The truth is that immigration is declining. While it is still growing, its growth rate is slowing, and we may see a fall in the not-too-distant future.

The immigration rate will also be affected by any future changes to our immigration regulations, whether they are more restrictive or more lenient.  Here are some facts concerning immigrants and U.S. immigration law that should be considered, along with getting help from a family immigration lawyer.

Newcomers and Long-Term Residents

There is more gray area than meets the eye between a permanent resident and a citizen of the United States.  The terms “immigrant,” “resident,” and “citizen” are all examples of terminology and categories that come up in discourse; nevertheless, they all have distinct connotations depending on the context in which they are employed.

Non-immigrants, temporary legal residents, and permanent legal residents

Some people who become permanent residents in the United States (either through marriage to a U.S. citizen or resident or through investment) are conditional residents until they complete specific requirements (usually after 2 years have passed).  Two years before their green card expires, conditional residents who have met the necessary qualifying requirements can apply to have those limitations removed.

There are also temporary visitors to the country that are here legally. These individuals are not permanent residents of the United States and will return home after their visit, studies, employment, or specialized training is complete.   However, many will wish to remain in the country and take advantage of the legal channels open to them to become permanent residents.

Trained Employees

It is tempting to believe that any adult who meets the legal requirements and patiently waits in the appropriate queue can eventually become a citizen.  However, there are times and situations where there are no good choices.  Of course, if you happen to be located in Chicago, having the top immigration lawyer in Chicago is the first step in gathering information and developing a strategy for U.S. immigration.

Not everyone who wishes to immigrate to the United States can, but their chances improve if they have rare or uncommon skills.  A “sponsoring” employer is typically required to kick off and guide the immigration procedure for a skilled or talented worker.

Refugees and their Families

U.S. immigration law places a strong emphasis on maintaining family unity.  The issue of family separation has been at the center of the debate about US immigration policy in recent years. However, in most cases, the legal immigration process will allow an entire family—spouse and any children under 21—to immigrate together.