US Immigration Tools
Not In Removal Proceedings
Step 1: File an Application
- You must be present in the US or port of entry
- The application must be filed within a year of entry (*exceptions apply).
- You must have credible fear of future persecution or experienced persecution in the past.
Step 2: Interview
- Passed Congratulations
- Fail
Referral to the court:
- Master Hearing (might be several)
- Individual Hearing
- Granted Congratulations
First Time in Removal:
- File Asylum as a defense from removal
- Individual hearing
- Arriving Alien and Visa Waiver Overstay: credible fear determination first
In Removal Proceedings
Step 1: *Reinstatement of prior removals:
- Must state that you have a fear of returning to your country.
Step 2: Credible Fear Interview
- Asylee must prove reasonable fear of persecution or torture.
- Passed May apply for withholding (maybe asylum)
- Failed Be Removed or Request review by the judge
Asylum: Lawyer's Publications
EB-1 In 2024–2025: What AAO Decisions And USCIS Guidance Mean For Your Case (And How To Prepare)
immigration
US immigrationlawyer: As a New York immigration lawyer guiding EB-1 filings for researchers, founders, artists, and executives, I’m seeing clear patterns in how USCIS and the Administrative Appeals Office (AAO) are reading the rules right now. Below I unpack t...
Recent USCIS Memo On Good Moral Character For Naturalization (What It Changes And How To Prepare)
immigration
US immigrationlawyer: By New York Immigration Lawyer Alena Shautsova On August 15, 2025, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) issued Policy Memorandum PM-602-0188, instructing officers to apply a rigorous, holistic “totality of the circumstances” r...
USCIS Policy Update: “Anti-American Views” Now A Key Factor In Immigration Adjudications
immigration
US immigrationlawyer: By New York Immigration Lawyer Alena Shautsova What Changed? On August 19, 2025, USCIS updated its Policy Manual (Volume 1) to direct officers to assign “overwhelmingly negative discretionary weight” to applicants who have “endorsed, prom...
I-129F Vs. I-130: Which Petition Is Right For Bringing Your Partner To The USA?
immigration
US immigrationlawyer: New York Immigration Lawyer: ALENA SHAUTSOVA When love crosses borders, U.S. immigration law offers a few paths to unite couples. Two of the most common are Form I-129F (Petition for Alien Fiancé(e)) and Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Rela...