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Comprehensive Immigration 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 Washington, DC, 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.

Employment-Based Immigration Attorney in Richmond, VA
Legal Staff in Richmond, VA

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.

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.

Medical Professional Immigration in Washington, DC

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.

H-1B Visa

The H-1B visa allows U.S. employers to hire foreign workers with specialized knowledge in fields like engineering and technology. It’s valid for up to three years, and extendable to six. The process is competitive, requiring a job offer, qualifications, and proof of paying prevailing wages. It’s an opportunity for foreign workers to gain experience but often requires legal assistance due to its complexity.

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.

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.

Visa Assistance in Richmond, VA

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.

Entrepreneur Immigration Attorney in Washington, DC

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.

Family Immigration Attorney in DC

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.

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

Obtaining a family-based green card for spouses, children, and parents of U.S. citizens involves understanding the eligibility requirements and presenting extensive documentation to establish the familial relationship. We will guide you through each step, including completing forms, attending interviews, and addressing any requests for additional information from the immigration authorities.

Spouse and Children of Green Card Holders

For spouses and children of green card holders seeking their own permanent residency in the United States, the process of obtaining a family-based green card requires thorough preparation and attention to detail. We will work closely with you to compile the necessary documentation, prepare a strong case to demonstrate your eligibility and guide you through each stage, from submitting the initial application to attending interviews and responding to any requests for further information.

Fiancé(e) of U.S. Citizens

Planning to marry a U.S. citizen and move to the United States involves obtaining a fiancé(e) visa and adjusting your status to a green card holder after marriage. Our immigration attorneys will provide comprehensive support throughout this journey. We will help you understand the fiancé(e) visa application process, assist you in gathering the required documentation, and prepare a compelling petition for submission. Additionally, we will guide you through the adjustment of status process following your marriage, ensuring that all necessary steps are completed accurately and promptly.

Siblings of U.S. Citizens

Reuniting with a sibling in the United States through a family-based green card involves presenting extensive evidence of the sibling relationship and meeting specific eligibility criteria. We will help you compile the necessary documentation, such as birth certificates and proof of relationship, and submit a thorough application that showcases your eligibility for a family-based green card.

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

Humanitarian Immigration

Humanitarian immigration represents a vital aspect of U.S. immigration law, focusing on providing relief and protection to individuals facing severe hardships or dangers in their home countries. At Taghavi Immigration Law we are dedicated to assisting clients through the complexities of humanitarian immigration processes. This area encompasses various forms of relief, including asylum for those escaping persecution, refugee status for individuals displaced by conflict or violence, and Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for those affected by environmental disasters or ongoing armed conflicts. Our expert team is committed to guiding you through every step, ensuring you receive the support and legal representation needed to navigate these critical and life-changing processes.

 

Asylum Applications

Applying for asylum in the United States is a complex legal process that involves presenting a compelling case for protection due to a well-founded fear of persecution in your home country. We will work closely with you to prepare a detailed narrative outlining the persecution you have faced or fear, as well as assist in gathering supporting evidence and testimony. Our attorneys will ensure that your application meets the strict legal standards for asylum eligibility, help you navigate the asylum interview, and represent you in immigration court if necessary.

Temporary Protected Status (TPS)

Temporary Protected Status (TPS) provides a vital lifeline to individuals from designated countries experiencing ongoing armed conflict, environmental disasters, or other extraordinary and temporary conditions. We will guide you through understanding the eligibility criteria, preparing a strong TPS application, and staying informed about any developments affecting TPS designations and renewals. Our attorneys will advocate for your rights and navigate the complexities of the TPS process, offering strategic support to help you seek temporary refuge in the United States during times of crisis in your home country.

Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA)

Seeking protection and work authorization through Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) involves adherence to specific eligibility criteria and a thorough application process. We will provide personalized guidance on assembling the necessary documentation to support your DACA application and ensuring that you present a compelling case for consideration. Our attorneys will also stay abreast of any changes or challenges related to DACA, offering the comprehensive support and advocacy needed to navigate the process with confidence and work towards securing protection and opportunities in the United States.

U Visa for Victims of Crimes

Victims of certain crimes who have suffered mental or physical abuse and are helpful to law enforcement or government officials in the investigation or prosecution of criminal activity may be eligible for a U visa. We will guide you through gathering the necessary documentation, including law enforcement certifications and evidence of the qualifying crime, and preparing a strong U visa application package. Our attorneys will also provide vital support in communicating with law enforcement agencies and ensuring that your rights as a victim of crime are protected.

Violence Against Women Act (VAWA)

The Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) provides a pathway to lawful permanent residency for certain immigrant survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and other forms of abuse. We will provide comprehensive support in gathering the necessary evidence, such as affidavits and documentation of the abuse, and preparing a compelling self-petition for VAWA relief. Our attorneys will offer personalized guidance, advocate for your rights, and navigate the VAWA process with sensitivity and determination, empowering you to seek protection and independence in the United States.

Humanitarian Parole

Seeking entry into the United States for urgent humanitarian reasons, such as medical emergencies, family reunification, or other compelling humanitarian concerns, may necessitate the process of applying for humanitarian parole. We will guide you through understanding the eligibility criteria, gathering supporting documentation, and presenting a strong case for humanitarian parole. Our attorneys will advocate for your urgent humanitarian needs, address any challenges or requests for additional information, and pursue a favorable outcome that enables you to enter the United States for the humanitarian purposes you seek.

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.

Removal Defense in Washington, DC

Removal Defense

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 Wash8ington, DC, 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 Law

Cancellation of Removal

US Citizenship & Naturalization in 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.

Student Visas (F-1, M-1)

The process of obtaining a student visa (F-1, M-1) to pursue academic or vocational studies in the United States requires meticulous preparation and adherence to specific requirements. We will guide you through the documentation needed, including maintaining compliance with college admissions, financial support, and demonstrating ties to your home country. Our attorneys will assist in preparing a compelling visa application, including any necessary forms and supporting materials, to present a strong case to the U.S. embassy or consulate.

Exchange Visitor Visas (J-1)

Participating in an exchange visitor program in the United States under a J-1 visa involves a specific application process and adherence to program requirements. We will guide you through gathering the required documentation, including the necessary program sponsorship, and preparing a detailed application that aligns with the exchange visitor program guidelines. Our attorneys will also assist in addressing any requests for additional information or documentation and provide support throughout the duration of your exchange visitor program.

Citizenship Attorney 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

Naturalization applications refer to the process by which individuals can become U.S. citizens. The application process involves several steps and requirements. To apply for naturalization, one typically needs to meet certain eligibility criteria such as being at least 18 years old, being a lawful permanent resident (Green Card holder) for a specific period of time, demonstrating continuous residence in the U.S., and meeting English language and civics knowledge requirements
Navigating the intricacies of the naturalization process demands careful attention to detail and expert knowledge of the legal requirements. Our team is well-versed in handling naturalization applications and guiding individuals through the intricate steps involved in achieving US citizenship. From compiling essential documentation to completing the necessary forms, we are here to simplify the application process and advocate for your successful naturalization.

Citizenship through Parents (N-600)

The N-600 application, also known as the Application for Certificate of Citizenship, is filed to obtain a Certificate of Citizenship, serving as evidence of an individual’s or a child’s U.S. citizenship. This form is typically used by individuals who were born abroad and are claiming U.S. citizenship at birth through their parents. It can also be filed to obtain evidence of U.S. citizenship for eligible individuals or children. Our knowledgeable team will guide you through this intricate process, simplifying the steps needed to acquire US citizenship through your parents. We provide expert guidance specific to your circumstances, ensuring a seamless and efficient path toward obtaining citizenship through parents.

Certificate of Citizenship (N-600K)

The Certificate of Citizenship (N-600K) is an application filed by parents or legal guardians of foreign-born children to request US citizenship on behalf of their child1. This application is specifically for children who regularly reside outside of the United States. To obtain a Certificate of Citizenship through the N-600K application, sufficient evidence must be provided to establish the child’s eligibility. Our experienced team will guide you through each step of the application process, providing personalized assistance to help your child acquire their Certificate of Citizenship efficiently.

Citizenship Tests and Interviews

Citizenship tests and interviews are important steps in the naturalization process. Once an individual’s naturalization application is accepted, they will be scheduled for an interview with a U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) officer. During this interview, the applicant will be asked questions to verify their eligibility and assess their English language ability and knowledge of U.S. civics. We can provide assistance and guidance throughout the naturalization process, including preparing for citizenship tests and interviews. We can help individuals understand the requirements, provide study materials for the civics test, conduct mock interviews to practice, and offer expert advice on how to strengthen language skills.

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