Immigration
Klampe Law Firm has a long history of representing clients from around the world. Our staff and attorneys are fluent in several languages including Spanish, Somali, and Italian. We work closely with local translators in other languages to ensure the best possible communication with our clients.
We are skilled in immigration law and visa procedures. There are literally hundreds of types of immigration and visa cases. Each and every situation requires careful analysis to determine the appropriate course of action. In the rapid changing field of immigration law, an immigration attorney can provide up to date information on the current processing requirements. It is important to seek information before filing any immigration petition or visa application to know your rights and any potential risks involved.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I become a permanent resident?
Generally, to obtain permanent resident status a person must be eligible in an immigrant category and be admissible to enter the United States. Permanent residence may be obtained by an Adjustment of Status if present in the United States or through Consular Processing if outside the United States.
How do I become a United States citizen?
US citizenship is obtained through the USCIS under a naturalization process. In general, only those who already have permanent resident status are eligible to apply for citizenship. After five years as a permanent resident you may apply for citizenship. If you are a spouse of a United States citizen you may apply for citizenship after three years of permanent residency.
In addition, to qualify for citizenship, you must pass a test regarding minimal English skills and knowledge of the United States Government. Because certain rights and benefits attach to US citizens, if eligible, a permanent resident should apply as soon as they are qualified.
How do I bring my family member to the United States?
A family member must be sponsored by another close family member who is a United States Citizen or a Permanent Resident (“Green Card Holder”).
US citizens may sponsor their spouse, children under the age of 21, and parents (if the sponsor is age 21 or older) for permanent residency. Because an immediate visa number is available for this category of immigrants, an application can usually be filed and the process completed in 6 months to a year depending on the ever changing case loads.
US citizens may also sponsor their children over the age of 21 and their siblings for permanent residency. These categories of immigrants take much longer with waiting periods for siblings often being twenty years or more.
Permanent Residents may sponsor their spouse and children under the age of 21, and adult unmarried children for permanent residency. Depending on the visa category and country of birth these types of immigrant visas can take months to years.
What is a visa?
A visa is an official endorsement by the US consul abroad that the person may seek admission to the US at a designated port of entry. It usually consists of a visa stamp in a passport. It does not give the right to enter the US. Once arriving in the US, the US Department of State and Department of Homeland Security then determine whether the person will be admitted to the US and the length and conditions of the stay. If admitted the INS will then issue a white card called an I-94 indicating the non-citizens status.
What do you charge for an immigration case?
In most situations we charge a one time flat fee depending on the type of immigration case. The first consultation is $200.00. The $200.00 initial fee is credited to your flat fee if you retain our firm within 30 days for your immigration case.
Do you accept major credit cards as form of payment?
Yes. We accept Visa, MasterCard & Discover.