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Key Questions to Obtain a Green Card Through Marriage

Obtaining permanent residency through marriage is a path filled with patience and attention to detail. The process may seem intimidating, but Being prepared for the questions you might face will give you confidence and peace of mind. Immigration authorities will want to ensure your marriage is genuine, so during the interviews, they will likely ask you a series of detailed questions about your relationship and life together. Below are some of the most common questions you should anticipate when preparing your application.

  1. Is marriage genuine?
    This is the foundation of the entire process. The authorities want to ensure that your marriage isn't just for convenience or to obtain immigration benefits. You'll need to demonstrate a genuine loving relationship and mutual commitment.
  2. How did they meet?
    The details about how and when the relationship began are crucial. Be prepared to tell the story of how they met, from the place to the context of their first encounter.
  3. When did they decide to get married?
    Immigration officials will want to know how the relationship evolved leading up to marriage. It's helpful to share important dates and key moments that led to the decision to get married.
  4. How did they celebrate their wedding?
    It's not just the wedding date that matters, but also how they celebrated. Details about the ceremony, the guests, and the reception can be helpful in demonstrating the authenticity of the relationship.
  5. Do they live together? Where is their shared residence?
    It's essential that you can demonstrate you have a life together, which includes sharing a home. You'll likely be asked about your address and daily routine at home.
  6. Do you have proof of living together (rental agreements, mortgages, joint bills)?
    Proof of shared residence is crucial in the process. Make sure you have documents showing that you are both registered at the same address, such as rental agreements, mortgages, or joint utility bills.
  7. What is their daily life like? What activities do they do together?
    Besides sharing a home, they'll also want to know about how they interact in their daily lives. Talking about activities they enjoy doing together can help provide a more complete picture of their relationship.
  8. Do they have a joint bank account? How do they manage their finances?
    Sharing financial responsibilities is an indicator of a strong relationship. Authorities might ask if you have a joint bank account or how you manage your finances in general.
  9. Do they know each other's families and friends?
    A genuine relationship involves integration with the partner's loved ones. Questions about whether they know each other's families and friends, and whether they have attended family events together, are common.
  10. Do they have long-term plans?
    Talking about the future is a way to demonstrate that the marriage is genuine. Questions such as whether they plan to have children, buy a house, or how they envision their life together in the long term are key in the interview.
  11. How do they handle cultural or linguistic differences?
    If they come from different cultures or speak different languages, they'll likely ask you how you've handled these differences. Explaining how you've adapted and communicated can be important to the process.
  12. What was their relationship like before marriage?
    Officials may inquire about the relationship before the marriage: how and when it began, what their courtship was like, and whether they had any breakups or separations. These details help verify the authenticity of the relationship.


While the process of obtaining a Green Card through marriage may seem overwhelming, being prepared for these questions will help you feel more confident and demonstrate the genuineness of your relationship. Remember that transparency and details about your life together will be key to success in this process.

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Family Petition Lies You Should Know

When it comes to immigration to the United States, Family petitioning is one of the most common ways to obtain a Green Card. However, there are many myths surrounding this process. Here we debunk some of the main misconceptions about family petitions that you should know to avoid misunderstandings and surprises.

  1. A family petition guarantees a Green Card ❌
    This is a fairly common misconception. Approval of a family petition (Form I-130) does not automatically guarantee a Green Card. While the I-130 is the first step, the entire process can take several months or even years, depending on the visa category and the applicant's country of origin. In some cases, people must wait several years before they can move on to the next step, which is applying for permanent residency.
  2. US citizens can sponsor any family member ❌
    Contrary to popular belief, it is not possible to sponsor all family members. U.S. citizens can only sponsor immediate family members such as spouses, children, siblings, and parents. Other relatives, such as grandparents, grandchildren, in-laws, nephews, nieces, uncles, or cousins, are not eligible for this type of petition.
  3. Filing a family petition allows you to work immediately ❌
    This is another myth that can cause confusion. Filing a family petition does not automatically grant you the right to work in the United States. To work legally, the petitioner must file Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. Without this authorization, it is not possible to work legally, even if the family petition is approved.
  4. You just need to submit the request and wait until your family member receives the Green Card ❌
    The family-based petition process is not limited to filing Form I-130 and waiting patiently. There are several additional steps along the way. You will likely be asked for additional documentation, you will need to attend interviews, and it is essential to stay on top of any notifications sent by USCIS. Failing to pay attention to these details can delay the process and even result in the denial of your petition.

A family-based petition is an important path to obtaining residency in the United States, but it's crucial to understand the process thoroughly and be aware of the realities behind the myths surrounding it. If you're considering filing a family-based petition, be sure to consult an immigration expert for proper guidance and to avoid falling into these misconceptions.

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The secret to staying longer in the United States: Extend your tourist visa

Are you enjoying your time in the United States and wish you could stay a little longer? I have good news! It's possible to extend your authorized stay with a tourist visa. Here's how to do it, and if you're planning a future visit, this information will also be very useful.

To apply for a Visa Extension, you will need to meet certain requirements and prepare the necessary documentation. Take note of what you need:

  • Valid passport: Make sure your passport does not expire during the time you plan to stay.
  • Form I-94: This is your record of entries into and exits from the U.S. You must submit a copy.
  • Financial Support: Provide bank statements from the last 3 months to show you can support yourself during your extended stay.
  • Proof of Intent to Return: Demonstrate your intention to return to your country of origin. This may include academic credentials, employment contracts, property ownership documents, etc.

The right time to submit your Visa Extension application is crucial. Here are some guidelines:

  • Wait at least 90 days: Although you can request an extension at any time, it is advisable to wait at least 90 days after your arrival in the U.S. to demonstrate that you did not intend to stay longer from the beginning.
  • Don't Wait Too Long: Don't leave your application until the last minute. It's recommended that you submit your application at least 45 days before the expiration date of your authorized stay as shown on your I-94.

Mistakes You Shouldn't Make

  • Irregular Presence: Do not stay in the U.S. beyond the authorized period. Even a short amount of time in irregular presence can have serious consequences for future visa applications.
  • Trips to Nearby Countries: Do not leave the U.S. and return expecting your I-94 to be automatically renewed. This is not the standard procedure and may result in being denied entry.
  • Respect the Intent of the Visa: Use your tourist visa for tourism only. Do not work or study full-time on this visa, as violating the terms of your visa may result in deportation and a future ban on entry.
    Conclusion

Extending your tourist visa can be a simple process if you follow the rules and submit your application on time. Make sure you have all the necessary documentation and avoid common mistakes to enjoy your extended stay in the United States without worries.

If you have any further questions or need assistance with your application, please contact us via social media @asisvisa or our WhatsApp number +1 (786) 619 5937

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Divorce: How does it affect your immigration status in the United States?

If you're in the process of filing a Family Petition based on marriage in the United States and would like to know what might happen if you get divorced, here's what you need to know!

What happens if you get divorced before obtaining your Green Card?
The impact of a divorce between an immigrant and a citizen or permanent resident depends on the stage of the immigration process the marriage is in. If you divorce before obtaining permanent residency, this could have a significant impact on your immigration status and your future in the United States.

Cases and exceptions

  1. Divorce before obtaining a Green CardIf you are currently in the process of a marriage petition, but you have not yet been scheduled for an interview, and the beneficiary does not have permanent residency, your immigration process will be halted. This means you will lose eligibility to apply for a green card, which could lead to your deportation.
  2. Divorce after obtaining a Green Card If you divorce after obtaining permanent residency, the risk of deportation is lower. However, there may still be consequences for obtaining citizenship, or the waiting time for permanent residency if you are a conditional resident may increase from 3 to 5 years because you are not married.
  3. Divorce and Conditional Green CardIf you get divorced while you're on conditional residency, your immigration process will likely be affected. To avoid the consequences, you can:
  • Submit Form I-751 to USCIS to request the removal of conditional residency due to marriage.
  • Submit an exemption from the joint filing requirement.
  • To prove that the marriage was in good faith.

    Divorce and Green Card for dependents
    Divorce can affect the immigration status of other family members who depend on the same immigration process as the immigrant spouse.

    Exceptions for appealing a deportation
    Demonstrate that they entered into a marriage in good faith and it was terminated due to a cause unrelated to the immigrant spouse.
    The immigrant spouse could face extreme hardship if deported to their country of origin.
    The immigrant spouse was a victim of extreme cruelty, physical or psychological abuse by the U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident spouse.

    Need help? Contact us! +1 (786) 619 5937

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    Change of status from tourist to student approved in one month

    Let me tell you how we got this request approved without paying premium processing fees.

    Imagine you entered the United States on a tourist visa and want to stay to study. However, time is not on your side. Even so, you trust the process and embark on submitting your application just one day before your authorized tourist stay expires. It sounds very risky, right? Well, I'm not lying. I'm talking about a real case of a client we helped with their Change of Status application, and it was approved within a month.

    I'll tell you step by step what we took into account to achieve its APPROVAL, and what you should also know if you want to make a Change of Status in the United States.

    Verify that you meet the requirements:
    Before starting the process, make sure you meet all the necessary requirements.
    1. Valid passport.
    2. Have your valid legal tourist status.
    3. Have the financial means to cover the costs of your studies.
    4. Demonstrate ties to your country of origin.

    Apply to a certified school:
    You must be accepted into an educational institution certified by the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP).
    If you don't know where to look for the school, here's a link where you can find it: https://studyinthestates.dhs.gov/school-search

    Request Form I-20
    Once you are admitted, the school will send you Form I-20, Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status. Don't forget to verify that the information on the form is correct.

    Pay the SEVIS I-901 fee
    You must pay the SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) I-901 fee. I'll explain what you need to have on hand to make your payment.

    – Access to the SEVIS I-901 payment website: https://www.fmjfee.com/i901fee/index.html
    – Information from Form I-20 to complete the payment.
    – Confirmation of payment of the SEVIS fee.

    Complete and submit the form
    You must complete Form I-539, Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status. If you need assistance with this step, don't worry, AsisVisa can guide you through the entire process until we receive a response regarding your case.

    Would you like to get your status change in record time? Send us a message on WhatsApp +1 (786) 619 5937

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    Myths and truths about the EB-2 PERM Visa

    We've seen that there are many myths surrounding employer-sponsored employment visas. Today I'll debunk the most common ones. Take note!

    Myth: Only geniuses or experts in their field can qualify for the EB-2 with Labor Certification.

    TRUE: While the EB-2 requires a high level of skill or achievement, you don't need to be a genius. Professionals with advanced skills, academic degrees, or relevant work experience may also qualify.

    Myth: Employment certification automatically guarantees Green Card approval.

    TRUE: While labor certification is an important step, it does not guarantee visa approval. USCIS must still review and approve the petition, and additional issues may arise during that process.

    Myth: The EB-2 is only for highly specialized workers in technology or science.

    TRUE: While many EB-2 recipients are in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) fields, you can also apply to fields such as education, business, arts, and more, as long as you demonstrate exceptional skills or an advanced degree.

    Myth: Only large employers can sponsor EB-2.

    TRUE: Employers of any size can sponsor an employee for EB-2, as long as they meet the labor and financial requirements set by the U.S. Department of Labor.

    Do you know which degrees qualify for this type of visa? I'll tell you in the description!

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    Green Card without marriage: Learn about the EB2 NIW visa for professionals

    You no longer need a job offer or to get married in the U.S. to obtain a U.S. Green Card. If you are a professional with five years of experience, a master's degree, a PhD, or the equivalent of one of these qualifications, you can apply for an EB-2 visa for national interest purposes, which will allow you to obtain permanent residency in the United States.

    Who applies?
    To apply, you must complete one of these two steps

    To achieve an Advanced Grade, that is:
    – Have a master's degree or a higher education (PhD) or an equivalent qualification.
    – Hold a professional degree, bachelor's degree or equivalent, and more than 5 years of consecutive work experience related to your profession.

    Demonstrate exceptional skill.

    To apply at this stage, you must meet at least 3 of the following criteria:
    – Earn a salary above the average for the population in your area.
    – To be considered an authority or judge in their area of expertise.
    – Have original contributions in academic or specialized journals.
    – To belong to a select group of individuals who share the same merit in the area of performance.
    – To have held a decisive position within an organization.
    – To have published indexed academic or commercial material in their area of expertise.

    Submitting the application inside or outside the U.S. Let me explain!
    There are two ways to submit the application: through Adjustment of Status and Consular Processing.

    Status Adjustment: This procedure is done when you are inside the United States, and you have a valid status that you can maintain while you make your application.

    Costs: $715.00 USD + ($1,440.00 USD per applicant) + $300 (If it is a company with less than 25 employees) or $600 (if it has more than 25 employees) Federal Costs Status Adjustment.
    Waiting time: 8 to 12 months approximately
    Optional additional value: Premium Processing: $2,805.00 USD to have your application processed in 15 days.

    Consular Process: This procedure is performed from your country of origin.

    Costs: $715.00 USD + ($560.00 USD per applicant) + $300 (If it is a company with less than 25 employees) or $600 (if it has more than 25 employees) Federal Consular Processing Costs.
    Waiting time: 2-3 years approx.
    Optional additional value: Premium Processing: $2,805.00 USD to have your application processed in 15 days.

    If you're eligible, you can get a Green Card for you and your family. Want to learn more? Find us on social media as @asisvisa

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    Work in the U.S. with an L-1 Visa

    Interested in working in the U.S. for the same company you work for in your home country? Learn about the L-1 Visa, designed for employees with specialized skills or in executive and/or managerial roles. This visa allows the transfer of employees from a foreign company to a subsidiary, branch, or parent company in the U.S. Let's learn a little more about this visa together.

    The L-1 Visa has two subcategories:
    L-1 A, for employees in executive or managerial positions, and
    L-1 B, for employees with specialized skills and knowledge.

    Can an L visa be a path to a Green Card?

    Many people wonder if the L visa is a path to permanent residency. To understand this, it's important to note that the L visa doesn't grant residency directly, but it can serve as a bridge to meet the requirements for another visa, such as the EB-1C, which leads to a Green Card.

    A major advantage of the L-1A category is its ability to facilitate the transition to applying for permanent residence through the EB-1C. This allows the employer to bypass the standard labor certification process associated with other employment-based green cards. The EB-1C application focuses on the employee's international managerial or executive status and follows a process similar to that of the L-1A.

    In the case of the L-1B visa, the situation differs. If an employer obtains an L-1B visa for an employee, they must consider traditional Green Card sponsorship and follow the standard labor market testing process to obtain Labor Certification before proceeding to the immigrant petition stage of the process.

    How long does the L-1 Visa last and how much does it cost?

    The L-1 Visa allows a authorized stay of up to 7 years in the United States, with the possibility of extensions in increments of up to three years.

    For those who need a faster process, there is the option of premium processing, which involves a review in just 15 days, with an additional cost of $2,805.00 USD. It is important to note that this payment is not mandatory and is in addition to the standard application fee, which is $1,385.00 USD for Form I-129, plus $500.00 USD per applicant for the Anti-Fraud Payment.

    For those who are not in an urgent situation, the following is available: regular processing, which may take 6 to 8 months. In this case, the standard application fee is the same as for premium processing: $1,385.00 USD for Form I-129, plus $500.00 USD per applicant for the Anti-Fraud Payment.

    If you find this information useful, please feel free to share it!

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    O-1 Visa, your entry ticket to work in the United States

    Do you dream of working in the US but think the O-1 Visa is only for showbiz stars? It's time to change that perspective! The O-1 Visa is your passport to a professional life full of possibilities. Imagine living and working in the US indefinitely, building your future without limits. You only have to meet three or more specific criteria, and best of all, we will guide you every step of the way.

    What is the O-1 Visa?
    The O visa is designed for individuals who have outstanding achievements in the sciences, arts, education, business, or sports, or who have achieved extraordinary accomplishments in the film and television industry. These individuals have also received national or international recognition. If you are a leader in your field and ready to take your career to the next level, this is your opportunity.

    O-1 Visa Subcategories

    O- 1A: For people with extraordinary ability in the sciences, education, business, or athletics (excluding the arts, film, or television industry).

    O- 1B: For people with extraordinary ability in the arts or extraordinary achievements in the film or television industry.

    O-2: For individuals accompanying an artist or athlete under an O-1 visa to assist at a specific event or performance. To accompany an individual under an O-1A visa, the assistance provided by the O-2 visa applicant must be an integral part of the activity of the individual under the O-1A visa. .

    To accompany an individual under an O-1B visa, the assistance provided by the O-2 visa holder must be “essential” to the completion of the O-1B visa holder’s production. The O-2 worker must possess critical skills and experience with the O-1 visa holder that cannot be readily performed by a U.S. worker and are essential to the successful development of the O-1 visa holder.

    O-3: For people who are spouses or children of the person applying for the O-1 visa or the O-2 visa.

    How to become eligible for the O-1 Visa?
    There are two ways to qualify for this visa. First, you can qualify with evidence that you have won a major award, such as a Grammy, Nobel Prize, or Olympic medal. For all other applicants, extraordinary ability is demonstrated by evidence of at least three (3) of the following factors:

    1. You have participated as a judge of other professionals' work in your field on panels, in competitions, or at awards ceremonies. For example: peer reviewing articles, serving on a judging panel in a business competition, or judging a topic within your area of expertise.
    2. Material published about your work in professional publications, major trade publications, or other significant media outlets. For example: articles in the New York Times, CNN, Forbes, etc. However, you can also meet this criterion with articles in smaller media outlets.
    3. Membership in associations that require outstanding achievements from their members, as judged by international experts. Example: An entrepreneur who is part of an exclusive organization for executives.
    4. You have made significant original contributions to your field. For example, you patented something your employer is using, or you initiated a new business process that has impacted your field.
    5. You hold or have held key or critical positions within a company with a distinguished reputation.
    6. You have authored academic articles in professional journals or other major media outlets.
    7. You have earned a high salary or other significantly high compensation. For example, a director who receives a significantly higher salary than the industry average due to their experience and unique skills.
    8. Awards or recognitions for excellence in their field, recognized nationally or internationally. Example: A journalist receives the “Simón Bolívar National Journalism Prize” in Colombia.

    Benefits of the O Visa

    • There is no annual limit associated with the O-1 visa, meaning there are no restrictions on the number of visas that can be issued each year.
    • You can speed up the processing time to 15 days by paying an additional fee of $2.805 USD.
    • You can sponsor your spouse and children with the O-3 visa: Your spouse will not have work authorization, but will be able to go to school in the U.S. without needing an F-1 visa.
    • The O-1 visa allows for "dual intent," which offers the possibility of applying for permanent residence in the United States while holding an O-1 visa.

    How long is an O-1 visa valid?
    The O-1 visa is initially approved for up to three years, during which you can work in the U.S. and travel within and outside the country. After your first visa expires, you can continue to extend your status indefinitely in one-year increments.

    The O-1 visa offers an incredible opportunity for those who have achieved great merit in their fields and wish to expand their horizons in the United States. While the process may seem challenging, proper guidance can simplify it.

    Would you like guidance on your visa application process? Follow us on social media @asisvisa or message us on WhatsApp at +1 (786) 619 5937

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    Work Permit in the United States

    The process of obtaining an Employment Authorization Document (EAD), commonly known as a Work Permit, in the United States can be somewhat complex and sometimes confusing. However, understanding the requirements and steps to follow can make this process more bearable and successful.

    Who is eligible?

    To apply for a work permit in the United States, it is crucial to belong to an eligible category. These categories cover a wide range of situations, from refugees and asylees to DACA recipients or individuals with certain specific jobs. It is important to verify whether you meet the eligibility criteria before beginning the application process.

    Steps to apply for a Work Permit or EAD

    Once your eligibility is confirmed, the next step is to carefully follow the application process. Here is a list of steps to keep in mind:

    1. Read the instructions: The application form can be complicated. It is recommended that you seek legal assistance to avoid mistakes that could delay or even deny your application.
    2. Gather the required documents: This includes a copy of a government-issued ID and passport-size photos. Additionally, depending on your category, other specific documents may be required.
    3. Complete and sign Form I-765: This form is essential for applying for a Work Permit. Be sure to answer all questions accurately and completely.
    4. Pay the filing fee: The current fee is $495. It is important to attach the filing fee receipt to your application, although exemptions are available in certain cases.
    5. Make a copy of the form: Keeping a copy of your application can be useful for future reference, renewals, or in case of loss or theft of the document.
    6. Submit your form: You can choose to submit your application by mail or online, depending on your preferences and specific circumstances.
    7. Save your USCIS receipt number: This number is crucial for tracking the status of your application and receiving updates on its progress.

    Awaiting approval: Once your application is approved, you will be eligible to begin working legally. In the meantime, you can look for job opportunities, but keep in mind that you cannot start any work activity until your Work Permit is approved.

    Validity of the EAD

    It has recently been established that the Employment Authorization Document (EAD) can be valid for up to 5 years, depending on your specific immigration status. This new rule applies only to applications filed on or after September 27, 2023, and does not affect EADs issued before that date. It is important to note that other immigration statuses may have different validity periods, and USCIS may automatically extend the validity of EADs in certain cases, such as for individuals with Temporary Protected Status (TPS).

    EAD Renewal

    To renew your Employment Authorization Document (EAD), you can apply starting 180 days before the expiration date. Filing early may allow your work authorization to be extended while your application is processed. It is crucial to pay attention to deadlines and follow the instructions provided by USCIS to avoid interruptions in your ability to work legally in the United States.

    In summary, obtaining a U.S. work permit is a detailed process that requires meticulous attention to the specific requirements and steps. By carefully following the guidelines provided by USCIS and seeking appropriate assistance when needed, you can maximize your chances of obtaining this crucial document for working legally in the country.