Best Dependent Visa Lawyers in Los Angeles

About Dependent Visa Law in Los Angeles, United States

The Dependent Visa law is a provision that grants entry to the dependents of the primary holders of various types of US visas. Such dependents may include spouses and unmarried children under the age of 21. The type of dependent visa you apply for is determined by the primary visa. For instance, dependents of H-1B visa holders should apply for an H-4 visa; for L-1 holder's dependents, an L-2 visa is needed, etc. It is important to note that the rules and regulations can vary considerably, hence proper legal guidance may be required to navigate the process.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

In some cases, applying for a dependent visa can raise complex legal issues or require extensive paperwork and deadlines to be managed. From navigating the requirements of the application to dealing with unexpected complications, having a lawyer can provide much-needed guidance and reduce stress. A lawyer can also help in understanding the specific local legal requirements, which may differ from federal laws.

Local Laws Overview

Los Angeles follows the general US federal laws governing dependent visas. However, local immigration courts or USCIS offices in Los Angeles may have specific guidelines on how the applications should be processed. Additionally, California's state-level laws don't directly impact the processing of dependent visas, but they may come into play in context of certain rights and benefits of visa holders and their dependents, like access to education and certain types of state assistance.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can a dependent visa holder work in the US?

Dependents of certain visa categories, such as L1 and E category visa holders may apply for work authorization. However, dependents of H, J, or F visa holders typically have restrictions on their ability to work. It's important to consult with an immigration attorney to understand the specific rules that apply to your situation.

2. Can children attend school on a dependent visa?

Yes, children who are in the U.S. on a dependent visa can attend school, from kindergarten to 12th grade. However, for college or university, they must change their visa status to a student visa.

3. Does the dependent visa allow entry to any state in the U.S.?

Yes, once the dependent visa is granted, it allows the holder to live in any state within the U.S.

4. How long is the dependent visa valid?

The duration of the dependent visa typically aligns with the duration of the principal visa holder's status.

5. Can the dependent visa lead to a Green Card (permanent residency)?

As a dependent visa holder, you may be eligible to adjust your status to a permanent resident if the principal visa holder is also taking steps towards getting a Green Card. However, the process and the eligibility requirements can be very complex and thus legal advice is often recommended.

Additional Resources

You can find more information from these resources: US Citizenship and Immigration Services, U.S. Department of State – Bureau of Consular Affairs, American Immigration Lawyers Association.

Next Steps

If you believe that you need legal assistance with your dependent visa process, start with compiling any relevant documents such as the primary visa holder's visa details, and your relationship proof documents. Contact a local immigration attorney, preferably one specializing in dependent visas. A qualified attorney will be able to guide you through the process, making sure you meet all deadlines, and assist with any unexpected issues that may arise.