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Want to Start A Business in the U.S. and Live Here? The E-2 Treaty Investor Visa May Be for You
For those who have an entrepreneurial spirit, or who have ever thought about opening a business in the U.S., the E-2 investor visa may be a good fit. This visa allows for a foreign person to open a U.S. business and stay and live in the U.S. legally for an indefinite amount of time. As long as the business continues to run, the investor can continue to renew his/her E-2 visa and remain in the U.S. However, the investor must have an intent to return to her home country when the E status ends. The E-2 visa allows a person from a foreign country to come to the U.S. and…
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Applying for U.S. Citizenship 101
Most people who immigrate to the U.S. ultimately have the goal of becoming a U.S. citizen. Becoming a U.S. citizen is not necessary, but it comes with benefits you would not get as a permanent resident (aka green card holder) such as, the right to vote, being able to hold certain government jobs, and being able to live in another country for the rest of your life while still being able to come back to the U.S. as you please. Read below to find out more about what it takes to become a U.S. citizen. How to Apply for U.S. Citizenship Make sure you are eligible to be a U.S.…
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The Meaning of Unlawful Presence
What Unlawful Presence Means Unlawful presence is staying in the U.S. after your authorizing document (for example, your visa) has expired, or presence without being formally admitted or paroled. Admitted means you lawfully entered the U.S. after inspection and authorization by an immigration officer such as a customs and border patrol officer. Entering without inspection (aka EWI) means a person entered the U.S. without documents. Paroled means you were lawfully allowed to enter the U.S. without admission documents. This option is mainly for humanitarian reasons. How You Accrue Unlawful Presence As briefly mentioned above, unlawful presence comes (a) when you stay in the U.S. after your document expires, (b) when…
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EB-2 Overview and Basics
An EB-2 visa is an employment-based permanent residency visa for employment within the United States. It is the second type of five preference visas where people can gain lawful permanent status (aka green card) based on their jobs or profession. It is an ideal option for those seeking permanent residency in the United States and has advanced degrees and work experience in his or her field of expertise. To qualify for an EB-2 visa, one must be a member of qualified professions holding an advanced degree or the equivalent. Individuals who have an exceptional ability in science, art, or business that benefits the American economy, cultural or economic interests may…