We Fight For Your Immigration Status

Comprehensive Immigration Law Representation

At Taghavi Immigration Law, we understand your case is about more than obtaining a visa or pursuing citizenship — it is about providing new opportunities for yourself and your family. Our sole practice area is immigration law, and each member of our team is committed to helping you open a new chapter in your life.

Our firm operates out of offices in Richmond, VA, and Scottsdale, AZ, and offers experienced representation to clients coast to coast and internationally. As our client, you will work directly with our attorney and receive constant updates pertaining to your case. Through our virtual services, our services are at your fingertips wherever you are located.

Guiding you through even the most complex immigration issues.

Employment Based Immigration in NOVA

Employment-Based Immigration Law

We specialize in assisting employment-based immigrants seeking to live and work permanently in the United States. Our team of experienced immigration lawyers provides comprehensive support throughout the application process, ensuring that all necessary paperwork is prepared accurately and submitted on time. With our expertise, we help individuals navigate the complexities of employment-based immigration, guiding them toward successfully obtaining a Green Card and pursuing their professional goals in the United States.

Employment-Based Immigrants in Richmond, VA

Physician Immigration

If you’re a doctor or physician considering a move to the United States to practice medicine, navigating the process requires careful consideration. The journey involves understanding various requirements and visa options tailored for foreign physicians. From the intricate steps to the available visa pathways, our goal is to provide comprehensive guidance on making the U.S. your new professional home. Explore the crucial details to ensure a smooth transition and successful establishment of your medical career in the United States.

J-1 Visa

The J-1 visa is a popular option for medical professionals seeking educational and clinical exchange programs in the United States. This visa allows foreign medical graduates to participate in residency programs, research fellowships, or clinical rotations, gaining valuable experience and knowledge. However, it often requires a requirement of returning to their home country for at least two years upon completion of the program, unless eligible for a waiver.

H-1B Visa

O-1 Visa

The O-1 visa is designed for individuals with extraordinary abilities in the fields of science, education, business, arts, or athletics. To qualify for an O-1 visa, you must demonstrate a high level of achievement and recognition in your field of expertise. The O-1 visa is typically granted for an initial period of three years, with the option to extend in one-year increments.

TN Visa

The TN-Visa is a non-immigrant visa category specifically for citizens of Canada and Mexico. It allows individuals to work in the United States in certain professional occupations. To be eligible for a TN-Visa, you must possess a job offer from a U.S. employer in a qualifying profession outlined in the NAFTA agreement. The TN-Visa is typically granted for an initial period of one year, with the option to renew in one-year increments.

US Citizenship & Naturalization in Richmond, VA

Citizenship & Naturalization Services

The road to becoming a citizen of the United States can be very complex. There are a number of paths to citizenship, including marriage to a US citizen, establishing permanent residency for five years, honorable military service, or deriving it from a US citizen parent.

We will guide you through the citizenship process step-by-step, from evaluating your eligibility, properly submitting your application, and tracking your application up to the point of preparing you for your naturalization interview.

Naturalization Applications

Citizenship through Parents (N-600)

Certificate of Citizenship (N-600K)

Citizenship Tests and Interviews

Family Based Immigration in Richmond, VA

Family-Based Immigration Law

One of the most fulfilling aspects of our work is reuniting families. Our attorney and staff have experience in all aspects of family immigration law. We are here to help your family reach a successful conclusion to your case.

Petition for Alien Relatives

If you are a US citizen or legal permanent resident, you may petition for a direct relative (mother, father, brother, sister, or adult child) to join you in the United States. Our team can assist you in preparing the applications and processing your case through the National Visa Center & State Department, through the point of your relative entering the country and obtaining their green card.

Fiancé Petitions

If your fiancé/fiancée lives overseas or out of the country and you reside in the United States, you will have to petition for that person to come to the United States. Within 90 days of their arrival to the United States, you will need to get married. After you are married, you will need to apply for your spouse’s permanent resident card.

During the application process, if you do not submit all required evidence to immigration, it can result in a denial or long delay in the process. Our attorney and team will work to ensure your application is submitted correctly the first time, which makes the process more seamless for you and your fiance.

Removal of Conditions

Individuals granted conditional residency in the United States (a two-year green card) must apply to remove these conditions 90 days before the conditional card expires. You must be able to prove you entered your marriage in good faith and that you and your spouse live together as a married couple.

However, if you are now separated or divorced from your green card sponsor, you may still be eligible to apply for removal of conditions on your own. Working with an experienced immigration law office will improve your chances of approval and help you avoid any interviews before receiving your ten-year green card.

Marriage-Based Green Cards

Adoption Immigration

Immigration Services in Virginia

Employment-Based Green Cards

Employment-Based Green Cards, including categories EB-1, EB-2, and EB-3, simplify the process for businesses and individuals seeking skilled professionals. Navigating eligibility, documentation, and timelines efficiently, these green cards streamline access to crucial foreign talent, contributing significantly to the growth and innovation of the U.S. economy.

EB-1

The EB-1 category is reserved for individuals of extraordinary ability in their field, outstanding professors and researchers, and multinational managers and executives. To be eligible for an EB-1 green card, the individual must demonstrate extraordinary ability in the sciences, arts, education, business, or athletics, with national or international acclaim. Alternatively, they may be an outstanding professor or researcher who has at least three years of experience in their field, or a multinational manager or executive who has been employed abroad with the sponsoring employer for at least one year. The processing time for an EB-1 category petition can vary depending on individual circumstances but generally takes 6-12 months.

EB-2

The EB-2 category is for professionals with advanced degrees or individuals with exceptional ability in their field. To be eligible for an EB-2 green card, the individual must have a master’s degree or higher in their field, or a bachelor’s degree and at least five years of progressive experience in their field. Alternatively, they may demonstrate exceptional ability in the sciences, arts, or business by meeting various criteria. The processing time for an EB-2 category petition can also vary depending on individual circumstances but generally takes 6-12 months.

EB-3

The EB-3 category is for professionals, skilled workers, and other workers. To be eligible for an EB-3 green card, the individual must possess a U.S. bachelor’s degree or foreign equivalent, or two years of work experience in their field. Skilled workers must have at least two years of work experience or training, while other workers must demonstrate the ability to perform unskilled labor that is required by the sponsoring employer. The processing time for an EB-3 category petition can vary from 6 months to several years, depending on individual circumstances and visa availability.

The Case Process

1. Consultation

Schedule a consultation with our experienced immigration attorneys to discuss your employment needs and determine the most suitable employment-based green card category for your specific situation.

2. Labor Certification

For most employment-based green card petitions, a labor certification (PERM) must be obtained from the Department of Labor to verify that there are no qualified U.S. workers available to fill the job opportunity. Our team will work closely with you to ensure all required documentation is obtained and the PERM application is filed accurately and efficiently.

3. I-140 Petition

Once the labor certification is approved, we will prepare and file the I-140 petition with supporting evidence to demonstrate the employee’s eligibility for the chosen employment-based green card category.

4. Adjustment of Status or Consular Processing

The employee may either apply for adjustment of status or consular processing, depending on their visa status. If the employee is in the U.S. on a non-immigrant visa, they may apply for adjustment of status to become a permanent resident. If they are outside the U.S., consular processing will be required.

5. Approval and Permanent Residency

After the I-140 petition is approved, the employee may apply for permanent residency. Depending on the category of the green card petition, the processing time for the final stages of the process will vary.

Green Card Approval in VA

Family-Based Green Cards

Employment-Based Green Cards, categorized as EB-1, EB-2, and EB-3, enable the permanent residency of foreign workers based on their skills and contributions. These green cards streamline the immigration process for skilled professionals, addressing workforce needs, fostering economic growth, and encouraging innovation in the United States.

Spouse, Children, and Parents of U.S. Citizens

Spouse and Children of Green Card Holders

Fiancé(e) of U.S. Citizens

Siblings of U.S. Citizens

Self-Petitioning Green Cards

Self-petitioning green cards offer a unique opportunity for highly skilled individuals to establish their eligibility for permanent residency in the United States without the need for employer sponsorship. The two primary categories of self-petitioning green cards include the National Interest Waiver (NIW) and the EB-1A (Extraordinary Ability) visa. Both categories require individuals to demonstrate exceptional abilities and contributions to their respective fields.

NIW

The National Interest Waiver (NIW) allows highly qualified individuals to petition for a green card on the basis of the national interest of the United States. To qualify for the NIW self-petition, an applicant must demonstrate significant achievements and potential for continued contributions, as well as the ability to benefit the U.S. national interest. This category does not require an employer sponsor and can be self-filed.

EB-1A

The EB-1A category allows individuals with extraordinary abilities in their field to self-petition for a green card. To qualify for this category, an applicant must demonstrate sustained national or international acclaim, original contributions of major significance in the field, and evidence of scholarly, business, or athletic contributions of significant importance. An employer sponsor is not required for this category, and individuals can file the petition on their own.

The Case Process

1. Filing the Petition

The first step in the case process for self-petitioning green cards is filing the petition with the USCIS. Applicants must submit extensive documentation and evidence to demonstrate their eligibility for the chosen category, whether it is NIW or EB-1A.

2. Evaluation and Request for Evidence (RFE)

After receiving a petition, the USCIS will review all the submitted paperwork and may issue an RFE if they require further information or clarification. An RFE is not a denial but rather a request for more information from the applicant.

3. Decision and Approval

Once the USCIS receives and reviews all the documentation and evidence, they will make a decision on whether to approve or deny the self-petition. If the petition is approved, the applicant can then move on to the final step.

4. Adjustment of Status or Consular Processing

Finally, after receiving approval, the applicant can either adjust their status to permanent residency within the United States or go through consular processing outside the United States to receive their green card.

Investment & Entrepreneur Immigration

Investment and Entrepreneur Immigration offer pathways for individuals seeking to invest or start a business in the United States. These immigration options provide opportunities for foreign investors and entrepreneurs to contribute to the U.S. economy while potentially obtaining a visa or green card. With careful navigation of eligibility criteria and the case process, individuals can explore avenues such as the E2 Treaty visa or the EB-5 Green Card to fulfill their entrepreneurial aspirations in the United States.

Visa - E2 Treaty

The E2 Treaty visa enables foreign nationals from certain treaty countries to invest in a new or existing U.S. business and obtain a visa to live and work in the United States. Eligibility for the E2 visa requires a substantial investment in a bona fide enterprise, demonstrating that the investment is at risk and will generate more than a marginal income. The case processing time for the E2 visa can vary but typically takes a few months.

Green Card - EB-5

The EB-5 Green Card provides a pathway to permanent residency in the United States for investors who meet the program’s eligibility requirements. To qualify for the EB-5 program, individuals must invest a certain amount of capital in a new commercial enterprise that will create or preserve at least 10 full-time jobs for qualifying U.S. workers.

The Case Process

1. Document Gathering and Preparation

Collect all necessary documents, including business plans, financial statements, investment proof, job creation plans, and other relevant evidence to support the application.

2. Petition Filing

Submit the completed application, including the required forms and supporting documents, to the respective immigration authorities, such as USCIS.

3. Interview (if applicable)

Attend an interview with a consular officer at the U.S. embassy or consulate in the home country (applicable for E2 visa) to discuss the investment or business plans, intention to create jobs, and other aspects of the application.

4. Visa or Green Card Approval

Upon successful review of the application and satisfaction of the eligibility criteria, receive approval for the visa (E2 Treaty) or conditional green card (EB-5) which allows individuals to live, work, and conduct business in the United States.

5. Business Establishment and Operations

Establish the business in the United States as per the investment plan, ensuring compliance with all legal and operational requirements.

6. Monitoring and Compliance

Comply with the investment conditions and regularly monitor the progress of the business, job creation, and other requirements to maintain eligibility for the visa or green card.

7. Removal of Conditions (EB-5)

After a specific period, file the I-829 petition to remove the conditions from the green card and receive a permanent green card, providing evidence of job creation and investment fulfillment.

Medical Professionals

Employment-Based Immigration Law offers various pathways for medical professionals to live and work in the United States. These immigration options recognize the valuable contributions that foreign medical professionals bring to the healthcare system. With specialized categories such as the J-1 visa, Conrad 30 Program, and the opportunity to apply for an H-1B after graduation, medical professionals can pursue their careers in the United States while providing vital healthcare services to the community.

J-1 Visa

The J-1 visa is a popular option for medical professionals seeking educational and clinical exchange programs in the United States. This visa allows foreign medical graduates to participate in residency programs, research fellowships, or clinical rotations, gaining valuable experience and knowledge. However, it often requires a requirement of returning to their home country for at least two years upon completion of the program, unless eligible for a waiver.

Conrad 30 Program

The Conrad 30 Program addresses the shortage of physicians in underserved areas by allowing J-1 visa holders to obtain a waiver of the two-year home residency requirement. This program provides an opportunity for foreign medical graduates to work in medically underserved areas, often in rural or urban communities with limited access to healthcare services. Through the Conrad 30 Program, medical professionals can contribute to addressing healthcare gaps while pursuing their careers in the United States.

Applying for the H-1B After Graduation

After completing their medical education in the United States, international medical graduates may be eligible to apply for the H-1B visa. This program allows graduates to work in the United States as a practicing physician in hospitals or other healthcare institutions. The H-1B visa offers an avenue for international medical graduates to build their careers in the United States and contribute to the healthcare system. The application process for the H-1B visa involves obtaining sponsorship from a U.S. employer, meeting the eligibility requirements, and going through the USCIS petition process.

US visa application | Richmond VA

Visas

There are two types of visas for the United States: immigrant and nonimmigrant. Immigrant visas are intended for individuals who want to live in the United States permanently. A nonimmigrant visa is issued to individuals who wish to enter the United States on a temporary basis such as medical treatment, business, tourism, temporary work, study, or similar reasons, these Visas include Student Visa, J-1 Visas, Tourist Visa.

Attorney Soulmaz Taghavi and team will work with you to determine which visa type fits your situation and then guide you through the visa application process.

Visitor Visas (B-1/B-2)

Student Visas (F-1, M-1)

Exchange Visitor Visas (J-1)

Visa Extensions and Changes of Status

H1-B Visa in NOVA

Work Visas

The Green Card for Employment-Based Immigrant service offered by Taghavi Immigration Law provides expert assistance to individuals seeking permanent residency in the United States through employment. Our experienced team of lawyers  is here to guide you through the application process for various work visa categories, including H1B, H2B, TN-Visa, and O-1 Visa.

H1B Visa

The H1B visa is designed for highly skilled foreign workers in specialty occupations. To be eligible for an H1B visa, you must have a job offer from a U.S. employer and possess specialized knowledge or a degree that is relevant to the position. The H1B visa is typically valid for up to three years, with the option to extend for an additional three years.

H2B Visa

The H2B visa is available for non-agricultural seasonal workers. It is ideal for individuals seeking temporary employment in industries such as hospitality, landscaping, or construction. To qualify for an H2B visa, you must have a job offer from a U.S. employer and demonstrate that your employment is temporary in nature. The H2B visa is typically granted for the duration of the approved employment period.

TN-Visa

The TN-Visa is a non-immigrant visa category specifically for citizens of Canada and Mexico. It allows individuals to work in the United States in certain professional occupations. To be eligible for a TN-Visa, you must possess a job offer from a U.S. employer in a qualifying profession outlined in the NAFTA agreement. The TN-Visa is typically granted for an initial period of one year, with the option to renew in one-year increments.

O-1 Visa

The O-1 visa is designed for individuals with extraordinary abilities in the fields of science, education, business, arts, or athletics. To qualify for an O-1 visa, you must demonstrate a high level of achievement and recognition in your field of expertise. The O-1 visa is typically granted for an initial period of three years, with the option to extend in one-year increments.

The Case Process

1. Consultation

Schedule a consultation with our experienced immigration attorneys to discuss your eligibility and determine the most suitable work visa category for your situation.

2. Document Preparation

Our team will assist you in gathering the required documents, such as job offer letters, educational qualifications, and supporting evidence of your specialized skills or extraordinary abilities.

3. Petition Filing

We will prepare and file your work visa petition with the appropriate government agencies, ensuring that all forms are completed accurately and accompanied by the necessary supporting documents.

4. Case Processing

We will closely monitor the progress of your case and provide updates on any developments or requests for additional information from the immigration authorities. Our team will respond promptly and professionally to any inquiries during the case processing period.

5. Approval and Visa Issuance

Once your work visa is approved, our team will guide you through the necessary steps to obtain the visa stamp at the U.S. embassy or consulate in your home country.

deportation defense lawyer | Taghavi Immigration Law, Richmond VA and Phoenix AZ

Removal Defense & Humanitarian Immigration

If you or a loved one have been threatened with deportation back to your home country, you may feel like you have no one on your side. Our attorney and team have a special interest in removal defense cases.

While we serve clients across the United States, our office in Scottsdale, AZ, offers us a geographic advantage for defending detainees and clients who have family members in detention and seeking bond at the US southern border.

As your attorney, Soulmaz will aggressively defend your rights through every phase of your case. She and her team will create a comprehensive legal strategy to give you the best chance of avoiding deportation.

Asylum Applications

Temporary Protected Status (TPS)

Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA)

U Visa for Victims of Crimes

Violence Against Women Act (VAWA)

Humanitarian Parole

obtaining advance parole for foreign nationals | Taghavi Immigration Law, Richmond VA and Phoenix AZ

Advance Parole

Advance parole is a permit that allows certain foreign nationals to travel abroad and re-enter the United States without an immigrant or non-immigrant visa. You must be granted this permission before leaving the country, because if you travel and have not been granted Advance Parole, you will not be permitted to re-enter the United States.

If you are suitable for an advance parole, we will work with you to prepare and file the required documents and ensure any pending Adjustment of Status or certain protected status are maintained upon your return to the country.

Asylum Services in Virginia

Asylum

In the United States, asylum immigration is open to people who have been persecuted in their home countries or have reason to believe they will be. In order to receive this type of relief, you must meet very strict requirements. Additionally, your request must be submitted with merit; otherwise, you could find yourself removed from the United States and barred from returning.

Working with an experienced immigration law firm will ensure you and your family can successfully enter and receive asylum status in the United States.

immigration lawyer for Temporary Protected Status designation | Taghavi Immigration Law, Richmond VA and Phoenix AZ

Temporary Protected Status

Temporary Protected Status is granted to nationals from designated countries affected by natural disasters, ongoing armed conflicts, or other extraordinary and temporary conditions. This immigration status provides a stay of deportation and work permit to qualified individuals. A TPS designation is established by executive action and can be made for six, 12, or 18 months at a time.

This is an older program, so our firm can help you apply for late registration. If you have questions regarding eligibility, we encourage you to reach out to our firm.

hardship waivers for undocumented immigrants | Taghavi Immigration Law, Richmond VA and Phoenix AZ

Hardship Waivers

If you or a loved one have entered the United States without documentation, typically you will have to apply for an “extreme hardship waiver” to overcome the penalty and obstacles presented by being in the country illegally. In order to file this waiver, you must provide strong evidence that you or your qualifying relative will experience hardship if you are not admitted to reside in the United States.

If you leave the United States without this waiver after petitioning, you could be barred from re-entering the United States for ten years or more. This petition process can be complicated and challenging, and if it is not handled correctly, it could result in deportation. We will work with you to ensure your waiver is appropriately filed.

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What our clients are saying…

“I can be a very selective person when it comes to fateful cases such as immigration. When I wanted to bring my fiancé to the states, I met with many lawyers in town to discuss the process and paperwork for the visa. Soulmaz was my favorite among them all! I was 100% satisfied to hire her because she is very sincere, knowledgeable, and will do her best to win your case. Now, she is working on my wife’s green card as well. All in all, she is highly recommended!”

– Kamal

“Soulmaz was an invaluable help to me in getting my I751 Green Card petition organised. I highly recommend her firm. She was so quick to respond to any questions and was such a nice person to boot. Soulmaz was also able to cut the time it took me to complete the forms, and she saved me countless hours had I tried to do it all by myself. 100% recommended. Thanks!”

– Emmett O.

“I was working with the office for my immigration case. The level of professionalism could not have pleased me more. She is highly knowledgeable in the area which makes you feel confident about your case. I am more than happy for giving my case to her.”

– Mojtaba J.

“La mejor abogada en casos de inmigración muy agradecido por muy buenos resultados para con mi familia.”

– Antonio R.

“Soulmaz comes prepared for trial and I’ve seen her win.”

– Brenton B.

“Soulmaz is an outstanding attorney. She is compassionate and a zealous advocate for her clients. She knows the law and stays on top of all the changes. She is a fighter and will give you the results you need!”

– Erica B.

“I’m so happy! Excellent lawyer — they are a great team and very professional!”

– Melissa G.

“Ms. Soulmaz Taghavi is a very helpful lawyer. I worked with her on a couple of cases and so far, has kept me out of trouble and in line with legal matters. Would definitely hire her again for anything that requires court!”

– Jom D.

“Taghavi Immigration Law Es el mejor equipo legal en RVA!

Casos de inmigración y casos criminales, tráfico etc resueltos por los mejores 2 abogados que an trabajado en mis casos legales. Soulmaz y Raul hacen un gran equipo ayudando a nuestra comunidad hispana y otras rasas claro. Su equipo es muy esencial y muy profesional. Te recomiendo que lleves tu caso legal con ellos. Ellos se encargarán de tu caso y de ti con el mejor trato amable posible. Son los mejores.”

– Susana B.

“I’ve worked with Soulmaz on several SIJS matters. I have always found her to be knowledgeable, prepared, and an effective advocate for her clients. I would recommend her wholeheartedly for any client facing an immigration issue.”

– Jesse B.

“When I wanted to bring my fiancé to the states, I met with many lawyers in town to discuss the process and paperwork for the visa. Soulmaz was my favorite among them all… All in all, she is highly recommended!”

– Kamal

“Soulmaz was an invaluable help to me in getting my I751 Green Card petition organised… Soulmaz was also able to cut the time it took me to complete the forms, and she saved me countless hours… Thanks!”

– Emmett O.

“I was working with the office for my immigration case. The level of professionalism could not have pleased me more. She is highly knowledgeable in the area which makes you feel confident about your case. I am more than happy for giving my case to her.”

– Mojtaba J.

“La mejor abogada en casos de inmigración muy agradecido por muy buenos resultados para con mi familia.”

– Antonio R.

“Soulmaz comes prepared for trial and I’ve seen her win.”

– Brenton B.

“Soulmaz is an outstanding attorney. She is compassionate and a zealous advocate for her clients…. She is a fighter and will give you the results you need!”

– Erica B.

“I’m so happy! Excellent lawyer — they are a great team and very professional!”

– Melissa G.

“Ms. Soulmaz Taghavi is a very helpful lawyer… Would definitely hire her again for anything that requires court!”

– Jom D.

“Taghavi Immigration Law Es el mejor equipo legal en RVA! …Su equipo es muy esencial y muy profesional. Te recomiendo que lleves tu caso legal con ellos… Son los mejores.”

– Susana B.

“I’ve worked with Soulmaz on several SIJS matters. I have always found her to be knowledgeable, prepared, and an effective advocate for her clients.”

– Jesse B.