VISA2US Blog

Immigration laws in the US began in the 1880s as people were welcomed into the country for various reasons. Within those laws is the term “public charge,” referring to someone in the care of the public. However, in 1999, the Immigration and Naturalization Service (the agency before the Department of Homeland Security) defined this term more thoroughly. In the 1999 Interim Field Guidance release, the definition of “public charge” was adapted to refer to anyone primarily dependent on public cash assistance or long-term care at the expense of the government. This standard has remained until recent rulings, and the DHS’s new “public charge” rule could affect visa and green card holders.

Obtaining your green card is crucial when you want to stay in the US permanently. In addition to complex paperwork, you’ll also need to pass an interview at a USCIS field office, US consulate, or embassy nearby. Preparing for this interview will help you feel more comfortable when you’re talking to the officer. This guide walks through what you need to know before you head to your interview.

Taking a closer look at green card interviews, looking at possible options for technological advancement and efficiency, and getting rid of redundant forms.

The move to get rid of the I-944 Declaration of Self Sufficiency comes at a time when the USCIS is changing some of its policies regarding the burden of evidence needed to judge an immigrant applicant as a public charge. The removal of this form and the re-instatement of a 1999 ruling shows how the agency is taking steps to create more efficiencies with the U.S. immigration system.

This blog covers the required documentation needed for K-1 visa holders who will be residing in the United States and plan on filing for an adjustment of status.

In this case, the process is ultimately much longer than other types of processing due to having to wait for the I-130 to be processed separately from the I-485 application and other supporting documents.

DS-5540 is used to determine if the applicant in question is likely to become a public charge when they immigrate to the United States, based on their financial situation, but also based on other categories such as educational/skills status and household size.

This guide is meant to address all of the procedural elements and technical details for green card applicant spouses who are currently living in the U.S. and married to a U.S. citizen.

The I-944 is an extensive form that needs to be attached to the overall green card application for nearly every applicant who filed an adjustment of status application after February 24th, 2020. The details of the form and its requirements are outlined below.