Visas for temporary stays in the U.S.
If you plan a short visit, then you are not an immigrant. That is why the temporary visas are called nonimmigrant visas. You must be careful not to overstay your visa so if you need an extension, please contact us for help.
Here are some common nonimmigrant visas. Depending on the category, you may be able to bring family members and/or support staff with you on a related visa category.
Are you here on business? You will need a B-1 visa
Are you a tourist? If you are here for a vacation or getting medical care, you will need a B-2
Are you just passing through the U.S.? C-1 may be needed.
Do you plan to study in the US? The F category is for university and language students. The M category is for vocational students.
Are you planning to work in a specialized occupation? There are several different categories depending on what you do. The most common are H-1B, H-1C, H-2A, H-3, O-1, or the P visa category.
Are you going to be an exchange worker here to learn or train? J-1 may be what you need. Another category is the Q visa which applies to programs not sponsored by the US Dept. of State.
Getting married? The K-1 fiancee visa will enable your loved one to come here to get married. Once you are married, we can help you sponsor your spouse for a green card (permanent residency).
Is your company transferring you to a position in the US? The L-1 visa enables you to stay working for your company at a U.S. location.
Are you coming to the US to go religious work? The R category may be appropriate.
Are you a victim of abuse, trafficking, or a crime? First, we are very concerned about your safety and you may need to call 911 first. We can help you with T, U and VAWA (violence against women) issues. VAWA is not just for women—men can be helped by it as well.
Did you enter the US as a minor? You might be a Dreamer and could use the DACA program.
Are you an alien facing divorce? We can consult with your divorce attorney on the immigration ramifications of divorce. We do not so you would need a separate family law attorney.
Facing deportation or removal? Our law firm does not handle these types of cases. If you have been also accussed of a crime, be sure to consult an immigration attorney who also does criminal defense work.
Immigrant Visas
If you are planning to immigrate to the U.S,, you may have several options which can include Family Based and/or investor based programs. Please contact your office for your personal consultation.
Do you need a “Green card” or permanent residency. Our law office can help ou with this as well as investor based visa.
For information about Employment-Based Immigrant Visas click here.
Do you want to become a citizen? We can assist you with the naturalization process.
Contact a knowledgeable Tennessee lawyer
At the law firm of Brenda J. Ponsford, PLLC in Tennessee, I advise clients in Knoxville and nearby locations about immigration. To schedule a free consultation, call my firm at (814) 308-8564 or contact me online.
