Applying for a visa, naturalization, or any of the many other services provided by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services? Ever wondered if there was an easier, faster way to get this whole thing over with and get on with your life? Well, you’re not alone.
The immigration process is long and tiring. To increase your odds of success and avoid legal trouble, follow these tips for a smoother immigration application.
Prepare for delays
No matter which process you’re about to undergo, don’t be surprised if your application experiences delays. Delays don’t automatically mean you’ll be denied, however—they’re part and parcel of working with US Citizenship and Immigration Services.
Whatever you do, don’t wait until the last minute. Make plans for a worst-case scenario, which could mean delays of months or possibly years.
Don’t commit any crimes
This should go without saying, but committing any sort of crime could severely hurt your chances—that’s especially true for serious crimes like assault, fraud, theft, or sex crimes, which could put you on the fast track for deportation.
If you are accused of a crime, get help from an attorney immediately.
If contacted by an ICE officer, stay calm
You don’t need to live in fear of ICE. If ICE does get in contact with you or approach you, never attempt to flee or become argumentative. Give honest, accurate information to stay out of hot water and reduce the odds that you’ll have other issues with ICE in the future.
Keep copies of ALL paperwork
Lost paperwork could cause you a massive setback, and the only way to ensure that doesn’t happen is to keep multiple copies of all your important documents.
If USCIS misplaces an application or a document, the burden to correct the issue falls on you, the applicant. Keeping copies is insurance against claims that you failed to submit required paperwork or failed to meet certain submission deadlines.
Work closely with your attorney
Whether you’re facing deportation or simply trying to make the immigration process go a little faster, it’s important to work with an experienced attorney to weigh your options and make the best decision possible.
Immigration attorneys know the ins and outs of the immigration system, helping you save time and money while giving you the peace of mind that your application is in the best hands.