FAQS

What's a temporary worker visa and how can I get one?

Temporary worker visas are for individuals entering the country for temporary employment. A petition must first be filed by the prospective employer at the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration services (USCIS) office. The petition must be approved in order for the individual to apply for a work visa.

When can I get a social security card?

You can apply for this at the local Social Security Administration office right after you receive employment authorization. This is very crucial in order to collect Social Security benefits and also benefit from different government services.

How can I pay my taxes if I don't have a social security number?

You can pay federal income taxes with an individual taxpayer identification number (ITIN).To find out more information on how to obtain an ITIN, visit the IRS site at www.irs.gov.

Things to consider before applying for citizenship

Becoming a citizen of United States is a privilege that should not be taken for granted. You will be able to enjoy the many benefits a citizen of this nation is enticed to. However, these rights and privileges are only received after going through the application process. Some things to consider before applying may include:

• The person must be a legal permanent resident. At least 18 years of age the person didn't make any other country a permanent home during their residency in the U.S. The resident should pass English and History test the individual must have a clean criminal record.

What's a stay of deportation?

Stay of deportation or stay removal is when the citizen faces deportation and requests temporary postponement. The first thing to consider is hiring a professional immigration lawyer to help with such a complicated process. The deportation can be postponed depending on where you are in the legal process and who is handling your case. The basic types of deportation include:

• Administrative stay of deportation: filled with a federal agency of the federal government Judicial stay of deportation: filled with a federal court Automatic stay of deportation: it goes into effect only when the foreign individual is filing an appeal.

How do marriage visas work?

There are two ways to bring your spouse or future spouse to the United States:

• Fiancé Visa (K-1): The fiancé of the citizen must first file a K-1 in order to travel to the U.S. And marry the U.S. Citizen during the first 90 days since their arrival. Once married, the fiancé must apply to become a permanent resident. Marriage Visa (K-3): This visa can help reduce the physical separation between the U.S. citizen and foreign spouse. It allows the spouse to enter the country as a non-immigrant while also waiting for the green card process to be completed.

How to apply for asylum?

The case law for asylum is always changing. Some factors should be considered before applying:

• Confinement and medical documentation are generally required Home country's Human Rights Report Witnesses' affidavits A detailed legal brief explaining or outlining the law as it pertains to the person's particular needs.

How to apply to petition a relative?

A United States resident or lawful permanent resident can help certain relatives to become permanent residents of U.S. The first step to take is to file an I-130, a form used to prove the government the individual you are filing the petition for is your relative and not just some random person. These are the most common petitions filed:

• Parents Children or step-children Spouse Fiancé.

How long does the immigration process take?

The timeline for immigration processes varies depending on the type of case. Family-based visa applications filed by U.S. citizens can take anywhere from six months to several years depending on the relationship category. Permanent residence through the Cuban Adjustment Act may take between eight months and three years. Employment-based visas are typically processed in up to 12 months, while naturalization applications usually take between 10 months and 18 months. Asylum cases can take more than five years due to court and USCIS backlogs. Because each case is different, it is important to consult with an immigration attorney for a more accurate estimate.

How much does it cost to hire an immigration attorney in Houston?

The cost of hiring an immigration attorney in Houston depends on factors such as the complexity of the case, the type of service required, and the attorney’s experience. On average, hourly rates range from 150 to 500 dollars. Initial consultations typically cost between 100 and 250 dollars. At Gallardo Law Firm, we offer a free initial consultation so you can understand your options before making any decisions.

Can an immigration attorney help if my visa was denied?

Yes. A visa denial does not necessarily mean the end of your case. An immigration attorney can review the reason for the denial, determine whether you can file a motion to reopen or reconsider, correct errors in your application, and explore alternative legal options. It is important not to reapply or take further action without professional guidance, as a proper legal strategy can significantly improve your chances of success.

Can I hire an immigration attorney if I am outside the United States or in another state?

Yes. Immigration law is federal, which means you can work with an attorney based in Houston even if you are located in another state or outside the United States. At Gallardo Law Firm, we regularly assist clients remotely and guide them through the immigration process regardless of their location.

Can an immigration attorney help stop deportation?

Yes. An immigration attorney can help defend against deportation by evaluating available legal options, preparing a strong defense, requesting bond for release, identifying forms of immigration relief, representing you in court hearings, and filing appeals when necessary. Acting quickly is critical, as early legal intervention can significantly improve the chances of stopping or delaying removal proceedings.

What are the benefits of hiring a local immigration attorney in Houston?

Hiring a local immigration attorney in Houston provides several advantages. Local attorneys are familiar with the immigration courts, judges, and procedures specific to the area. They also understand the unique challenges faced by Houston’s immigrant community and can offer guidance that is both practical and culturally informed. This local experience can make a meaningful difference in how your case is handled and presented.

How long does it take to get a green card in Houston?

The time it takes to obtain a green card depends on the type of application. Family-based green cards can take several months to several years depending on visa availability. Employment-based green cards may take around one year or longer. Adjustment of status cases processed within the United States often take between 8 months and 2 years. Processing times vary based on USCIS workload and individual case factors.

Can I work while my immigration case is pending?

In many cases, yes. Certain applicants may qualify for a work permit, also known as an Employment Authorization Document (EAD), while their immigration case is pending. Eligibility depends on the type of application you have filed. An immigration attorney can help determine whether you qualify and assist you in applying for work authorization.

What happens if my immigration application is delayed?

Delays are common in immigration cases due to high application volumes and backlogs at USCIS and immigration courts. If your case is delayed beyond normal processing times, an attorney can help by submitting inquiries, requesting updates, or taking legal action when appropriate. Monitoring your case closely is important to avoid missing deadlines or opportunities.

Do I need an immigration attorney for my case?

While you are not required to hire an immigration attorney, having legal representation can significantly improve your chances of success. Immigration law is complex, and errors or missing documents can lead to delays or denials. An experienced attorney can guide you through the process, prepare your application correctly, and represent you if complications arise.

How is bond set? How does bond posting work?

When a person is arrested by the authorities and imprisoned for being accused of committing a crime, you can request bail. Depending on the crime committed the dangerous of the individual and represents a flight risk if the judge will grant the bail. In the United States, bond is discretionary and may be denied if the Judge has, for this reason you could ask your family or friends to help provide evidence such as a copy of the legal permanent resident card, birth certificates of spouse children and parents, evidence has property in the United States, has a legal and employment even better if you can include letters of support from family or community members.

What is the purpose of bail bonds?

Bail is intended to guarantee that the accused will attend every court appearance anytime required his presence. Bail should not be seen as a form of punishment the defendant nor as a form of payment to the government.

When do I have to introduce myself to the Court?

The days must attend court shall be notified by mail. This notification is always sent to the defendant several days before the trial date. In the event that the person holds a bail agent will notify the court by mail or phone for all dates of the hearings and this will take care of ensuring that the defendant knew of trial dates.

How much is an Immigration Bond?

Paying bond for bail in the State of Florida and many other states in the Federal Courts bond costs 15% of the amount, the securities in the event of Immigration have cost up to 20% of the bail amount and costs in State Courts between 10% and 15 % depending on the amount of use and warranty risks.

What turns out to be a warranty?

The guarantee is what is given to the bail agent that may prove to be a property or other, as collateral for bail.

What used as collateral?

We can use a house as collateral, land properties, bank certificates of deposit, stocks, bonds, credit cards, boats, cars, motorcycles, expensive jewelry, among other objects of high prices.

How long it may take to be released from jail after bail?

It all depends on where the person is detained, as depending on the courts of the place, may take an hour of being in prison in the city or county to 8 hours or more. In federal officials could take 2 to 4 hours and 7 hours of immigration.

Can the bond be Lost?

In the event that the defendant fails and does not appear before the judge in acts such as roots, trial, judgment or other pre-sentencing without having an excuse to support its offer, then the judge may, before an open court declare the loss of the bond in full.

Can I recover money from the bond?

On completion of the process of Immigration, the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) will return the amount of the bail money to the person who made the payment. Should be clear that the bail will be refunded only if you have appeared at all court hearings and complied with all orders of the court case manager or the department of Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

What other options exist for release when a person is incarcerated?

There are today five options to get out of jail, it may be through a bail bondsman, cash bond, property bond, parole, or an electronic monitor. The judicial bail involves a compensation and the Court. They usually give such bond as if the defendant does not appear before the court. At some point, the bond agent will act immediately to locate, apprehend, and bring him to court. The bondsman is the person who wants the detainees release and for that reason he/she delivers the total amount of bail to where the person is detained. The cash bond is when the person who wants the detainees release delivers the total amount of bail to where the person is detained. The security property is used only when you need local real estate with the courts as security for the defendants release. This takes 7 to 15 days as they require acceptance of the judge, evaluate the property, a relationship with sales, and acceptance of the clerk of the court. Many states do not have this kind of bond. Parole is another method of release, and is granted to prisoners who have been long in a community, present legal and stable work, have the best family relationships, and no flight risk appears. This release process is led by a county agency or a local law enforcement agency. Before the release of the detainee, a depth analysis is done and delivered to the court. Often this type of release is given to those who are accused for the first time or for charges that are not violent. The electronic monitor is taken mostly as a condition of release and is also established a normal bond. This program is implemented by the Agency serviceids and the local police agency. It turns like a bracelet that is placed on the ankle and frames a round area of a base point, which the defendant cannot get away of and if so an alarm starts to sound .

What is American citizenship status definition?

Citizenship is the legal term granted by the United States of America to people in the community, allowing them to have equal rights and freedom in society where they have been residing.

Can my children acquiring citizenship if I am an American citizen? What would be the American citizenship requirements?

If your children are old enough have to go through the same application process for citizenship parents. However, if your children are under 18 year old, he can acquire automatic citizenship as dependent parents. They must also meet other American citizenship requirements, including permanent residence (Green Card) within the territory. Also children must live permanently with parents who have child custody and have been legally naturalized.