Best Immigration Lawyers in Chicago
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United States Immigration Legal Questions answered by Lawyers
Browse our 4 legal questions about Immigration in United States and read the lawyer answers, or ask your own questions for free.
- Changing my temporary residency card in Portugal to permanent!
- Good day! I have been living in Portugal for 4 years and next year I need to change my temporary residency to permanent one. My questions: What documents do I need? How long does it take! When is the starting of 5 years? How much does it cost? I am... Read more →
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Lawyer answer by mohammad mehdi ghanbari
Hello and greetings!Thank you for reaching out. Regarding your permanent residency application in Portugal, here are some important points: You will generally need your valid passport, proof of address in Portugal, your current residency permit, a clean criminal record (from...
Read full answer - Changing my temporary residency card in Portugal to permanent!
- Good day! I have been living in Portugal for 4 years and next year I need to change my temporary residency to permanent one. My questions: What documents do I need? How long does it take! When is the staring of 5 years? How much does it cost? I am... Read more →
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Lawyer answer by mohammad mehdi ghanbari
Hello and greetings!Thank you for reaching out. Regarding your permanent residency application in Portugal, here are some important points: You will generally need your valid passport, proof of address in Portugal, your current residency permit, a clean criminal record (from...
Read full answer - How do I get certificate or acceptance?
- US is asking for certificate of acceptance for my son born in Ulsan 13years ago for the purpose of our immigrant visa. He was not registered at the local district office at the time as we were told as non nationals, it was not mandatory. I don’t know how to... Read more →
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Lawyer answer by mohammad mehdi ghanbari
Hello, good morningTo obtain a Certificate of Acceptance for your son born in Ulsan, you will need to report the birth to the local government office (Si, Gu, Eup, or Myeon) corresponding to the place of birth. Even though the...
Read full answer
United States Immigration Legal Articles
Browse our 2 legal articles about Immigration in United States written by expert lawyers.
- H-1B Visa Outlook 2026 US: Wage Based Selection & Fees
- The US immigration system is statute-driven (mainly the Immigration and Nationality Act) and administered by USCIS, the Department of State, CBP, and the Department of Labor, each controlling different stages of the process. For March 2026 H-1B cap filings, the government is openly considering shifting from a random lottery to... Read more →
- Golden Visas: Residency by Investment in the United States
- Key Takeaways The United States immigration system is governed primarily by the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) and administered by USCIS, DOS, CBP, ICE, DOL, and EOIR. Most immigrants enter through family, employment, humanitarian protection, or investment routes, each with its own forms, fees, timelines, and eligibility rules. For investors,... Read more →
About Immigration Law in Chicago, United States
The United States, including the city of Chicago, Illinois, offers several paths for legal immigration, such as family-sponsored, employment-based, and humanitarian relief. However, U.S. immigration law is complex and it often involves various aspects such as obtaining visas, green cards, citizenship and dealing with deportation. Also, the immigration policy at the Federal level can greatly impact the local immigration situation in Chicago.
Why You May Need a Lawyer
Given the complexity and constantly changing immigration laws, hiring an immigration lawyer can be beneficial in numerous situations. These can include applying for a visa, green card, or U.S. citizenship, seeking asylum or refugee status, defending against removal (deportation), and tackling legal issues with student or work visas. Lawyers can provide proper assistance, helping to navigate through heavily bureaucratic processes and making sure all paperwork is filed correctly.
Local Laws Overview
Although immigration law is primarily federal, there are local laws in Chicago that are vital to all immigrants such as the Welcoming City Ordinance. This law aims to improve the relationship between the City's immigrant populations and the City's police department and restricts the police from engaging in immigration enforcement actions. It also limits the situations in which the police can arrest or detain someone based on their immigration status.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I apply for U.S. citizenship in Chicago?
Yes, you can apply for U.S. citizenship in Chicago, regardless of where you currently live in the United States. You can apply through a process known as naturalization, which generally requires permanent residency (Green Card), a period of continuous residency, and the ability to pass English and civics tests.
2. Can my immigration application be denied?
Yes, immigration applications can be denied, often due to issues such as errors on your application, insufficient supporting documentation, lack of eligibility, or failure to demonstrate the ability to support oneself financially in the U.S.
3. Do I need a lawyer to apply for asylum?
While it's technically possible to apply for asylum without a lawyer, it's strongly advised to have legal representation due to the complexity of asylum law and the high stakes of the application.
4. What is the Welcoming City Ordinance?
The Welcoming City Ordinance is a local law in Chicago designed to build trust between the Chicago Police Department and immigrant communities, and limit when the police can arrest or detain someone based on their immigration status.
5. What happens if I’m facing deportation?
If you are facing deportation, it is vital to seek legal help immediately. You have rights, including the right to challenge the deportation order, but the process is complex and generally requires expert legal advice.
Additional Resources
Several resources exist for immigrants seeking legal advice in Chicago. For immigration matters, United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) offers resources and updates. Locally, the Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights (ICIRR) and National Immigrant Justice Center provide assistance for immigrants. Both organizations offer legal aid, immigration policy updates, and support for immigrants in Chicago.
Next Steps
If you need legal assistance with immigration in Chicago, consider reaching out to a professional immigration lawyer. They can provide you with tailored advice for your situation. Additionally, immigrant advocacy groups, nonprofit organizations, and resources like the ICIRR can also be of help. Do not delay seeking help and remember that understanding your rights and options is key to navigating the U.S. immigration system.
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Disclaimer:
The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation.
We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this page. If you believe any information is incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will review and update it where appropriate.
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