The Common Immigration Questions to Ask in This Pandemic

With so many changes in immigration happening during the COVID-19 pandemic, thousands of individuals in and out of the United States have been affected. The recent developments and their effect on immigration status and visa applications have raised several questions. During the COVID-19 pandemic, our immigration lawyers put together responses to the most frequently asked questions about immigration.

Will I receive a refund for an approved and unused U.S. visa?

As clarified at the time of fee payment, Visa fees are non-refundable. The application fee is charged to cover the expense of the application being adjudicated and processed.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, can I still apply for a U.S. visa?

The Department of State announced on June 22, 2020 that, with some exceptions, they would not issue immigrant visas until December 31, 2020. It won't impact U.S. nationals, lawful permanent residents, and anyone with a valid visa given before April 23, 2020.

What are the exceptions to the new restriction on immigration?

Exceptions include immigrants seeking admission as healthcare professionals, parents, infants, U.S. citizens' prospective adopted children, and some applicants for special immigrant visas.

I have an immigration visa. Does that mean that I'm a permanent legal resident?

No, it is not the same as being an LPR to get a U.S. visa. You need to apply for a status change while you are in the United States in order to receive a green card to become a permanent resident. You can't apply outside the U.S. for a Permanent Resident Card.

Does my case expire on an immigrant or fiancé(e) visa?

The visa case could be postponed because of the recent immigration ban. You can confirm with the U.S. if you have processed your case with the National Visa Center (NVC), U.S. Department of State and Bureau of Consular Affairs to get an update on your situation. In order to obtain more information, you should check with the embassy in your country.

When I have concerns about my current visa application, who can I contact?

You can contact the U.S. embassy or consulate if you have any concerns about a visa application that was submitted before the travel restrictions came into effect. They should be able to provide you with updates about your particular situation. Our Oklahoman immigration lawyers are available to assist you if you have general concerns about your job or family-based visa.

I am a Lawful Permanent Resident (LPR), and I am outside of the United States at the moment. Am I going to lose my Green Card?

Thankfully, the latest immigration ban doesn't extend to legal permanent residents. Green card holders who live outside the U.S. for more than 12 months may however, lose their legal permanent resident status. You can contact our team at Foshee and Yaffee. if you are concerned about losing your green card. To read more about the application process for your stay to be extended. Ask our immigration lawyer in OKC for a detailed help.

**Disclaimer: This content is not to be construed as legal advice nor does it establish terms of a client-attorney relationship.