Ilona Bray
J.D. · University of Washington School of Law
How Long Will It Take to Get a Decision on My Asylum Case?
The length of time if takes for an affirmative asylum application to be given a final approval or denial depends on a number of factors, such as how backed up the U.S. government is with applications, its current policy on handling backlogs, and the strength of your case. ... READ MORE
How Do We Prove a Bona Fide Marriage If We Don't Live Together?
From the first petition that a U.S. citizen or permanent resident files with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), it will be necessary to provide documentation showing how the couple shares or is building a life together. ... READ MORE
Grounds for Deportation: Crimes of Moral Turpitude
When is a crime considered morally "wrong" enough to result in a noncitizen's deportation from the United States? ... READ MORE
Is It Worth the Cost of Hiring a Lawyer for U.S. Citizenship or Other Immigration Matters?
The decision whether to hire an immigration attorney to help you with naturalization is a matter of how comfortable you are with applying on your own and how much money you're willing to spend if you want help. To decide if a lawyer is worth it, it helps to know what a lawyer can and can't do for you when you apply for U.S. citizenship. ... READ MORE
How Much Does It Cost to Sponsor a Family Member for a Green Card?
A rundown of government, travel, document, attorney and other fees to obtain lawful permanent residence for a foreign-born relative. ... READ MORE
Eligibility Requirements for Naturalizing as a U.S. Citizen
Know what it takes to prove your eligibility and get ready to submit Form N-400 to apply to be a naturalized U.S. citizen. ... READ MORE
English and Civics Requirements for Naturalized U.S. Citizenship
Learn more about the main exams that U.S. citizenship applicants must pass to become a naturalized U.S. citizen. ... READ MORE
Can I Apply for Asylum Outside the U.S., Like at a U.S. Embassy?
Although plenty of people living in countries outside the U.S. are in fear for their lives and thus seeking a country that offers them protection, asylum is not a status that's available in such circumstances. ... READ MORE
What Happens If I Fail the English or Civics Test for Naturalization?
What happens if, at your citizenship interview, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) tells you that you failed the English test, the civics test, or both? ... READ MORE
Citizenship Oath Waivers for Severely Disabled Applicants
Know someone who applied for U.S. citizenship but who is unable to understand or to communicate an understanding of the oath because of a physical or developmental disability or mental impairment? Find out how to get U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to give that person citizenship without an oath. ... READ MORE