Consular Processing Lawyers in San Francisco

Assisting Clients with Immigration Issues around the Globe

If you wish to obtain a green card and immigrate to the United States, you must go through consular processing. This is an important step in the U.S. immigration visa process. During this process, you will be required to go to the U.S. embassy or consulate in your home country to complete the green card application process.

Typically, you will have to submit various forms, produce required documents, and attend an in-person interview. Consular processing usually occurs after your relative or employer in the U.S. has submitted a visa petition on your behalf and the petition is approved.

Do You Need a Lawyer for Consular Processing?

While it is not required that you have an attorney help you with any part of the green card application process, it is a good idea. Consular processing can be very complicated, and the assistance of an experienced attorney can prove invaluable.

It is especially wise to seek guidance from an attorney if:

• You have ever been deported from the U.S.
• You have ever been convicted of a crime
• You previously entered the U.S. illegally
• You stayed in the U.S. illegally for 180 days or longer
• You currently have an expired U.S. visa
• You currently have asylum status

In some cases, consular processing can result in a ban on entering or re-entering the U.S. This is particularly true if you live in the U.S. unlawfully and then leave in order to obtain a green card through consular processing. Once you leave the U.S., you may be subject to penalties for your unlawful stay.

It is possible to apply for a waiver, but the process can be incredibly difficult. If this is your situation, it is important that you discuss your options with an immigration attorney.

How Our Firm Can Help

Every immigration case is unique. There are numerous factors that can affect the outcome of your case and whether or not you will be able to successfully obtain a green card for entry into the U.S. That being said, our San Francisco consular processing attorneys have extensive experience handling all types of complex immigration matters.

We can help you with every stage of consular processing, including:

• Gathering and submitting paperwork
• Getting the necessary documents in order
• Preparing for your interview

We are also capable of handling particularly unique or difficult situations. Our firm offers legal services in Arabic, English, Spanish, Cantonese, and Portuguese. We can answer your questions and provide you with the straightforward guidance you need.