A play at UNC Charlotte based on the life of Manolo Becantur aims to highlight the local immigrant community. Becantur immigrated to the United States from Colombia in 2000 and faced deportation in 2006. Carlos Alexis Cruz, the show's director, hopes the play will...
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Immigration law
Permanent vs. conditional bars to Good Moral Character
Whether planning to immigrate to the United States or attempting to defend oneself against deportation, a person must demonstrate that he or she is of Good Moral Character. While there is no single definition of what constitutes Good Moral Character, the U.S. Citizen...
What is a bona fide marriage for immigration purposes?
U.S. immigration law prioritizes keeping families together. Consequently, if you have married someone who is not a citizen of the U.S., you may be able to file an immigrant visa petition on his or her behalf. Your spouse may also be able to take advantage of a...
Obtaining a work permit in the U.S.
A work permit, also known as an employment authorization document, is a photo identity card that allows non-permanent resident immigrants to legally work in the U.S. There are specific steps you need to follow to apply for one. Fill out the appropriate form You need...
What is conditional permanent residence?
In the event that a US citizen and a non-US citizen decide to marry and reside in the US, the non-US citizen will need a Green Card. However, the initial Green Card that the US government gives a non-US citizen spouse is not a “permanent” permanent resident card, at...
Protect your permanent resident card
Your valid permanent resident card, or green card, proves that you are in the U.S. lawfully and indicates that you have certain rights. For example, the Department of Homeland Security explains that a green card shows that you have the right to live in the U.S....
Becoming a U.S. citizen through naturalization
As someone who was born outside the United States but is living in North Carolina now, you may want to pursue citizenship so that you may enjoy the same benefits as native-born Americans. You may decide to pursue citizenship through a voluntary process known as...
How do you get a visa for your spouse?
When you move to the U.S., you may want to bring your spouse with you. You need to follow certain guidelines so that your spouse can join you. You need to make sure that you meet all the requirements of a sponsor. According to the U.S. Department of State Bureau of...
What are ways to appeal an immigration decision?
As an immigrant, you have different ways to apply to live in the United States. You may want to become a citizen. You may apply for a work visa so you can take a job in the U.S. A green card is another way to become a resident. However, there is no guarantee that the...