TPS for Venezuelans: Everything you need to know

If you are Venezuelan and are in the United States without permanent immigration status, Temporary Protected Status (TPS) may be an option for you. This program gives you the opportunity to legally reside and work in the US for as long as your country is designated for this benefit.

Here we provide you with a complete guide on what you need to know about TPS.

What is TPS?
Temporary Protected Status (TPS) is a status granted by the United States government that allows foreign nationals to live and work legally in the country. This status is valid for 18 months and allows you to apply for a work permit and a Social Security number. Furthermore, you can renew it for as long as Venezuela remains designated as a recipient of this benefit.

When can I apply for TPS?
The timing for applying for TPS depends on whether you have had this status previously or if this is your first time applying.

If you already had TPS according to the March 9, 2021 announcement for Venezuelans, you can apply during the 60-day period between January 10, 2024 and March 10, 2024.

If this is your first time applying based on the announcement of October 3, 2023 (Venezuela 2023), you can do so during the 18-month period from October 3, 2023 to April 2, 2025.

How long will TPS be valid for if I am approved?
The validity period of TPS depends on when you submit your application.

If you renew under Venezuela 2021, TPS will be valid until September 10, 2025.

If you apply under Venezuela 2023, TPS will be valid until April 2, 2025.

It's important to note that the government may extend TPS for Venezuela. If you are an approved beneficiary during the current registration periods, you will need to renew your registration during the next available period.

What happens when my current work permit expires?
If you are a beneficiary of TPS Venezuela 2021 and your current work permit is about to expire, the Department of Homeland Security is automatically extending your permit until March 10, 2025. However, to maintain your TPS and your authorization to work, you must renew your TPS Venezuela 2021.

What makes you ineligible for TPS?
Not to reside continuously in the U.S. since March 8, 2021 (for Venezuela 2021) or since July 31, 2023 (for Venezuela 2023).

Not having been convicted of any serious crime or multiple misdemeanors in the U.S.
If you have had any run-ins with the law, it is important to obtain a Certificate of Disposition for each case and consult with an immigration law expert before applying for TPS.

Temporary Protected Status (TPS) offers an invaluable opportunity for Venezuelans in the United States without permanent immigration status. However, understanding the requirements and procedures is essential to effectively access this benefit. If you meet the established criteria, TPS can provide the stability and security you need at a crucial time in your life.

Types of Political Asylum in the US: How to Apply Correctly?

If you are or have faced persecution or serious threats in your country of origin due to your race, religion, nationality, membership in a particular social group or for having different political opinions, the Political Asylum process in the United States becomes a resource invaluable legal for you.

In the United States, there are two main procedures for applying for asylum: the affirmative process and the defensive process.

Affirmative Asylum:

This type of asylum is for people who are not facing removal or deportation proceedings. To qualify, you must have entered the U.S. with valid status or not have been inspected at the border. Additionally, you must file your asylum claim within one year of your last arrival in the country.

Defensive Asylum:

On the other hand, defensive asylum is requested when you are under removal or deportation proceedings. This means you are in removal proceedings before the Immigration Court with the Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR).

When is it classified as defensive asylum?

There are two main situations:

If you are referred by USCIS to an immigration judge after your affirmative asylum application has been determined to be ineligible.
If you have been arrested at a U.S. port of entry without proper legal documentation, in violation of your immigration status, or if you have been arrested by CBP attempting to enter the U.S. without proper documentation and are in deportation proceedings.

Credible Fear:

When an individual faces expedited removal proceedings and declares their intention to seek asylum due to a fear of persecution, torture, or return to their country, they will be referred to USCIS for a credible fear assessment. In this assessment, an officer will conduct an interview to determine whether the applicant truly faces a credible fear of persecution or torture.

If a credible fear is determined, USCIS may withhold the asylum application to consider the applicant's eligibility for withholding of removal and protection under the Convention Against Torture (CAT) in a second interview, known as an asylum merits interview. Otherwise, USCIS may issue a Notice to Appear before an immigration judge for consideration of the asylum case, withholding of removal, and CAT protection claims.

In short, the political asylum process in the United States is a vital legal resource for those facing persecution or serious threats in their home countries. We hope this information is helpful in your immigration process. For more content on this and related topics, follow us on Instagram @asisvisa.

Green Card through Marriage in the United States

If you're considering marrying a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, you may have considered the path to the coveted Green Card. This is one of the most common ways to obtain permanent residency in the United States and, eventually, citizenship. But how exactly does this process work? Is it legal to marry for the sole purpose of obtaining immigration benefits? Here's everything you need to know to make an informed decision.

Marriage in Good Faith: The First Crucial Step

Before even considering applying for a Green Card through marriage, you must be certain that your union is genuine and in good faith. This means your marriage must be real and cannot be solely for immigration purposes. Marrying for the sole purpose of obtaining a Green Card is considered fraud and can have serious legal consequences, including deportation from the United States. It is crucial to be able to demonstrate that your relationship is authentic and based on love and mutual commitment.

Benefits of the Green Card

The Green Card provides a number of significant benefits, including the ability to travel outside the country, work anywhere you want within the United States, and even apply for U.S. citizenship after a certain period of time.

Conditional Green Card

If you have been married for less than two years when you receive your Green Card through marriage, it will be "conditional." This means you can maintain your permanent resident status as long as you remain married to your spouse and your circumstances do not change in a way that makes you ineligible. It's important to note that you cannot renew a conditional Green Card based on marriage, but you can petition the government to remove these conditions within 90 days before your conditional Green Card expires. If you do not, you will no longer be considered a lawful permanent resident and could face deportation.

Requirements to Apply

Some of the fundamental requirements for applying for a Green Card through marriage include:

  • The petitioner must be a U.S. citizen and reside in the United States.
  • Marriage must be in good faith and genuine.
  • The couple must be legally married, either in the United States or abroad.
    The petitioner must have sufficient financial means to support the beneficiary spouse.
    It's important to keep in mind that these are just some of the basic requirements and that the process can vary depending on individual circumstances. It's advisable to seek legal advice or consult with an immigration expert for specific guidance on your situation.

Obtaining a Green Card through marriage can be a complex but rewarding process for those seeking permanent residency in the United States. However, it is crucial that the marriage be genuine and based on love and mutual commitment, and not simply a means to obtain immigration benefits.

Step-by-Step Guide for the Family Petition

Transform the Dream of Permanent Residency into Reality

Imagine having your loved ones close by, sharing life in the United States with you. Would you like to make this dream a reality? All you need to do is file a Family Petition, and this guide will walk you through each crucial step.

Step 1 – Eligibility:

Verifying eligibility is the first crucial step. If you are a U.S. citizen, you can petition for your spouse, unmarried children under 21, parents, and siblings. For permanent residents, the petition can be filed for spouses and unmarried children under 21.

Step 2 – Inside or Outside the U.S.:

Depending on the location of the beneficiary family member, the process may vary. If they are within the United States, they can adjust their status; if they are outside, they will need to complete a consular process.

Step 3 – Forms: Essential Documentation

Complete Form I-130, making sure it is properly filled out and signed. For adjustment of status, Form I-485 is essential. For consular processing, Form DS-160 is required.

Step 4 – Evidence:

Submit documents that support the family relationship, such as birth certificates, marriage certificates, and, for permanent residents, a copy of the Green Card. Add financial evidence such as tax returns, bank statements, and employment letters.

Step 5 – Submit the Petition:

The citizen or legal permanent resident must submit the completed forms along with all required evidence.

Step 6 – Assessment and Interview:

Prepare for a possible interview, where the information you provided will be reviewed and your eligibility verified. This step will determine whether your case is approved or denied.

Step 7 – Obtaining the Green Card: A New Chapter in Your Life

If your petition is approved, an immigrant visa will be issued. Once in the U.S., the beneficiary can obtain a Green Card, marking the beginning of their new life. After five years, they will be eligible to apply for U.S. citizenship.

With this step-by-step guide, you're ready to embark on the Family Petition process and reunite with your loved ones in the United States. With perseverance and diligence, you can transform that cherished dream into a lifelong reality. Onward to a future filled with family reunions in the USA!

Green Card for Professionals: An Opportunity Without Marriage

Discover the EB-2 NIW Visa and Obtain Your Permanent Residency

In the past, obtaining a Green Card in the United States was largely tied to marriage to a U.S. citizen. However, today, if you are a professional with a master's degree or five years of experience in your field, there is an option specifically designed for you: the EB-2 National Interest Worker (NIW) visa. In this blog, we will explore the benefits of this visa and the process for obtaining your Permanent Residency.

You Don't Need a Sponsor: A Significant Change in the Process

Unlike most employment-based visas, the EB-2 NIW visa does not require a job offer from a U.S. employer or sponsor. This change significantly simplifies the process and gives professionals more freedom to pursue opportunities in their field.

Essential Requirements to Qualify

To be eligible, you must demonstrate that you are a specialized professional or possess exceptional skills in the sciences, arts, or business. Furthermore, it is crucial to demonstrate how your project will contribute to American society. Tangible evidence is required, such as letters of recommendation from experts in your field, publications, patents, or media coverage related to your work.

Step-by-Step Process: From Initial Assessment to Case Award

  1. Initial Assessment: An initial evaluation of your professional profile is carried out to determine your eligibility.
  2. Deposit and Contract Signing: Once viability is confirmed, you proceed to make a deposit and sign the contract with AsisVisa, the agency specializing in immigration advice.
  3. Professional Adjustment: We work on professional adjustment, preparing your profile to meet the requirements of the EB-2 NIW visa.
  4. Document Reception and Application Preparation: The necessary documents are collected and the application is prepared.
  5. Application Review and Submission: A thorough review of the application is carried out before it is submitted.

Processing Time: Speed and Efficiency

The EB-2 NIW visa, because it doesn't require the standard labor certification process, typically has faster processing times compared to other employment-based visas. Furthermore, there's the option to expedite the process even further with the Premium processing service, which guarantees case adjudication in as little as 15 days.

If you're an experienced professional or possess exceptional skills, the EB-2 NIW visa offers a unique opportunity to obtain permanent residency in the United States without being married. Start your application today, discover the possibilities that await you, and take the first step toward your future in the United States. Your Green Card is waiting for you!

Change of Status in the USA: Transform Your Career Path

If your plans have taken an unexpected turn and you now dream of something different in the USA, you can easily change course! Imagine this: you entered as an au pair, but now you want to begin your academic studies in the USA. What to do? Applying for a change of status is the key!

Before embarking on this exciting journey, take some time to research the available options and select the status that best aligns with your goals and dreams. If you'd like to complete the process at your own pace, in Spanish, and with expert guidance, I'll explain everything!

Gather all the necessary documents. This is key to the success of your application. You must have entered the USA legally, have a valid visa for the entire process, demonstrate the financial capacity to cover housing and study costs, and show ties to your country of origin.

The change of status process has an average processing time of 8 to 14 months, during which time you can remain in the United States. It is crucial to consider the length of your authorized stay before beginning the process. Planning ahead will allow you to manage your time effectively and increase your chances of success.

Remember to leave nothing to chance; it is imperative to carefully review every aspect of the status change you are about to make. Make sure you have all the necessary documents in order and keep in mind your authorized period of stay. Meticulous attention to these details will make all the difference in the success of your process.

I hope this guide is helpful and motivates you to embark on your journey to change your status. Good luck on this exciting adventure!

Visa Extension in the United States: A Complete Guide to a Successful Process

Welcome, travelers and adventurers! In the fascinating landscape of the United States, many foreign visitors with tourist visas find themselves with the opportunity to extend their legal stay. But, as with any great story, there are important details you shouldn't overlook. Join me as we explore the complete guide to a successful visa extension in the USA!

When to Apply for a Visa Extension?

The key date for requesting a visa extension is not the visa expiration date, but the date shown on your I-94 form. We suggest waiting at least three months in the United States before submitting your request. Avoid waiting too long; it is recommended to do so at least 45 days before your authorized stay expires.

You must meet certain requirements:

  • Having entered the U.S. with a non-immigrant visa.
  • Maintain a record free of criminal records or violations of non-immigrant status.
  • Make sure your stay has not expired (this is crucial and you should pay special attention to the date indicated on your I-94 Card, not the visa expiration date).

Fee Payable for Visa Extension

The current cost of a visa extension is 1,437 USD, although these fees may vary. Therefore, it is vital to check the most up-to-date information on the official USCIS website.

How many times can you request an extension?

There is no maximum number of extension requests, but the total term limit is 1 year. It is not possible to chain extensions beyond this limit.

Mistakes to Avoid

  1. Accumulating irregular presence, even for just a few days, can have significant consequences.
  2. Traveling to nearby countries does not automatically renew the I-94 Card.
    Respect the purpose of the visa: remember that it is only for tourism, not for working or studying full-time.
    With this guide, you'll be ready to navigate the US visa extension process with confidence and success! Remember, every detail counts on this incredible journey. Good luck on your visa extension and exploration in the United States!

Keys to a successful immigration process in the United States

The decision to begin the immigration process to the United States is exciting, but it can also be overwhelming due to the complexity of the procedures and legal requirements. At AsisVisa, we understand the importance of providing you with the right tools to ensure a successful and smooth experience. Here are some key points to guarantee a successful immigration process:

  1. Identification of the Appropriate Program or Visa:
    The variety of programs and visas available can be confusing at first. On our social media and website, you'll find valuable information to help you identify the program or visa that's right for you. If you still have questions, contact us! We're here to schedule a free call or video call and provide you with personalized guidance.
  2. Personalized Assistance with AsisVisa:
    At AsisVisa, we understand that every case is unique. That's why we offer personalized support to address all your questions and concerns. Our commitment goes beyond simply providing information; we also offer support throughout the entire immigration process until your application is approved.
  3. Use Our App to Make the Process Easier:
    We've developed an app that lets you prepare your immigration forms securely, quickly, and effectively, all in Spanish. If you have any questions during the process, don't hesitate to contact us; we're here to help. With AsisVisa, you significantly increase your chances of success, as we offer three document reviews before submitting your application, translation of up to three documents, declaration drafting, and ongoing support.
  4. Prior Research and Knowledge of the Laws:
    Before taking the first step, we recommend you conduct thorough research on U.S. immigration laws and requirements related to the visa or program you're interested in. This information will provide you with a solid foundation for scheduling a personalized consultation with us.
  5. Financial Planning:
    Financial planning is key. Establish a savings plan based on the program or visa you want. Consider processing fees, federal fees, and prepare for potential emergencies. This will ensure you have the necessary resources to complete your immigration process smoothly and without financial setbacks.
  6. Reliable Legal Advice:
    Seek reliable legal advice. Find specialists who can guide you transparently and clearly. Make sure you understand your legal rights and responsibilities so you can make informed decisions throughout the process.

At AsisVisa, we are committed to making your dream of migrating to the United States a successful reality. Contact us and let us guide you on this exciting journey toward a new horizon!

Conquer the US Job Market in 2024: Key Tips for Your Professional Success!

Working in the United States could be the next big step in your career, and we're here to help you make it happen! Here are valuable tips to guide you in your job search and provide crucial information about temporary and permanent work options in this fascinating country.

Optimize your resume and LinkedIn profile:

A well-structured resume and a strong LinkedIn profile are essential for standing out in the competitive U.S. job market. Be sure to highlight relevant achievements and skills, and incorporate industry keywords to improve your visibility in candidate tracking systems. On LinkedIn, actively participate, join relevant groups, and connect with professionals to strengthen your online presence.

Research and Select Companies:

Before submitting applications, thoroughly research the companies you're interested in. Understand their culture, values, and job requirements. Use job search websites like Indeed, LinkedIn, Glassdoor, and Monster to identify opportunities at these companies. Tailor each application by highlighting how your skills and experience align with each employer's specific needs.

Expand your network:

Attend networking events, job fairs, and industry conferences to meet professionals and recruiters. Join professional groups on LinkedIn and participate in relevant conversations. Don't underestimate the power of personal connections: ask friends, family, and former colleagues to inform you about job opportunities or recommend you to their networks.

Temporary work in the USA:

Temporary work is a common way to enter the U.S. job market. An employer can file an application on your behalf with USCIS. Familiarize yourself with the E-1, E-2, L-1A, L-1B, O-1, and O-2 visa categories, depending on your skills and circumstances.

Permanent work in the USA:

If you're looking for a long-term job option, there are approximately 140,000 immigrant visas available each fiscal year. Learn about the EB-1, EB-2, and EB-3 categories:

EB-1: For individuals with extraordinary abilities in various areas. No job certification is required.

EB-2: For professionals with postgraduate degrees or exceptional skills in the arts, sciences, or business. Labor certification is required unless a national interest waiver is obtained.

EB-3: For professionals, skilled workers, and others. Labor certification is required.

Get ready to achieve your career goals in the United States in 2024! Follow these tips, stay informed about opportunities and regulations, and make your dream of working in the U.S. a reality!

Family Petition: Which relatives can you petition for in the United States?

Have you ever wondered who you can petition to bring your loved ones to live with you in the United States? Don't worry, we're here to answer those questions and guide you through the different family petition options!

First you need to understand this:

American CitizensPermanent Residents
American citizens have visas UNLIMITED for their immediate family members.Permanent Residents have visas LIMITED for their immediate family members.*
Immediate family members:
- Spouse.
– Civil or biological parents,
– Stepfather for those who married the biological father of the citizen before the American citizen turned 18. (Only applies to stepfathers or until the child turns 18 years old).
– Unmarried biological or civil children under 21 years of age.
Immediate family members.
– Single children under 21 years of age.
- Spouse.

NOTE: Having accumulated irregular presence makes you inadmissible for applying for Permanent Resident status.
Non-immediate relatives: (Only applies to citizens)
- Siblings.
– Married children.
*If the visa is not listed in the visa bulletin, it cannot be requested.
Adjustment of Status, which is done within the United States, cannot be requested if there is a backlog in the visa bulletin.

Now that we have that information clear, I'm going to tell you about the different family requests:

Request for Parents:
If you are a U.S. citizen and at least 21 years old, you can apply for permanent residence (Green Card) for your parents (mother or father).
Please note that permanent residents cannot make this request.

Marriage Proposal:

Both citizens and residents can apply to marry their partner.
In the case of citizens, couples will be able to adjust their status (within the USA) or go through consular processing (outside the USA) without any problem.
Meanwhile, resident couples will have to choose whether to adjust their status or go through consular processing, depending on the waiting list.

Petition for Children:
Both U.S. citizens and permanent residents can sponsor their children to live and work in the United States as permanent residents.

Remember that children of residents must be under 21 years of age.

Children's Request:
To bring your sibling to live in the USA and become a permanent resident, you must be a US citizen and over 21 years of age.

Note: Permanent Residents cannot petition for siblings to be beneficiaries of the Green Card.

Parents' Request:
If you are a U.S. citizen and at least 21 years old, you can apply for permanent residency (Green Card) for your parents.

Please note that permanent residents cannot make this request.

This is the perfect opportunity to get the family together. Ready to get started?