? In some cases, adjustment of status may be available before the court. What is voluntary departure? Voluntary departure allows departure without a formal removal order. What happens after a final order of removal? Deadlines for appeal or further action become critical. Can removal proceedings be terminated? Yes, if legal grounds exist. What is reinstatement of removal? It applies when a prior removal order is reinstated after reentry. How long do court cases take? Court timelines vary widely by location and complexity. When should someone contact an attorney for removal defense? As soon as court documents or enforcement notices are received. Citizenship and Naturalization Who can apply for U.S. citizenship? Lawful permanent residents may apply for U.S. citizenship if they meet statutory requirements for continuous residence, physical presence, and good moral character. Most applicants qualify after five years as a permanent resident, while certain spouses of U.S. citizens may qualify after three years. What is naturalization? Naturalization is the legal process through which a lawful permanent resident becomes a U.S. citizen. It involves filing an application with USCIS, completing biometrics, attending an interview, and passing English and civics requirements unless an exemption applies. How long must someone have a green card before applying? Most applicants must have held permanent resident status for at least five years. Spouses of U.S. citizens may apply after three years if they meet additional marital and residency requirements. What happens at the naturalization interview? The naturalization interview includes review of the application, testing of English reading, writing, and speaking skills, and a civics exam covering U.S. history and government. Officers also assess good moral character. Can prior immigration or criminal issues affect naturalization? Yes. USCIS reviews the full immigration and criminal history during naturalization. Issues such as prior fraud, extended absences, or certain criminal conduct may affect eligibility and should be reviewed before filing. Mandamus, Delays, and Government Inaction What is a mandamus lawsuit? A mandamus action is a federal court lawsuit requesting that a court order a government agency to issue a decision on a case that has been unreasonably delayed. When is mandamus appropriate? Mandamus may be appropriate when a case has been pending well beyond normal processing times and repeated inquiries have failed to result in action. Not every delay qualifies. What agencies can be involved in mandamus cases? Mandamus cases may involve USCIS, the Department of State, or other agencies responsible for adjudicating immigration benefits. Can mandamus force approval of a case? No. Mandamus can compel a decision, but it cannot require the agency to approve an application. What considerations apply before filing mandamus? Mandamus should be pursued only after careful evaluation, as it may prompt agency review of the full record and requires federal litigation strategy. Student and Exchange Visitor Issues What is an F-1 student visa? The F-1 visa allows foreign nationals to pursue full-time academic study at an accredited U.S. institution while maintaining enrollment, reporting, and work restrictions. What is Optional Practical Training (OPT)? OPT permits F-1 students to work in a position directly related to their field of study for a limited period after completion of their academic program. What is STEM OPT? STEM OPT provides an extended period of work authorization for graduates of qualifying science, technology, engineering, and mathematics programs and requires employer participation in compliance obligations. What is a J-1 exchange visitor visa? The J-1 visa supports educational and cultural exchange programs and may include specific conditions, such as a potential two-year home residency requirement. Can students change status or pursue employment-based options? In some circumstances, students may change status or transition to employment-based visas, depending on eligibility, timing, and compliance with immigration regulations. Working With an Immigration Attorney Why is immigration law complex? Immigration law is governed by federal statutes, regulations, agency policy, and case law. Small factual differences can produce very different outcomes. When should someone consult an immigration attorney? Legal advice is especially important before filing applications, responding to government notices, attending interviews, or after receiving a denial or court document. What information should clients provide to their attorney? Clients should provide complete immigration histories, prior applications, travel records, and any criminal or court documents. Full disclosure is essential. How does an attorney add value to an immigration case? An attorney identifies viable options, anticipates issues, prepares filings strategically, and manages deadlines and procedural requirements. Can an attorney guarantee an outcome? No attorney can guarantee an outcome. Effective representation focuses on preparation, compliance, and risk management. Avenir Light is a clean and stylish font favored by designers. It's easy on the eyes and a great go-to font for titles, paragraphs & more.

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Ellen Kassis Of Counsel | Immigration Attorney Managing Attorney, Texas Office Ellen Kassis is Of Counsel at Katsivalis & Anderson Law and serves as Managing Attorney of the firm’s Texas office. Her practice focuses on removal defense, humanitarian protection, and complex family- and employment-based immigration matters, including cases involving consular processing, waivers of inadmissibility, prolonged family separation, and significant immigration or enforcement history requiring careful legal strategy. Ms. Kassis represents clients before the immigration courts and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services and regularly handles matters where removal proceedings intersect with family-based and humanitarian immigration options. Her removal defense practice includes representation in asylum cases, cancellation of removal, and other forms of relief available in immigration court, as well as coordination of litigation strategy with long-term family reunification goals. In addition to her court-based practice, Ms. Kassis represents individuals and employers in employment-based immigration matters, including immigrant and nonimmigrant petitions requiring careful procedural compliance and strategic planning. Her employment-based work often involves navigating complex factual records, prior immigration history, or timing considerations that affect eligibility and long-term immigration outcomes. Ms. Kassis also advises clients in complex consular processing matters, including cases affected by prior immigration violations, inadmissibility issues, or documentation challenges. Her work frequently involves navigating procedural obstacles and developing legally sound strategies in high-stakes family and employment-based cases. Originally from Palestine, Ms. Kassis brings substantive regional knowledge and cultural competence to her representation, particularly in cases involving country conditions, political instability, and cross-border family dynamics in the Middle East. This background informs her approach to asylum and humanitarian matters where contextual understanding and country-conditions analysis are critical. Ms. Kassis speaks Arabic and Armenian and is able to work directly with Arabic- and Armenian-speaking clients, particularly in removal defense, asylum, and family- and employment-based matters where clear communication and cultural understanding are essential. She is known for her careful preparation, steady guidance, and ability to manage procedurally and emotionally complex cases with clarity and professionalism. Areas of Practice Removal defense and immigration court litigation, including asylum and cancellation of removal Humanitarian immigration relief, including asylum-related protection Family-based immigration, including adjustment of status, consular processing, and waivers of inadmissibility Employment-based immigration matters Complex consular processing and family reunification matters Education Juris Doctor, Valparaiso University School of Law Bar Admissions Illinois Professional Affiliations American Immigration Lawyers Associatio n

Our family immigration lawyer assists with visas, green cards, and citizenship, ensuring your family's immigration needs are met with care and expertise. الهجرة للعمل والأعمال الهجرة للعمل والأعمال الهجرة للعمل والأعمال الهجرة للعمل والأعمال نحن نقدم المشورة للشركات ورجال الأعمال، والباحثين عن عمل. دعونا نتحدث نحن نبني الأعمال ونؤسس المهن عند توظيف موظف رئيسي، أو بناء مشروع جديد، أو اتخاذ الخطوة التالية في مسيرتك المهنية، فأنت تستحق توجيهًا عمليًا واضحًا ورعاية. في مكتب كاتسيفاليس وأندرسون للمحاماة، نُحوّل القواعد المعقدة إلى خطة واضحة يمكنك اتباعها، ونرافقك في كل خطوة. كيف نعمل نبدأ بمكالمة استراتيجية مُركزة، ونقدم خارطة طريق مكتوبة تُقارن الخيارات والرسوم. ستحصل على قوائم مرجعية بسيطة، وإجابات سريعة على أسئلتك، وملفات كاملة ومنظمة. تأشيرات العمل لغير المهاجرين فرص العمل المؤقتة في الولايات المتحدة تأشيرات H-1B المعفاة من الحد الأقصى والحد الأقصى تأشيرة H-1B مخصصة للوظائف التي تتطلب شهادة جامعية محددة ومعرفة متخصصة. تخضع العديد من الوظائف للحد الأقصى السنوي، ومع ذلك، يمكن إعفاء العديد من المسارات من هذا الحد، بما في ذلك جهات العمل المؤهلة في التعليم العالي، والهيئات غير الربحية ذات الصلة أو التابعة، ومنظمات البحث غير الربحية أو الحكومية، والوظائف التي تُؤدى بشكل رئيسي في مؤسسة مؤهلة ولها صلة واضحة بها. نقوم بتقييم الإعفاءات من الحد الأقصى في مختلف القطاعات، ونعد أوصافًا وظيفية دقيقة وتقييمات دورة حياة العمل، ونرفع التماسات قوية. يتمتع فريقنا بخبرة واسعة مع المعلمين والأنظمة المدرسية، كما نخطط للتوظيف المتزامن وقابلية النقل حتى تتمكن المدارس وأصحاب العمل من تلبية احتياجات التوظيف دون انتظار القرعة عندما تسمح القواعد بذلك. TN للمحترفين الكنديين والمكسيكيين تشمل حالة ولاية تينيسي المهن المدرجة ضمن اتفاقية الولايات المتحدة والمكسيك وكندا (USMCA). نتأكد من صحة متطلبات الفئة والدرجة العلمية، ونُعدّ خطاب جهة العمل، ونُرشدك خلال إجراءات ميناء الدخول أو طلبات خدمات المواطنة والهجرة الأمريكية (USCIS). كما نخطط لاستراتيجية طويلة المدى لتجنب أي مشاكل تتعلق بنية الهجرة لاحقًا. الأفراد ذوو القدرات الاستثنائية من الفئة O-1 للمهنيين ذوي سجل إنجازات بارزة في الفنون، والعلوم، والتعليم، والأعمال التجارية، أو الرياضة. نقوم بمراجعة الأدلة، مثل الصحافة، والمنشورات، والمشاريع الرئيسية، ورسائل الخبراء، والعقود، ونُطابقها مع معايير O-1، ونُخطّط للانتقال إلى EB-1 أو NIW عندما يكون الهدف هو الإقامة الدائمة. المنقولون داخل الشركة من الفئة L-1 للمديرين التنفيذيين والمدراء والموظفين ذوي المعرفة المتخصصة الذين ينتقلون من شركة أجنبية مؤهلة إلى كيان أمريكي. نوثق الملكية والتحكم، ونحدد المهام بوضوح، ونقدم للمكاتب الجديدة خطط عمل وتوقعات توظيف موثوقة. تاجر معاهدة E-1 ومستثمر معاهدة E-2 لمواطني الدول المتعاقدة التي تربطها علاقات تجارية واسعة مع الولايات المتحدة أو تستثمر في مشروع قائم. نتولى هيكلة الكيانات، ووثائق مصادر التمويل، وخطط الأعمال، وإثباتات التشغيل، والملفات القنصلية أو ملفات دائرة خدمات المواطنة والهجرة الأمريكية (USCIS). لا نتولى برنامج EB-5. يمكن للمؤسسين الذين يديرون كيانًا أجنبيًا أيضًا النظر في خطة مكتب جديد L-1. زوار التبادل J-1 لبرامج التبادل المعتمدة، بما في ذلك الباحثين والأساتذة والمتدربين. ننسق مع الجهات الراعية، ونتأكد من الأهلية والتمويل، ونخطط للمسار المستقبلي عند استيفاء شرط الإقامة في الوطن. متدربون من الفئة H-3 للتدريب المنظم وغير الإنتاجي غير المتوفر في بلد المنشأ. نصمم مناهج دراسية وجداول زمنية وخطط إشرافية متوافقة، ونتأكد من أن الدور يركز على التدريب وليس على العمل الاعتيادي. E-3 للمهنيين الأستراليين على غرار تأشيرة H-1B، يقتصر تقديمها على المواطنين الأستراليين. نُعدُّ طلبَ حالة العمل، ونؤكدُ المهنةَ المتخصصة، وندعمُ الملفاتَ القنصليةَ أو طلباتَ تغييرِ الوضع. R-1 العاملين الدينيين للوزراء والعاملين في المجال الديني العاملين لدى منظمات دينية غير ربحية موثوقة. نُعدُّ أهلية المؤسسة، وإثباتات التعويض، والاستعداد لزيارة الموقع، والتخطيط طويل الأمد للإقامة الدائمة عند توفرها. إعفاءات كونراد 30 J-1 للأطباء نساعد العيادات والأطباء في الحصول على رعاية حكومية، وتأكيد أهلية مراكز الخدمة، وصياغة العقود المتوافقة، وتقديم طلب تأشيرة H-1B. ننسق التراخيص ومواعيد البدء لضمان استمرار رعاية المرضى. تأشيرات العمل للمهاجرين Permanent work opportunities in the United States إعفاء المصلحة الوطنية (NIW) للمهنيين ورواد الأعمال الذين يُفيد عملهم الولايات المتحدة بشكل هادف. نساعدكم في تحديد مساعيكم، وتوثيق سجلكم الحافل، وبناء سجل متماسك يُلبي معيار دهناسار. هذا المسار يُغني عن عملية PERM عند استيفاء شروط الأهلية. شهادة العمل (PERM) واستراتيجية الفئة اختبار PERM هو اختبار سوق العمل المطلوب للعديد من بطاقات الإقامة الخضراء (Green Cards). يعتمد النجاح على دقة الحد الأدنى من المتطلبات، والأجر السائد الصحيح، والتوظيف الملتزم، والسجلات الجاهزة للتدقيق. نصمم معايير موضوعية، ونختار رمز SOC ومستوى الأجر المناسبين، وندير التوظيف، ونُعدّ ملفًا كاملًا. كما نخطط لاستراتيجية فئات المهاجرين، بما في ذلك EB-1 عندما لا يكون PERM مطلوبًا، وEB-2 وEB-3 بما في ذلك العمال الآخرين، والجدول A حيث يُطبّق نهج مُعتمد مسبقًا. EB-1 قدرة استثنائية، وأستاذ أو باحث متميز، ومدير متعدد الجنسيات للقادة المتميزين في مجالاتهم. نبني سجلاً حافلاً بالنجاحات المتواصلة لفئة EB-1A، ونُعدّ الأدلة ونُقدّم خطابات التقديم لفئة EB-1B، ونُثبت جدارة علاقات الشركات والوظائف التنفيذية لفئة EB-1C. إذا كنت تُقيّم فئة O-1 وفئة EB-1 معًا، فسنضع خطة مُتدرجة تضمن الحصول على تصريح العمل وتوقيته. Stay Up To Date on Immigration Matters First Name Last Name Email Join Our Mailing List Anchor 1 Anchor 1 Anchor 1 اتصال info@kaimmigrationlaw.com 773.657.3633 مواقعنا شيكاغو ميلووكي أوستن

George Katsivalis Of Counsel | Immigration Attorney Founder and Former Partner George Katsivalis is a founder and former partner of Katsivalis & Anderson Law and now serves as Of Counsel to the firm. With more than three decades of experience in immigration law, his current work is focused on consulting, strategic planning, public speaking, and advising attorneys and clients on complex immigration matters involving enforcement, criminal issues, and high-risk procedural posture. Mr. Katsivalis previously served as a United States Immigration Judge and as a senior government attorney, including as Chief Counsel for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement in Chicago and as District Counsel for the Immigration and Naturalization Service. He also served as a Special Assistant United States Attorney in the Northern District of Illinois. These roles give him a deep, practical understanding of immigration enforcement and adjudication from the government’s perspective. In his Of Counsel role, Mr. Katsivalis is frequently consulted by attorneys and clients on matters involving criminal-immigration issues, denaturalization defense strategy, detention and bond considerations, and complex removal proceedings. His work centers on case assessment, issue spotting, procedural strategy, and advising on legal risk, rather than routine case handling. He also engages in public speaking and professional education, drawing on his experience as an adjudicator and government attorney to provide insight into immigration court practice, enforcement trends, and strategic considerations in high-stakes cases. Mr. Katsivalis is known for his direct, practical approach and for helping attorneys and clients understand how immigration cases are likely to be evaluated within the enforcement and adjudicatory system. Areas of Focus Strategic consulting and case assessment Criminal-immigration issues and immigration consequences of criminal convictions Denaturalization defense strategy Removal defense strategy and procedural analysis Public speaking and professional education Education Bachelor of Science, Elmhurst College Juris Doctor, The John Marshall Law School Master of Business Administration, Rosary College Bar Admissions Illinois United States Supreme Court United States Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois Professional Affiliations American Immigration Lawyers Association

Our family immigration lawyer assists with visas, green cards, and citizenship, ensuring your family's immigration needs are met with care and expertise. الهجرة الإنسانية الهجرة الإنسانية الهجرة الإنسانية الهجرة الإنسانية عندما تكون السلامة أو استقرار الأسرة في خطر، فإننا نقدم إرشادات واضحة ورحيمة بشأن الخيارات الإنسانية دعونا نتحدث الدعم والأمان، نحن هنا من أجلك عندما يكون سلامتك أو استقرار أسرتك في خطر، فأنت تستحق إرشادًا عمليًا واضحًا ورعاية. في مكتب كاتسيفاليس وأندرسون للمحاماة، نُحوّل الحالات العاجلة إلى خطة واضحة يمكنك اتباعها، ونبقى معك في كل خطوة. كيف نعمل نبدأ بمكالمة استراتيجية مُركّزة، ونُقدّم خارطة طريق مكتوبة تُقارن الخيارات والرسوم. ستحصل على قوائم مرجعية بسيطة، ودعم مُراعي للصدمات النفسية، وملفات كاملة ومنظمة جيدًا. طريق آمن للمضي قدمًا اللجوء، وحجب الإبعاد، واتفاقية مناهضة التعذيب حماية الأشخاص الذين يخشون الاضطهاد أو التعذيب في حال عودتهم إلى وطنهم. نُعدُّ إقراراتٍ مفصّلة، وأدلةٍ على ظروف البلد، ونمثلكم في المقابلات وفي محكمة الهجرة. التماسات ذاتية لقانون العنف ضد المرأة إعفاء سري لأزواج وآباء وأبناء مواطني الولايات المتحدة أو المقيمين الدائمين الذين تعرضوا للإساءة. نبني سجلاً حافلاً بالمعلومات، ونحمي خصوصيتكم، وننسق إجراءات الحصول على تصريح العمل والإقامة الدائمة عند الاستحقاق. تأشيرات U لضحايا الجرائم للضحايا الذين عانوا من أضرار جسيمة وتعاونوا مع جهات إنفاذ القانون. نحصل على شهادات إنفاذ القانون، ونوثق الأضرار وإعادة التأهيل، ونُعدّ تنازلات عند الحاجة. تأشيرات T للناجين من الإتجار بالبشر حمايةٌ ومسارٌ نحو الاستقرار لضحايا الاتجار بالعمالة أو الجنس. نوثّق حالات التجنيد والإجبار والاحتيال والإكراه، ونجمع أدلةً على جهودٍ حسنة النية سعياً وراء الأمان، ونرشدكم خلال فترة الاستحقاقات والوضع القانوني طويل الأمد. الوضع المحمي المؤقت (TPS) حماية مؤقتة لمواطني الدول المحددة. نؤكد أهلية الحصول على الحماية، ونقدم طلبات أولية وتجديدية، وننسق برنامج الحماية المؤقتة مع تصريح العمل والخيارات المستقبلية. الإفراج المشروط لأسباب إنسانية نصدر تصاريح دخول أو إقامة في الولايات المتحدة الأمريكية لكل حالة على حدة لأسباب طارئة. نجمع خطابات الدعم، وأدلة الحاجة العاجلة، والتزامات الكفيل. الإفراج المشروط متاح لعائلات العسكريين إعفاء اختياري لبعض أفراد عائلات أفراد الخدمة العسكرية الأمريكية والمحاربين القدامى. نُعد الطلب ونخطط للخطوات اللازمة للحصول على الإقامة الدائمة عند توفرها. وضع الأحداث المهاجرين الخاص (SIJS) للأطفال المؤهلين الذين لا يستطيعون لمّ شملهم مع أحد والديهم أو كليهما بسبب الإساءة أو الإهمال أو الهجر. ننسق نتائج محكمة الولاية اللازمة ونقدم طلب SIJS إلى دائرة خدمات المواطنة والهجرة الأمريكية (USCIS). إيقافات الإزالة والتأجيل الطلبات العاجلة التي تُوقف التنفيذ ريثما يتمّ الحصول على الإعفاء الأساسي. نُعدّ طلبات إيقاف التنفيذ، وحزم الإجراءات المؤجلة، ونتواصل مع مكاتب التنفيذ. تجديدات DACA والإفراج المشروط المسبق لمن يستوفون شروط برنامج "الإجراء المؤجل للقادمين في مرحلة الطفولة". ندير تجديدات الإقامة في الوقت المناسب، وتحديثات الأدلة، والتخطيط المسبق للإفراج المشروط للسفر المؤهل. الاستعداد الأسري والتخطيط لتوكيل رسمي يوفر لك تخطيط انفصال الأسرة راحة البال قبل أي طارئ. نساعدك في إعداد توكيلات رسمية متوافقة مع قوانين الولاية للممتلكات والأموال، وموافقات مؤقتة لمقدمي الرعاية أو الوصاية على الأطفال، ونماذج العلاج الطبي وتصاريح المدارس، وخطة اتصال ووثائق للطوارئ. في حال الحاجة إلى إجراءات إضافية تتعلق بقانون الأسرة، ننسق مع مستشارين قانونيين موثوقين لنوفر لك حزمة شاملة وعملية يمكن لمقدمي الرعاية والمدارس استخدامها فورًا. Stay Up To Date on Immigration Matters First Name Last Name Email Join Our Mailing List Anchor 1 Anchor 1 Anchor 1 اتصال info@kaimmigrationlaw.com 773.657.3633 مواقعنا شيكاغو ميلووكي أوستن

Laureen Anderson Owner | Immigration Attorney Laureen Anderson-Stepanek is the owner of Katsivalis & Anderson Law and has practiced immigration law since 2002. Her work focuses on complex immigration matters that require advanced legal analysis and strategic planning, including removal defense, federal court litigation, employment-based immigration, family-based cases involving inadmissibility issues, and humanitarian relief. She represents individuals, families, and employers nationwide before U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, the immigration courts, the Board of Immigration Appeals, and the federal courts. Ms. Anderson-Stepanek is particularly known for handling cases involving prior denials, criminal-immigration intersections, procedural barriers, and matters requiring appellate or federal court intervention. Her practice includes extensive federal appellate and district court litigation involving constitutional, statutory, and procedural challenges arising from immigration adjudications, enforcement actions, and detention. She routinely advises clients in matters where legal posture, procedural history, or enforcement considerations require careful navigation and long-term strategic planning. In addition to litigation, Ms. Anderson-Stepanek advises employers and professionals on employment-based immigration strategies, including PERM labor certification, EB-1 and EB-2 National Interest Waiver cases, and nonimmigrant visa options. Her practice includes significant work with healthcare systems, hospitals, physicians, and educational institutions, including cap-exempt H-1B petitions for public schools, universities, and nonprofit or government-affiliated hospitals, as well as Conrad J-1 waiver cases for physicians serving in medically underserved areas. She also regularly handles family-based immigration matters involving adjustment of status, consular processing, waivers of inadmissibility, removal of conditions, and naturalization, particularly where cases involve complex immigration histories or enforcement considerations. Her humanitarian practice includes asylum-related protection and VAWA-based matters, with a focus on careful factual development and legally sound case strategy. Ms. Anderson-Stepanek is recognized for her ability to assess cases realistically, identify legal issues early, and guide clients through high-stakes immigration decisions with clarity and precision. Areas of Concentration Removal defense and immigration court litigation Federal court litigation and appeals Family-based immigration, adjustment of status, waivers, removal of conditions, and naturalization Employment-based immigration, including PERM, EB-1, and EB-2 National Interest Waiver cases Medical and healthcare immigration, including cap-exempt H-1Bs and Conrad J-1 waivers Education-based immigration for public schools, universities, and nonprofit institutions Humanitarian immigration relief, including asylum-related protection and VAWA matters Honors and Recognition Recognized as a Super Lawyer in immigration law since 2021. Bayo v. Napolitano, 593 F.3d 495 (7th Cir. 2010) (en banc). Sarhan v. Holder, 658 F.3d 649 (7th Cir. 2011). Education Juris Doctor, University of Iowa College of Law Bachelor of Arts, Illinois State University Postgraduate Studies, University of Wisconsin–Parkside Bar Admissions Supreme Court of Illinois United States Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois United States District Court for the District of Columbia Professional Affiliations American Immigration Lawyers Association

Experienced immigration attorneys practicing in the area of deportation defense, family immigration, employment immigration, and humanitarian immigration. محامينا Katsivalis & Anderson Law is a nationally respected immigration law firm with decades of combined experience handling complex, high-stakes immigration matters. Our attorneys represent individuals, families, employers, institutions, and professionals across the United States in cases involving removal defense, humanitarian protection, family- and employment-based immigration, federal court litigation, and long-term immigration strategy. The firm’s attorneys bring deep subject-matter expertise, courtroom experience, and cultural competence to their work. Our practice includes representation before U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, the immigration courts, the Board of Immigration Appeals, U.S. consulates abroad, and the federal courts. We regularly handle matters involving prior denials, inadmissibility issues, prolonged family separation, asylum and humanitarian relief, employment-based pathways, and procedurally complex cases requiring careful legal planning. Our team includes former government attorneys, experienced litigators, and practitioners with extensive regional, linguistic, and cultural knowledge. Collectively, we are known for thoughtful case analysis, clear client guidance, and a willingness to take on cases that require depth, precision, and persistence. Learn more about each attorney below. Laureen Anderson-Stepanek Owner [View full bio] George Katsivalis Of Counsel (founder & former partner) [View full bio] Jennie Giambastiani Of Counsel [View full bio] Renae M. Yoo Of Counsel [View full bio] Ellen Kassis Of Counsel | Managing Attorney, Texas Office [View full bio] I'm a paragraph. Click here to add your own text and edit me. It's easy.

Our deportation defense lawyer handles removal defense, appeals, and lawsuits against the government to protect your rights and keep your family together. الدفاع عن الترحيل والتقاضي الدفاع عن الترحيل والتقاضي الدفاع عن الترحيل والتقاضي الدفاع عن الترحيل والتقاضي نحن نقوم بجميع مجالات الدفاع عن الإزالات والاستئنافات والدعاوى القضائية ضد الحكومة. دعونا نتحدث الدفاع عن الترحيل والتقاضي: حماية حقك في البقاء قد يُحدث الترحيل، أو الإبعاد من الولايات المتحدة، عواقبَ مُغيّرة لحياة الأفراد وعائلاتهم. وتُعدّ مواجهة إجراءات الترحيل أمرًا مُرهقًا، لا سيّما مع الإجراءات القانونية المُعقّدة والمتطلبات الصارمة المُرتبطة بها. في مكتب KA لقانون الهجرة، نُدرك مدى إلحاح وحساسية قضايا الترحيل، ونلتزم بتقديم خدمات دفاع وتقاضي فعّالة في قضايا الترحيل لحماية حقوق موكلينا في البقاء في البلاد. فهم دور الدفاع عن الترحيل والتقاضي يتضمن الدفاع عن الترحيل والتقاضي بشأنه استراتيجيات قانونية تهدف إلى منع أو تأخير ترحيل شخص من الولايات المتحدة. ويمكن أن تتخذ هذه الدفاعات أشكالًا مختلفة، بما في ذلك إثبات الأهلية لبرامج إغاثة محددة، والطعن في أسباب الترحيل، والطعن في القرارات السلبية. يُعدّ محامي الهجرة الماهر أساسيًا في التعامل مع تعقيدات قانون الهجرة، وإعداد قضيتك، وتمثيلك في المحكمة. ماذا تتوقع من خدماتنا هدفنا هو أن نوفر لعملائنا راحة البال ومسارًا واضحًا للمضي قدمًا. نتولى جميع جوانب الدفاع ضد الترحيل، بدءًا من إعداد وثائق مفصلة وجمع الأدلة الحاسمة، وصولًا إلى تمثيل العملاء في محكمة الهجرة والدفاع عنهم في الاستئناف أو في حالة وجود سلطة تقديرية للادعاء العام. يعمل فريقنا بجد لضمان إطلاعكم التام على كل خطوة، والإجابة على أسئلتكم وتقديم التوجيه اللازم لتخفيف ضغوط عملية الترحيل. لماذا تختار KA Immigration Law؟ عند مواجهة احتمال الترحيل، من الضروري وجود محامٍ ماهر إلى جانبك، ملتزم بحماية حقوقك. في مكتب KA لقانون الهجرة، نقوم بما يلي: جلب سنوات من الخبرة المتخصصة في الدفاع عن الترحيل والتقاضي تقديم نهج شخصي لتلبية احتياجاتك الفريدة ابق على اطلاع بأحدث تحديثات قانون الهجرة لتوفير الاستراتيجيات الأكثر فعالية توفير الدعم الرحيم طوال العملية بأكملها

Expert consultations with KA Immigration Law. Schedule an appointment with one of our highly experienced immigration law attorneys. تحديد موعد معنا: First Name Last Name Email Phone Message Send شكرا لتقديمك! بتقديمك رقم هاتفك، فإنك توافق على استلام رسائل نصية قصيرة من مكتب كاتسيفاليس وأندرسون للمحاماة بخصوص قضيتك. لا نرسل رسائل نصية غير مرغوب فيها، ولا نستخدم الرسائل النصية لأغراض تسويقية. الرسائل النصية الوحيدة التي ستصلك ستكون ردًا مباشرًا على طلبك لاستلام رسالة نصية، أو للتواصل معك بخصوص قضيتك، أو لتأكيد موعد. يرتبط عدد مرات تلقي هذه الرسائل مباشرةً بعدد طلباتك للتواصل عبر الرسائل النصية، وبالتالي سيختلف. قد تُطبق رسوم الرسائل والبيانات. يُرجى الرد بـ "إيقاف" لإلغاء الاشتراك في أي وقت. يُرجى الرد بـ "مساعدة" للحصول على المساعدة. اقرأ سياسة الخصوصية الخاصة بنا .

Fiancé(e) Visas (K-1) The K-1 fiancé(e) visa allows a U.S. citizen to bring their foreign national fiancé(e) to the United States for the purpose of marriage. This visa is intended for couples who are not yet married but plan to marry in the United States and then apply for lawful permanent residence. The K-1 process is distinct from family-based immigrant visas and has its own eligibility rules, procedural steps, and timing considerations. Understanding how the process works, and how it differs from spousal visas, is critical to avoiding delays and complications. What Is a K-1 Fiancé(e) Visa A K-1 visa is a nonimmigrant visa that permits a foreign national fiancé(e) of a U.S. citizen to enter the United States for a limited period in order to marry the U.S. citizen petitioner. Once the couple marries, the foreign national may apply for a green card through adjustment of status. The K-1 visa does not provide permanent residence by itself. Lawful permanent residence is obtained only after marriage and approval of the subsequent green card application. Who Can File and Who Can Benefit Petitioner Only a U.S. citizen may file a K-1 fiancé(e) petition. Lawful permanent residents are not eligible to sponsor a fiancé(e) for a K-1 visa. Beneficiary The beneficiary must be the U.S. citizen’s fiancé(e) and must be legally free to marry. Both parties must intend to marry each other within 90 days of the beneficiary’s entry into the United States. Basic Eligibility Requirements To qualify for a K-1 fiancé(e) visa, the following must generally be established: The petitioner is a U.S. citizen Both parties are legally free to marry The couple intends to marry within 90 days of entry The couple has met in person at least once within the two years before filing, unless a narrow exception applies The relationship is bona fide and not entered into for immigration purposes Each of these elements must be supported by documentation, and failure to properly establish eligibility can result in denial or prolonged processing. How the K-1 Process Works Step 1: Filing the I-129F Petition The process begins when the U.S. citizen files Form I-129F, Petition for Alien Fiancé(e) with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. This petition is used to establish the qualifying relationship and eligibility for the K-1 visa. Official USCIS guidance: https://www.uscis.gov/i-129f Step 2: Consular Processing Abroad After USCIS approves the I-129F, the case is forwarded to the U.S. Department of State for consular processing. The beneficiary attends a visa interview at a U.S. consulate abroad. If approved, the K-1 visa is issued for entry to the United States. Step 3: Entry and Marriage in the United States Once admitted to the U.S. on a K-1 visa, the couple must marry within 90 days. The K-1 status cannot be extended, and marriage to the original petitioner is required. Step 4: Adjustment of Status After Marriage After marriage, the foreign national applies for a green card by filing an application for adjustment of status with USCIS. This is a separate process that includes additional forms, evidence, and typically an interview. K-1 Visas vs. Spousal Visas Choosing between a K-1 fiancé(e) visa and a spousal visa is a strategic decision. A K-1 visa allows the couple to marry in the United States, but it involves two major immigration processes: the K-1 visa itself and the later green card application. By contrast, spousal immigrant visas involve marriage first and then a single immigrant visa process through consular processing. Timing, location, prior immigration history, and personal circumstances all affect which option is more appropriate. Important Government Resources I-129F, Petition for Alien Fiancé(e) (USCIS) https://www.uscis.gov/i-129f Fiancé(e) Visas Overview (Department of State) https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/immigrate/family-immigration/nonimmigrant-visa-for-a-fiance-k-1.html Adjustment of Status After K-1 Entry (USCIS) https://www.uscis.gov/green-card/green-card-processes-and-procedures/adjustment-of-status Common Questions About Fiancé(e) Visas Does a K-1 visa lead directly to a green card? No. A K-1 visa allows entry for the purpose of marriage. A green card is only available after the marriage takes place and the adjustment of status application is approved. Can the K-1 beneficiary work after entering the U.S.? Work authorization is not automatic. Separate applications must be filed, and timing can vary depending on the stage of the process. What happens if the couple does not marry within 90 days? If the marriage does not occur within 90 days, the K-1 status expires and the beneficiary is expected to depart the United States. There is no extension of K-1 status. Can a K-1 beneficiary travel internationally after entering the U.S.? International travel is restricted until proper authorization is granted. Traveling without authorization can result in abandonment of the green card application. Are K-1 cases interviewed? Yes. K-1 visas require a consular interview, and the subsequent green card application typically involves a USCIS interview after marriage.

Katsivalis & Anderson Law is an immigration law firm providing services in family, employment, deportation defense, and humanitarian immigration matters. خدمات اتصال مثل ما ترى؟ تواصل معنا لمعرفة المزيد. العائلات والأفراد وهذا هو جوهر الهجرة: مساعدة الأفراد على تكوين أسرهم، ولم شمل أحبائهم، والمساعدة في تحقيق الأهداف. يمكننا المساعدة في إنشاء قصة الهجرة الخاصة بك. الترحيل والتقاضي إذا كنت تعرف شركتنا، فأنت تعلم أننا رواد في قضايا الدفاع والتقاضي. سواء كان الأمر يتعلق بالدفاع عن نفسك من الإزالة أو إجبار الحكومة على الفصل في قضية ما، يمكننا إرشادك. معلومات عنا ما هي قصة هجرتك؟ نحن محامو الهجرة. وهذا يعني أننا ننشئ أسرًا، ونبني أعمالًا تجارية، ونجمع شمل أحبائنا، وننقذ الأرواح، كل ذلك باستخدام القانون. نحن نؤمن أنه لا يوجد شيء اسمه شخص غير قانوني، ونؤمن أن الجميع يستحق الاحترام بموجب القانون، ونؤمن أنه لا توجد طريقة واحدة لتحقيق هدف الهجرة، فكل رحلة، وكل قصة لها قيمة وجميلة. مسائل التوظيف نقدم الاستشارات لأصحاب العمل في جميع المسائل المتعلقة بالهجرة للشركات والأفراد. نتقدم بطلبات الحصول على تأشيرات مثل H-1B، L-1A/L-1B، E-1/E-2، O-1، NIW، وJ. كما نساعد في التقدم بطلبات الحصول على البطاقة الخضراء من خلال التوظيف في حالات PERM وEB-1. بالإضافة إلى هذه الأمور، يمكننا تقديم خدمات تتعلق بالامتثال لنموذج I-9، ومزايا التوظيف العالمية، ومسائل قانون التوظيف العالمي. إنساني إن تعاطفنا لا يعرف حدودًا في رغبتنا في مساعدة الأفراد في قضايا الهجرة الخاصة بهم من حيث صلتها باللجوء، أو VAWA، أو تأشيرات الاتجار، أو شؤون المهاجرين الخاصة بالأحداث. نحن على دراية بالصدمات ومدربين. Want to learn more? First Name Last Name Email Submit Your Information Thanks for submitting!