The Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) provides a critical pathway to safety and legal status for noncitizens who have suffered abuse. At Gaertner & Torres PLLC, we understand the courage it takes to seek independence. Under VAWA, eligible individuals can apply for a Green Card (Lawful Permanent Residence) without the abuser's knowledge or consent. This process, known as a VAWA self-petition, is designed to empower survivors. Take the First Step Toward Safety: Not sure if you

Once a foreign national becomes the beneficiary of an approved immigrant petition and an immigrant visa number is available, there are generally two ways to apply for lawful permanent residence (a Green Card): Adjustment of Status (AOS) Consular Processing Both options lead to the same result— lawful permanent residence in the United States —but the process, eligibility requirements, and timelines can be very different. Understanding these differences is essential when decidi

Many foreign nationals obtain lawful permanent residence (a green card) in the United States through employment. For most applicants, the process begins with PERM labor certification, a procedure administered by the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL). This article explains how PERM works and what employers and employees should understand before starting the employment-based green card process. If you would like to evaluate whether an employment-based green card may be available f

One of the most common questions individuals ask after their Form I-130 (family-based petition) or Form I-140 (employment-based petition) is approved is: “When can I apply for my green card?” The answer depends primarily on two factors: your immigration category and whether an immigrant visa number is available. Understanding these elements is essential to determining your next step. If you would like to evaluate your immigration options after petition approval, you may begin

The H-1B is a U.S. non-immigrant visa that allows employers to hire foreign workers in specialty occupations on a temporary basis. These are positions that require specialized knowledge and typically a bachelor’s degree or higher in a related field. The visa is widely used in industries such as technology, engineering, healthcare, finance, and other highly skilled professions. If you would like to understand whether your background may qualify for an H-1B visa, you may begin

Obtaining permanent residency in the U.S. can come with an important condition for those who recently got married: a green card valid for...

The application for the DV-2025 Program began on Wednesday, October 4, 2023, and ends on Tuesday, November 7, 2023, at 12:00 p.m. EST.

What is a financial sponsor and who qualifies? Who is required to sign a Form called “Affidavit of Support” (Form I-864)? What is this Form?

What exams and vaccinations are required for a permanent resident? You should submit a completed Form I-693, the Medical Examination Report.

Learn more about the differences between "renewing" a green card (Form I-90) and filing an application to "remove conditions" (Form I-751).

Learn the meaning of Adjustment of Status and Consular Processing and how to choose which one is best for you.

The family reunification parole processes are available by invitation only to certain petitioners who filed an approved Form I-130.

USCIS is extending temporary waiver of the requirement that civil surgeons sign Form I-693 no more than 60 days before an application.