Apply for an Immigrant Visa in Chicago
The immigration attorneys of Scott D. Pollock and Associates, P.C., are ready to help you apply for an immigrant visa in Chicago. Filing for an immigrant visa is a complicated and stressful process. Our knowledgeable and skilled Chicago lawyers are here to guide you through any hurdle that arises.
We help you every step of the way—whether it’s correctly filing your petition with USCIS (United States Citizenship and Immigration Services), gathering necessary documents, or preparing you for your interview—so you have the best possible chance of living and working in Chicago. Together, let’s get started.
What is an Immigrant Visa and Why Apply for One in Chicago?
An immigrant visa allows you to live and work permanently in the U.S. Unlike non-immigrant visas, immigrant visas open the door to a Permanent Residence Card, otherwise known as a green card. Obtaining an immigrant visa is an essential step toward a stable future for individuals and families who wish to reside in Chicago or elsewhere in the U.S..
Applying for an immigrant visa in Chicago can be overwhelming. Strict eligibility requirements, extensive documentation, and ever-changing immigration laws are frequent challenges. Our experienced legal counsel ensures that forms are completed accurately while deadlines are met.
We know that behind every applicant, there is a unique story and valued goals. Whether seeking to reunite with your family, accepting a permanent job offer, or pursuing new opportunities, we are your advocates. Our talented and compassionate attorneys will listen to you, explain your options, and provide valuable guidance.
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for an Immigrant Visa in Chicago
An immigration attorney can help you determine if you qualify and what type of visa you qualify for.
A family member generally files Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, and an employer files Form I-140, Immigrant Petition for Alien Workers.
Submit Form DS-260, Immigrant Visa Electronic Application, and any required documents.
Use only USCIS-approved doctors in Chicago for the exam. You will provide fingerprints, photographs, and digital signatures at a biometric screening center approved by USCIS.
If applying from within Chicago, appointments are usually at the USCIS field office. If you are in your home country, it will be at a consulate office.
If you are denied, we will work with you to appeal.
Determine Your Eligibility
File the Appropriate Petition With USCIS
Complete the Immigrant Visa Application
Attend Your Medical Examination and Biometrics Appointment
Prepare for and Attend Your Visa Interview
Receive Your Immigrant Visa or Green Card
Key Eligibility Criteria for Immigrant Visas in Chicago
Immigrant visa eligibility is determined by federal immigration law. Generally, applicants must have a qualifying family or employment relationship, meet health and security requirements, and prove financial independence or support. Family-based, employment-based, and diversity lottery visas each have their own set of rules and documentation requirements.
The differences for Chicago are mainly the logistics. We advise Chicago applicants on interview locations, medical examiners that the USCIS Chicago Field Office approves, and how to coordinate with consulates abroad as needed.
Our team will help you evaluate whether or not you meet the criteria before you apply. We will look for potential risks and help you gather all the necessary documents. Our experience means fewer setbacks and increases the chance of success.
Benefits of Immigrant Visas for Chicago Residents
Lawful permanent residence translates to a broad range of employment opportunities for Chicago applicants. Chicago is a technology, healthcare, academics, and research hub. Employers are often more willing to hire permanent residents over an applicant on a temporary visa to provide more stability to their organization.
Immigrant visas also provide better access to social programs. Chicago’s public, educational, and healthcare programs are easier for permanent residents to utilize. Additionally, permanent residents are better able to establish long-term housing, obtain in-state tuition rates, and qualify for more financial assistance programs.
Most importantly, permanent residency means an easier path to U.S. citizenship. Becoming a U.S. citizen means being established in the country with no more visa expiration or status change concerns on the horizon. Scott D. Pollock and Associates, is honored to be a part of our clients’ paths to U.S. citizenship.
Common Challenges in the Immigrant Visa Application Process
Applying for an immigrant visa can be complicated and overwhelming. Gathering extensive documentation, understanding evolving immigration policies, meeting deadlines, and long processing times can lead to further costs and delays. You don’t have to face these challenges alone. Our immigration lawyers are adept at preventing problems and overcoming hurdles that may arise during the application process.
How to Avoid Common Mistakes in Your Immigrant Visa Application
Even minor errors can create setbacks during your application process. Here are some practical tips to help reduce the risk of mistakes.
- Double-check all forms to ensure the information is complete and accurate.
- Keep copies of all of your documents for your records.
- Track your deadlines carefully by having essential dates on your calendar, such as your interview, biometrics appointment, and filing deadlines.
- Work with an experienced immigration attorney who can review your case and provide guidance.
Document Checklist for Your Immigrant Visa Application
Required documents vary by visa type and your unique circumstances, but most applicants need to submit the following.
- Valid passport and birth certificate
- Approved immigration petition (Form I-130 or I-140)
- Form DS-260 confirmation page
- Financial support documents (Affidavit of Support, tax returns)
- Civil documents (such as marriage or divorce)
- Police clearance certificates, if required
- Medical examination results
- Biometric screening results
What to Expect After You Apply for an Immigrant Visa
Once you submit your immigrant visa application, you move to the review stage. You might receive requests for additional information if anything is missing or unclear. Processing times vary depending on your particular visa request and whether or not you’re applying from within the U.S. or abroad.
You will be scheduled for an interview and biometric screening if your application is approved. During the interview, immigration officials verify information and evaluate your eligibility.
After you are approved, you will receive instructions on how to enter the U.S. if applying from abroad, or how to adjust your status if applying from within the U.S.
Success Stories of Chicago Immigrant Visa Applicants
We are proud to have served individuals and families on their immigrant visa journeys. We invite you to read their success stories and how we were able to help.
Scott D. Pollock & Associates got my EB1-A petition approved, contrary to the submission of the previous firms contacted initially. This further underscores the ability of their immigration lawyers to handle complex EB1-A petitions.
We are beyond grateful for the incredible support we received from Scott D. Pollock & Associates. They treated us with genuine care and compassion. We couldn’t have asked for a better attorney than Mr. Scott and his super competent assistant, Carlos Barros. Mr. Scott D. is the best! During immigration interviews, Mr. Scott has been so helpful and comforting. He and his team have been such a huge blessing to us. I would recommend them 100%.
Great introductory meeting to discuss the EB2-NIW application. Super informative and detailed in explaining.
100% recommend Kathryn Weber because after losing hope with so many other lawyers, Kathryn reminded me that there’s always hope, even in difficult cases. Since the beginning of my case, she always fought for me. I don’t have enough words to tell her the amount of happiness she brought not only me, but my family as well. Thank you so much, I highly appreciate it.
Why Choose Us for Your Immigrant Visa Application in Chicago?
Choosing the right legal team to assist you in the immigrant visa application process is crucial. Scott D. Pollock and Associates, P.C. offers decades of immigration law experience. Our understanding of federal immigration law and local USCIS procedures means less worry for you and increases your chances of success in becoming a permanent resident of Chicago.
Our talented lawyers have vast experience helping clients in Chicago, the state of Illinois, across the U.S., and abroad. We are your advocates and work hard to maintain a high success rate for our valued clients.
Expertise in Immigrant Visa Applications
Our team diligently and successfully assists clients seeking family-based, employment-based, and diversity lottery immigrant visas using our knowledge of immigration law. We know how to navigate federal immigration law and the Chicago immigrant visa landscape. Our lawyers can guide you through working with the USCIS Chicago Field Office and coordinating with international consulates.
How We Can Simplify Your Immigrant Visa Journey
We manage every step of your immigrant visa journey. We help you complete your application to lessen any chance of error, ensure all necessary documents are included, and prepare you for your interview.
Scott D. Pollock and Associates, P.C. offers transparent communication, compassionate support, and strong advocacy for our clients. Contact us today to discuss your immigrant visa process.
