I was fortunate enough to be invited to visit Yunnan and Shandong Provinces in China in September 2011. During this trip, I attended meetings, did a short presentation, and visited with potential clients. Here are some pictures of the trip:
10/12/2011
2013 Diversity Visa Lottery Program 多國籍移民簽證計劃
If you are interested in the diversity lottery program for the fiscal year of 2013, you may start submitting application from October 4 to November 5, 2011. Like last year, 50,000 immigrant visas will be available under the program for the fiscal year of 2013. Result of the lottery will be made available on May 1, 2012.
A couple friendly reminders: 1) Persons born in Mainland China, Mexico, and other countries where a large number of immigrants come from are not eligible to participate in the lottery; 2) the program is completely free and only those who win will be required to pay a visa application fee; 3) winners will not be notified by mail or email by the State Department.
Disclaimer: Information included in this page does not constitute as legal advice and receipt of this page does not establish attorney-client relationship. For specific inquiries, please call my office and schedule an appointment.
如果你有興趣參加2013財政年度的多國籍移民簽證計劃，你需要在2011年10月1日至11月5日期間遞交申請表。與去年一樣，多國籍移民簽證計劃今年將會提供50,000個移民簽證配額。抽籤結果將會在2012年5月1日公佈。
以下是關於此計劃的溫馨提示：1)於中國大陸、墨西哥等移民主要來源地出生的人士是不能參加此計劃的；2) 多國籍移民簽證計劃是免費參加的。只有符合資格而被選中面談的申請人需繳交簽證的申請費；3)國務院不會將中籤通知書以郵件或電郵方式寄給被抽中的幸運兒。
以上資料僅供參考之用，並非法律意見。如有個別問題，請致電本人查詢。
A couple friendly reminders: 1) Persons born in Mainland China, Mexico, and other countries where a large number of immigrants come from are not eligible to participate in the lottery; 2) the program is completely free and only those who win will be required to pay a visa application fee; 3) winners will not be notified by mail or email by the State Department.
Disclaimer: Information included in this page does not constitute as legal advice and receipt of this page does not establish attorney-client relationship. For specific inquiries, please call my office and schedule an appointment.
如果你有興趣參加2013財政年度的多國籍移民簽證計劃，你需要在2011年10月1日至11月5日期間遞交申請表。與去年一樣，多國籍移民簽證計劃今年將會提供50,000個移民簽證配額。抽籤結果將會在2012年5月1日公佈。
以下是關於此計劃的溫馨提示：1)於中國大陸、墨西哥等移民主要來源地出生的人士是不能參加此計劃的；2) 多國籍移民簽證計劃是免費參加的。只有符合資格而被選中面談的申請人需繳交簽證的申請費；3)國務院不會將中籤通知書以郵件或電郵方式寄給被抽中的幸運兒。
以上資料僅供參考之用，並非法律意見。如有個別問題，請致電本人查詢。
8/04/2011
New Administrative Changes to Attract Foreign Investors 吸引外商投資的新措施
USCIS announced this week that a few administarive changes would be made to attract more foreign investors to create job opportunities in the U.S. These changes include:
- Premium processing available to EB-1 petitioners that apply under the multinational executives and managers caategory (E13) and EB-5 investors;
- EB-2 applicants may apply under the National Interest Waiver (NIW) if they can show that they are either a member in a profession that requires an advanced degree or an individual of exceptional ability and their investment in the U.S. will benefit the interest of the United States;
- Specialized EB-5 intake teams will be created to handle EB-5 adjudications and EB-5 regional center applicants will be able to communicate with the intake teams directly through email;
- An expert decision board will be convened to make decisions on EB-5 application;
- Re-emphasize that self-employed aliens may apply for H-1B visa as long as the aliens can show that their own company can exercise control over them, such as having a separate board that can hire, pay, or fire the aliens.
These changes will certainly make it easier and faster for investors to apply for different kind of non-immigrant and immigrant work visas. Hopefully, USCIS will be able to articulate a specific plan to implement these changes in the next 30 days as promised by USCIS Director Alejandro Mayorkas.
Disclaimer: Information included in this page does not constitute as legal advice and receipt of this page does not establish attorney-client relationship. For specific inquiries, please call my office and schedule an appointment.
- EB-1類別中跨國公司行政人員及經理(E13)及EB-5投資移民的申請人可申請特快服務 ；
- 外商可以透過EB-2中的國家利益豁免(National Interest Waiver; NIW)類別申請綠咭。外商必須從事需要高等學歷的專業或本身擁有特殊的才能，而且從事的工作會為全國的經濟帶來益處；
- 成立數個專門負責 EB-5 案件的隊伍，而EB-5 投資中心的申請人可以以電郵方式與這些隊伍溝通；
- 成立專家小組，專門負責批核EB-5申請；
- 重申自雇人士只要能夠證明其公司可以對他擁有控制權，如有獨立的董事會可以僱用、支付薪水、及罷免申請人，那麼申請人仍有資格申請H-1B 簽證。
這些改革將使投資者能更容易和快捷地得到各種不同的非移民和移民工作簽證。希望誠如移民局局長梅奧卡斯所說，關於這些改革的具體實施計劃可以在30天內出爐。
以上資料僅供參考之用，並非法律意見。如有個別問題，請致電本所查詢。
7/28/2011
E-Filing 網上申請
USCIS announced that it would start accepting I-539 application electronically in December 2011. By creating a username and password, an applicant can fill out I-539 and submit evidence online. In 2012, applicants of some non-immigrant benefits, such as I-131 and I-765, may file those applications electronically. In latter stages, applicants of immigrant benefits will be able to do the same. USCIS has posted a prototype video online if you are interested to learn more about filing an application online in the future.
Disclaimer: Information included in this page does not constitute as legal advice and receipt of this page does not establish attorney-client relationship. For specific inquiries, please call my office and schedule an appointment.
USCIS宣佈，在2011年12月開始，I-539表格的申請人可以在網上遞交申請。申請人只要建立一個網上帳戶，便能在網上填好I-539表格和遞交證據。 在2012年，一些非移民表格的申請人，例如I-131和I-765，也可以在網上提出那些申請。 在不久的將來，移民表格的申請人亦可以在網上遞交申請。USCIS在網上張貼了一段關於占電子申請的錄影，有興趣的您亦不妨看看。
以上資料僅供參考之用，並非法律意見。如有個別問題，請致電本所查詢。
Disclaimer: Information included in this page does not constitute as legal advice and receipt of this page does not establish attorney-client relationship. For specific inquiries, please call my office and schedule an appointment.
USCIS宣佈，在2011年12月開始，I-539表格的申請人可以在網上遞交申請。申請人只要建立一個網上帳戶，便能在網上填好I-539表格和遞交證據。 在2012年，一些非移民表格的申請人，例如I-131和I-765，也可以在網上提出那些申請。 在不久的將來，移民表格的申請人亦可以在網上遞交申請。USCIS在網上張貼了一段關於占電子申請的錄影，有興趣的您亦不妨看看。
以上資料僅供參考之用，並非法律意見。如有個別問題，請致電本所查詢。
7/21/2011
Diversity Visa Fraud 多元化簽證計劃詐騙
On July 15 (last Friday), the State Department drew the winners for the Diversity Visa Program for fiscal year 2012 again after a hiccup back in May. Unfortunately, some dishonest people are trying to take advantage of the American dream of millions of people. In fact, the problem is serious enough that USCIS warns against Lottery Visa Fraud in its official blog.
Here are a few things to remember about the Diversity Visa Program and or the so-called visa lottery:
First, the State Department does not send out email or postal mail to notify the winners. Instead, participants of the program need to go to the State Department's website to check whether they win.
Second, a participant must have entered the draw for a particular year in order to be drawn. For example, a one-time participant in the lottery held in FY 2007 will never get picked for FY 2012.
Third, if you are a citizen from a list of countries in which the U.S. has received a lot of immigrants from, you are ineligible to participate in the program. For example, if you are from India or Mainland China, you know you will not be a winner of the lottery because you are not qualified to participate at the first place.
Finally, winners of the lottery do not need to pay anything until they apply for an immigrant visa at the U.S. Consulate/embassy.
Therefore, if you have received any communication about you winning the lottery that runs afoul of the above principles, you can know for sure it is a scam and you should discard it.
Disclaimer: Information included in this page does not constitute as legal advice and receipt of this page does not establish attorney-client relationship. For specific inquiries, please call my office and schedule an appointment.
由於電腦於5月出錯，國務院在7月15日(上星期五)再次為2012年財政年度的多元化簽證計劃進行抽籤。不幸的是，某些不誠實的人利用成千上萬希望一圓美國夢的人來進行詐騙。 由於問題嚴重，美國移民局於其官方部落格對此提出警告。
關於多元化簽證計劃，有四點大家應該注意：
首先，參加者需要到國務院的網站檢查結果，國務院不會發出電子郵件或信函通知被抽中的幸運兒。
其次，參加者要參加了該年度的抽籤才會有機會被抽中。 例如，一個参加者只曾參加2007年財政年度的抽籤，他一定不會在2012年財政年度被抽中。
第三，如果你在一個美國主要移民來源的國家出生，你沒有資格参加此計劃。 例如，如果你是在印度或中國大陸出生，那麼你一定不會被抽中，因為你根本不能參加此計劃。
最後，被抽中的幸運兒在他們到美國領事館申請移民簽證時才需付款。
所以，如果你收到任何與上述有衝突的通信，你便可以知道它是假的。
以上資料僅供參考之用，並非法律意見。如有個別問題，請致電本所查詢。
Here are a few things to remember about the Diversity Visa Program and or the so-called visa lottery:
First, the State Department does not send out email or postal mail to notify the winners. Instead, participants of the program need to go to the State Department's website to check whether they win.
Second, a participant must have entered the draw for a particular year in order to be drawn. For example, a one-time participant in the lottery held in FY 2007 will never get picked for FY 2012.
Third, if you are a citizen from a list of countries in which the U.S. has received a lot of immigrants from, you are ineligible to participate in the program. For example, if you are from India or Mainland China, you know you will not be a winner of the lottery because you are not qualified to participate at the first place.
Finally, winners of the lottery do not need to pay anything until they apply for an immigrant visa at the U.S. Consulate/embassy.
Therefore, if you have received any communication about you winning the lottery that runs afoul of the above principles, you can know for sure it is a scam and you should discard it.
Disclaimer: Information included in this page does not constitute as legal advice and receipt of this page does not establish attorney-client relationship. For specific inquiries, please call my office and schedule an appointment.
由於電腦於5月出錯，國務院在7月15日(上星期五)再次為2012年財政年度的多元化簽證計劃進行抽籤。不幸的是，某些不誠實的人利用成千上萬希望一圓美國夢的人來進行詐騙。 由於問題嚴重，美國移民局於其官方部落格對此提出警告。
關於多元化簽證計劃，有四點大家應該注意：
首先，參加者需要到國務院的網站檢查結果，國務院不會發出電子郵件或信函通知被抽中的幸運兒。
其次，參加者要參加了該年度的抽籤才會有機會被抽中。 例如，一個参加者只曾參加2007年財政年度的抽籤，他一定不會在2012年財政年度被抽中。
第三，如果你在一個美國主要移民來源的國家出生，你沒有資格参加此計劃。 例如，如果你是在印度或中國大陸出生，那麼你一定不會被抽中，因為你根本不能參加此計劃。
最後，被抽中的幸運兒在他們到美國領事館申請移民簽證時才需付款。
所以，如果你收到任何與上述有衝突的通信，你便可以知道它是假的。
以上資料僅供參考之用，並非法律意見。如有個別問題，請致電本所查詢。
7/12/2011
Immigrant Visa and Consular Processing 到領事館申請移民簽證
For most I-130, I-140, and I-526 applicants who live outside of the United States, they must apply for an immigrant visa (IV) to enter the U.S. after their application is approved. In the initial application of I-130/I-140.I-526, the applicant may specify which consulate the applicant would apply for an IV. Under 22 CFR §42.61(a), an applicant should apply for an IV with the Consulate that has jurisdiction over his or her residence. Usually this means the applicant's home country. If the applicant is currently working at a foreign country, an applicant may apply for an IV even though the applicant may not have a residency there. However, the Consulate in the third country may exercise discretion and refuse to process the IV.
After the I-130/I-140/I-526 application has been approved by USCIS, the application is forwarded to the National Visa Center (NVC). Usually the applicant will need to pay the document processing fee and submit the documents required for the particular kind of application. After NVC has reviewed the file, the applicant will receive a notice that specifies the day and time of the interview.
When attending an interview with a consulate officer, it is important to know the information included in the original I-130/I-140/I-526 application. For instance, an EB-5 applicant should be able to know the basics of his or her investment, such as the location, investment amount, etc. An I-130 applicant should be able to answer simple questions about the petitioner.
In short, an applicant should follow the directions sent from the NVC closely and be prepared to attend the IV interview. It would certainly be a pain if the applicant's IV application gets denied after going through the I-130/I-140/I-526 application process.
Disclaimer: Information included in this page does not constitute as legal advice and receipt of this page does not establish attorney-client relationship. For specific inquiries, please call my office and schedule an appointment.
多數居住在美國境外的I-130、I-140和I-526申請人都必須在他們的移民申請獲批後到領事館申請移民簽證(IV)進入美國。 在提交I-130/I-140/I-526申請的時候，申請人可以揀選在哪個領事館申請IV。22 CFR §42.61(a)規定申請人應該在他們居住地方所屬的領事館申請IV。 這通常是申請人的家鄉或祖國。 如果申請人在外地工作，即使申請人不在該地居住，申請人也可以在該地所屬的領事館申請IV。 然而，領事館有權行使酌情權而拒绝處理該申請人的IV申請。
在移民局審批准了I-130/I-140/I-526之後，申請會被送到全國簽證中心(NVC)。 通常申請人需要繳付文件處理費和遞交與申請有關的證明文件。 在NVC查核文件之後，申請人將收到關於到領事館面談的資料，如日期、時間及地址。 與領事面談的時候，申請人應熟悉I-130/I-140/I-526申請書中的資料。 例如， EB-5申請人應能回答關於他們投資項目的基本資料，例如地點、投資額等等。 I-130申請人應該能回答關於替他提交申請的家人的簡單問題。
簡而言之，申請人應該小心跟從NVC的指示及到領事館面談前做好準備。如果申請人在通過移民局I-130/I-140/I-526的審批之後無法獲得IV來美，就真是功虧一簣了。
以上資料僅供參考之用，並非法律意見。如有個別問題，請致電本所查詢。
After the I-130/I-140/I-526 application has been approved by USCIS, the application is forwarded to the National Visa Center (NVC). Usually the applicant will need to pay the document processing fee and submit the documents required for the particular kind of application. After NVC has reviewed the file, the applicant will receive a notice that specifies the day and time of the interview.
When attending an interview with a consulate officer, it is important to know the information included in the original I-130/I-140/I-526 application. For instance, an EB-5 applicant should be able to know the basics of his or her investment, such as the location, investment amount, etc. An I-130 applicant should be able to answer simple questions about the petitioner.
In short, an applicant should follow the directions sent from the NVC closely and be prepared to attend the IV interview. It would certainly be a pain if the applicant's IV application gets denied after going through the I-130/I-140/I-526 application process.
Disclaimer: Information included in this page does not constitute as legal advice and receipt of this page does not establish attorney-client relationship. For specific inquiries, please call my office and schedule an appointment.
多數居住在美國境外的I-130、I-140和I-526申請人都必須在他們的移民申請獲批後到領事館申請移民簽證(IV)進入美國。 在提交I-130/I-140/I-526申請的時候，申請人可以揀選在哪個領事館申請IV。22 CFR §42.61(a)規定申請人應該在他們居住地方所屬的領事館申請IV。 這通常是申請人的家鄉或祖國。 如果申請人在外地工作，即使申請人不在該地居住，申請人也可以在該地所屬的領事館申請IV。 然而，領事館有權行使酌情權而拒绝處理該申請人的IV申請。
在移民局審批准了I-130/I-140/I-526之後，申請會被送到全國簽證中心(NVC)。 通常申請人需要繳付文件處理費和遞交與申請有關的證明文件。 在NVC查核文件之後，申請人將收到關於到領事館面談的資料，如日期、時間及地址。 與領事面談的時候，申請人應熟悉I-130/I-140/I-526申請書中的資料。 例如， EB-5申請人應能回答關於他們投資項目的基本資料，例如地點、投資額等等。 I-130申請人應該能回答關於替他提交申請的家人的簡單問題。
簡而言之，申請人應該小心跟從NVC的指示及到領事館面談前做好準備。如果申請人在通過移民局I-130/I-140/I-526的審批之後無法獲得IV來美，就真是功虧一簣了。
以上資料僅供參考之用，並非法律意見。如有個別問題，請致電本所查詢。
6/30/2011
Sophisticated Business Plans 詳細的計劃書
One common issue many potential immigrant investors and non-immigrant workers have to face is to write up a business plan that works. In order for an I-526 to be approved, the investor has to draw up a very sophisticated business plan that shows that the applicant's investment would actually work. Similarly, applicants for an E-2 visa or a L-1A visa under the new office provision also need to come up with a solid business plan. That begs the question: what kind of business plan do these applicants need?
It seems that USCIS like facts and statistics to back up claims. Therefore, whenever possible, try look for data that is published by the government, such as census and employment data. If official data is impossible to be obtained, find other data that is published by private companies and give proper citations to the source of the data. By doing so, it shows USCIS that the applicant is extremely serious about the business and a detailed business analysis has already been performed. That in turn will improve the chance of an approval.
Moreover, a business plan that has solid projections would be preferred. How the invested funds will be used, when and why a position is created, and the proposed salaries of the position should be explained and outlined.
The key thing to bear in mind for most situations is this: a renewal will needed to be filed down the road. If your initial business plan is lousy and unworkable, it may come back to haunt you when renewal comes!
Disclaimer: Information included in this page does not constitute as legal advice and receipt of this page does not establish attorney-client relationship. For specific inquiries, please call my office and schedule an appointment.
投資移民及非移民工作簽證的申請人常遇到的一個問題是如何草擬一份可行的工作計劃書。要I-526申請被批准，投資者必須草擬一份詳細的計劃書來證明申請人的投資項目是的確可行的。 同樣地，申請E-2簽證或L-1A新公司的簽證也需要一份周全的計劃書。 那麼，怎樣的計劃書才算得上是可行的呢？
移民局看起來喜歡有事實和統計支持的計劃書。 所以，若情況許可，嘗試找出由政府出版，例如人口調查和就業數據的資料。 如果無法獲得官方的數據，就應該嘗試找到由私人公司出版的其他數據，並且列出數據的來源。這樣做可以令移民局相信申請人對投資項目非常認真，並真的詳細研究過投資項目是否可行，從而增加申請獲批准的機會。
再者，計劃書中應有詳盡的預測，解釋和概述將怎麼使用投資的資金、工作職位為什麼及在何時會被創造、以及職位的建議薪金等。
要記住，在大多數情況下，簽證是需要續期的。 如果您最初的計劃書是粗淺和難以使用的話，當您要申請續期的時候，可能會為您帶來更大的煩惱!
以上資料僅供參考之用，並非法律意見。如有個別問題，請致電本所查詢。
It seems that USCIS like facts and statistics to back up claims. Therefore, whenever possible, try look for data that is published by the government, such as census and employment data. If official data is impossible to be obtained, find other data that is published by private companies and give proper citations to the source of the data. By doing so, it shows USCIS that the applicant is extremely serious about the business and a detailed business analysis has already been performed. That in turn will improve the chance of an approval.
Moreover, a business plan that has solid projections would be preferred. How the invested funds will be used, when and why a position is created, and the proposed salaries of the position should be explained and outlined.
The key thing to bear in mind for most situations is this: a renewal will needed to be filed down the road. If your initial business plan is lousy and unworkable, it may come back to haunt you when renewal comes!
Disclaimer: Information included in this page does not constitute as legal advice and receipt of this page does not establish attorney-client relationship. For specific inquiries, please call my office and schedule an appointment.
投資移民及非移民工作簽證的申請人常遇到的一個問題是如何草擬一份可行的工作計劃書。要I-526申請被批准，投資者必須草擬一份詳細的計劃書來證明申請人的投資項目是的確可行的。 同樣地，申請E-2簽證或L-1A新公司的簽證也需要一份周全的計劃書。 那麼，怎樣的計劃書才算得上是可行的呢？
移民局看起來喜歡有事實和統計支持的計劃書。 所以，若情況許可，嘗試找出由政府出版，例如人口調查和就業數據的資料。 如果無法獲得官方的數據，就應該嘗試找到由私人公司出版的其他數據，並且列出數據的來源。這樣做可以令移民局相信申請人對投資項目非常認真，並真的詳細研究過投資項目是否可行，從而增加申請獲批准的機會。
再者，計劃書中應有詳盡的預測，解釋和概述將怎麼使用投資的資金、工作職位為什麼及在何時會被創造、以及職位的建議薪金等。
要記住，在大多數情況下，簽證是需要續期的。 如果您最初的計劃書是粗淺和難以使用的話，當您要申請續期的時候，可能會為您帶來更大的煩惱!
以上資料僅供參考之用，並非法律意見。如有個別問題，請致電本所查詢。
6/24/2011
Maintain Your Green Card
One of the most common questions investors and other green card holders ask is: how many days in a year do I need to be in the U.S. in order to keep my green card? Unfortunately, there is no clear cut answer to the question.
First, INA §101(a)(13)(C)(ii) states that a permanent resident shall not be deemed as seeking admission to the U.S. unless the permanent resident "has been absent from the United States for a continuous period in excess of 180 days." What this means is a permanent resident may be deemed inadmissible and denied entry to the U.S. if he or she falls under one of the inadmissibility categories during his or her absence. In that sense, a green card can be lost for being outside the U.S. for more than 180 days.
Second, 8 C.F.R. §211.1(a)(2) states that a permanent resident may not return to the U.S. with his or her green card alone if the permanent resident has been absent from the U.S. for more than one year. The resident either has to present a reentry-permit (I-131) or a SB-1 visa issued by the consulate along with the green card to apply for admission. Thus, without receiving a re-entry permit before leaving the U.S. for more than one year, the permanent resident may lose his or her status to return to the U.S.
Third, the State Department, in its Foreign Affairs Manual (FAM), focuses on the intent and actions of the alien rather than the time outside the U.S. to decide whether an alien has abandoned his or her green card status. The State Department lists the following documents to support the claim that a permanent resident has "an unrelinquished residence" in the U.S. and whether a SB-1 visa should be issued. This list can be found in 9 FAM 42.22 N1.3.:
(1) A driver's license issued within the past year and reflecting the same address as that recorded on the Form I-94, Arrival and Departure Record;
(2) The name and address of the U.S. employer and evidence that a salary has been paid within a reasonable period of time;
(3) Evidence of children’s enrollment in a U.S. school;
(4) Evidence that extended visit abroad was caused by unforeseen circumstances;
(5) Evidence of a predetermined termination date; i.e., graduation, employment contract expiration, etc.;
(6) Evidence of having filed U.S. income tax return(s) for the past year(s); and
(7) Evidence of property ownership, whether real or personal, in the United States.
Moreover, the State Department also states that the following factors show that a permanent resident has abandoned his/her permanent residency and should be taken into account (9 FAM 42.22 N1.4) (emphasis added):
(1) Extended or frequent absences from the United States;
(2) Disposition of property or business affiliations in the United States;
(3) Family, property, or business ties abroad;
(4) Conduct while outside the United States such as, employment by a foreign employer, voting in foreign elections, running for political office in a foreign country, etc.; or
(5) Failure to file U.S. income tax returns.
Although the above factors are used by the State Department in issuing SB-1 visa for returning resident alien, there is no reason to believe that USCIS and CBP officers would not use these factors to consider the green card status of an alien. The fact that extended or frequent absences from the U.S. is a factor showing abandonment of permanent residency is particularly worrying.
In sum, there is an absolute answer to the question of how long an alien can be outside the U.S. before losing his or her green card status. The best answer one can give is: avoid unnecessary extended foreign travels as much as possible and when such travels are necessary, get a re-entry permit before leaving. On the other hand, the permanent resident should continue to pay taxes and maintain properties in the U.S. to maximize his or her tie to the U.S.
Disclaimer: Information included in this page does not constitute as legal advice and receipt of this page does not establish attorney-client relationship. For specific inquiries, please call my office and schedule an appointment.
投資者和其他持綠卡者常問的其中一個問題是： 在一年中我需要有多少天留在美國才能保住我的綠卡？ 不幸地，這個問題並沒有一個絕對的答案。
首先，INA §101(a)(13)(c)(ii)闡明，除非永久居民連續180天在美國境外，否則永久居民在入境時不會被視作重新申請進入美國。換句話說，如果永久居民在美國境外時墮入其中一個被禁止入境的類別，在美國境外超過180天會可能令該永久居民的入境申請被拒，失去綠卡資格。
其次， 8 C.F.R. §211.1(a)(2)闡明，如果永久居民離開美國超過一年，他們不可以單靠他們的綠卡進入美國。永久居民必須在入境時出示「再入境許可證」(reentry permit)或領事館發出的SB-1簽證才能申請入境。 因此，離開美國超過一年，永久居民也可能失去回美的資格。
第三，美國國務院在其外交事務指南(FAM)中提到，在決定永久居民是否放棄了他們的綠卡身份，領事應集中於永久居民的意圖和行為而非在美國以外的時間。國務院在9 FAM 42.22 N1.3列出以下因素來證明永久居民在美有「無意圖放棄的家」 (unlinquished residence)：
(1) 在過去一年簽發的駕駛執照上的地址與I-94出入境記錄上的地址相符；
(2) 永久居民在美國的僱主的姓名和地址以及在一個合理的時間内曾發放薪水；
(3) 永久居民的孩子在美國學校註冊及就讀；
(4) 永久居民需要長時間在美國境外是基於無法預見的情况；
(5) 離境前有「預定的終止日期」; 如畢業、就業的合同期限等等；
(6) 在過去有在美國繳税；以及
(7) 在美國擁有資產及物業。
國務院在9 FAM 42.22 N1.也列出下列因素為考慮永久居民放棄其身份的證明 ：
(1) 經常或長時間離開美國；
(2)售賣其在美國的物業或生意;
(3)在海外有家庭、物業或者生意;
(4)其在美國境外的行為，包括在美國境外為外國僱主工作，在外國選舉中投票，在外國參加競選或者
(5)沒有在美國繳税。
雖然上述是國務院考慮簽發SB-1簽證的因素，但是沒有理由相信移民局和邊境官員不會使用這些因素考慮永久居民的身份。總之，永久居民應盡量避免多餘或長時間在美國境外的旅遊，而當這些旅遊是必要的時候，應在離開之前申請「再入境許可證」。另一方面，永久居民應該繼續在美國繳税和持有物業，強化他們在美國的聯繫。
以上資料僅供參考之用，並非法律意見。如有個別問題，請致電本所查詢。
First, INA §101(a)(13)(C)(ii) states that a permanent resident shall not be deemed as seeking admission to the U.S. unless the permanent resident "has been absent from the United States for a continuous period in excess of 180 days." What this means is a permanent resident may be deemed inadmissible and denied entry to the U.S. if he or she falls under one of the inadmissibility categories during his or her absence. In that sense, a green card can be lost for being outside the U.S. for more than 180 days.
Second, 8 C.F.R. §211.1(a)(2) states that a permanent resident may not return to the U.S. with his or her green card alone if the permanent resident has been absent from the U.S. for more than one year. The resident either has to present a reentry-permit (I-131) or a SB-1 visa issued by the consulate along with the green card to apply for admission. Thus, without receiving a re-entry permit before leaving the U.S. for more than one year, the permanent resident may lose his or her status to return to the U.S.
Third, the State Department, in its Foreign Affairs Manual (FAM), focuses on the intent and actions of the alien rather than the time outside the U.S. to decide whether an alien has abandoned his or her green card status. The State Department lists the following documents to support the claim that a permanent resident has "an unrelinquished residence" in the U.S. and whether a SB-1 visa should be issued. This list can be found in 9 FAM 42.22 N1.3.:
(1) A driver's license issued within the past year and reflecting the same address as that recorded on the Form I-94, Arrival and Departure Record;
(2) The name and address of the U.S. employer and evidence that a salary has been paid within a reasonable period of time;
(3) Evidence of children’s enrollment in a U.S. school;
(4) Evidence that extended visit abroad was caused by unforeseen circumstances;
(5) Evidence of a predetermined termination date; i.e., graduation, employment contract expiration, etc.;
(6) Evidence of having filed U.S. income tax return(s) for the past year(s); and
(7) Evidence of property ownership, whether real or personal, in the United States.
Moreover, the State Department also states that the following factors show that a permanent resident has abandoned his/her permanent residency and should be taken into account (9 FAM 42.22 N1.4) (emphasis added):
(1) Extended or frequent absences from the United States;
(2) Disposition of property or business affiliations in the United States;
(3) Family, property, or business ties abroad;
(4) Conduct while outside the United States such as, employment by a foreign employer, voting in foreign elections, running for political office in a foreign country, etc.; or
(5) Failure to file U.S. income tax returns.
Although the above factors are used by the State Department in issuing SB-1 visa for returning resident alien, there is no reason to believe that USCIS and CBP officers would not use these factors to consider the green card status of an alien. The fact that extended or frequent absences from the U.S. is a factor showing abandonment of permanent residency is particularly worrying.
In sum, there is an absolute answer to the question of how long an alien can be outside the U.S. before losing his or her green card status. The best answer one can give is: avoid unnecessary extended foreign travels as much as possible and when such travels are necessary, get a re-entry permit before leaving. On the other hand, the permanent resident should continue to pay taxes and maintain properties in the U.S. to maximize his or her tie to the U.S.
Disclaimer: Information included in this page does not constitute as legal advice and receipt of this page does not establish attorney-client relationship. For specific inquiries, please call my office and schedule an appointment.
投資者和其他持綠卡者常問的其中一個問題是： 在一年中我需要有多少天留在美國才能保住我的綠卡？ 不幸地，這個問題並沒有一個絕對的答案。
首先，INA §101(a)(13)(c)(ii)闡明，除非永久居民連續180天在美國境外，否則永久居民在入境時不會被視作重新申請進入美國。換句話說，如果永久居民在美國境外時墮入其中一個被禁止入境的類別，在美國境外超過180天會可能令該永久居民的入境申請被拒，失去綠卡資格。
其次， 8 C.F.R. §211.1(a)(2)闡明，如果永久居民離開美國超過一年，他們不可以單靠他們的綠卡進入美國。永久居民必須在入境時出示「再入境許可證」(reentry permit)或領事館發出的SB-1簽證才能申請入境。 因此，離開美國超過一年，永久居民也可能失去回美的資格。
第三，美國國務院在其外交事務指南(FAM)中提到，在決定永久居民是否放棄了他們的綠卡身份，領事應集中於永久居民的意圖和行為而非在美國以外的時間。國務院在9 FAM 42.22 N1.3列出以下因素來證明永久居民在美有「無意圖放棄的家」 (unlinquished residence)：
(1) 在過去一年簽發的駕駛執照上的地址與I-94出入境記錄上的地址相符；
(2) 永久居民在美國的僱主的姓名和地址以及在一個合理的時間内曾發放薪水；
(3) 永久居民的孩子在美國學校註冊及就讀；
(4) 永久居民需要長時間在美國境外是基於無法預見的情况；
(5) 離境前有「預定的終止日期」; 如畢業、就業的合同期限等等；
(6) 在過去有在美國繳税；以及
(7) 在美國擁有資產及物業。
國務院在9 FAM 42.22 N1.也列出下列因素為考慮永久居民放棄其身份的證明 ：
(1) 經常或長時間離開美國；
(2)售賣其在美國的物業或生意;
(3)在海外有家庭、物業或者生意;
(4)其在美國境外的行為，包括在美國境外為外國僱主工作，在外國選舉中投票，在外國參加競選或者
(5)沒有在美國繳税。
雖然上述是國務院考慮簽發SB-1簽證的因素，但是沒有理由相信移民局和邊境官員不會使用這些因素考慮永久居民的身份。總之，永久居民應盡量避免多餘或長時間在美國境外的旅遊，而當這些旅遊是必要的時候，應在離開之前申請「再入境許可證」。另一方面，永久居民應該繼續在美國繳税和持有物業，強化他們在美國的聯繫。
以上資料僅供參考之用，並非法律意見。如有個別問題，請致電本所查詢。
6/08/2011
EB-5 Investment Fever 投資熱
As recent news articles have indicated, the number of applicants for EB-5 has steadily increased. EB-5 applicants can choose to invest in his or own own business or choose to invest in a regional center that has been approved by USCIS. The general requirement is to invest at least 1 million. However, the required amount is cut into half if the investment is in a rural area or a targeted employment area (TEA) where the unemployment rate is 150% of the national rate. One common misconception is that EB-5 applicants only need to invest $500,000 in regional centers. The reality is that only when a regional center is located in a rural area or a TEA can the required amount be lower from 1 million to $500,000.
In the next few posts, some common questions regarding EB-5 and green card in general will be addressed. Stay tuned!
Disclaimer: Information included in this page does not constitute as legal advice and receipt of this page does not establish attorney-client relationship. For specific inquiries, please call my office and schedule an appointment.
最近不少新聞報導提到EB-5的申請人數目穩步上揚。 EB-5能選擇投資在自己的生意或已經得到移民局批准的區域中心。 一般來說，EB-5的投資款項不能低於一百萬美元。 然而，如果EB-5申請人的投資項目位於人口稀少或失業率為全國失業率150%的地方(TEA)，那麼投資下限會調低到五十萬美元。 很多人誤以為區域中心的投資下限也是五十萬美元，但實際上只有位於人口稀少或TEA的區域中心才是這樣。 在之後的幾篇網誌，我們會探討一些關於EB-5和綠卡的常見問題。 請大家密切留意!
以上資料僅供參考之用，並非法律意見。如有個別問題，請致電本所查詢。
In the next few posts, some common questions regarding EB-5 and green card in general will be addressed. Stay tuned!
Disclaimer: Information included in this page does not constitute as legal advice and receipt of this page does not establish attorney-client relationship. For specific inquiries, please call my office and schedule an appointment.
最近不少新聞報導提到EB-5的申請人數目穩步上揚。 EB-5能選擇投資在自己的生意或已經得到移民局批准的區域中心。 一般來說，EB-5的投資款項不能低於一百萬美元。 然而，如果EB-5申請人的投資項目位於人口稀少或失業率為全國失業率150%的地方(TEA)，那麼投資下限會調低到五十萬美元。 很多人誤以為區域中心的投資下限也是五十萬美元，但實際上只有位於人口稀少或TEA的區域中心才是這樣。 在之後的幾篇網誌，我們會探討一些關於EB-5和綠卡的常見問題。 請大家密切留意!
以上資料僅供參考之用，並非法律意見。如有個別問題，請致電本所查詢。
5/18/2011
3/18/2011
Tax Return 報税
As the deadline for filing tax return is around the corner, please remember that you have the responsibility to file a return form with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and state government by April 15 if you have worked in the U.S. or received interests in your investment. Generally, all green card holders and naturalized citizens need to file a return as a resident. However, the fact that a person does not have a green card does not mean he/she should file a return as an alien. Instead, that depends on whether the person met the substantial presence test in the previous tax year. You should talk a qualified tax accountant or adviser if you are unsure about your status as a taxpayer.
Disclaimer: Information included in this page does not constitute as legal advice and receipt of this page does not establish attorney-client relationship. For specific inquiries, please call my office and schedule an appointment.
報税的最後期限將至，如果您去年曾在美國工作或從投資獲利，請切記您有責任在4月15日或之前將稅表遞交到聯邦及州政府的稅務局。 通常綠卡持有人和入了美國籍的公民需要以居民身份報稅。 然而，沒有綠卡並不等如您能以外國人身份遞交稅表。 納稅人是否需要以外國人身份報稅取決於上一年度有多少時間留在美國。 如果您對您的納稅人身份有疑問，您應該跟一位合資格的會計師或税務顧問查詢。
以上資料僅供參考之用，並非法律意見。如有個別問題，請致電本所查詢。
Disclaimer: Information included in this page does not constitute as legal advice and receipt of this page does not establish attorney-client relationship. For specific inquiries, please call my office and schedule an appointment.
報税的最後期限將至，如果您去年曾在美國工作或從投資獲利，請切記您有責任在4月15日或之前將稅表遞交到聯邦及州政府的稅務局。 通常綠卡持有人和入了美國籍的公民需要以居民身份報稅。 然而，沒有綠卡並不等如您能以外國人身份遞交稅表。 納稅人是否需要以外國人身份報稅取決於上一年度有多少時間留在美國。 如果您對您的納稅人身份有疑問，您應該跟一位合資格的會計師或税務顧問查詢。
以上資料僅供參考之用，並非法律意見。如有個別問題，請致電本所查詢。
3/10/2011
2011 April Visa Bulletin 2011年4月的簽證公報
According to the April 2011 Visa Bulletin, the biggest losers this time will be applicants under the F1 category, i.e., unmarried children of U.S. citizens.that are over 21 years old. The priority date of this group retrogresses for 8 months for applicants born in China and India and the rest of the world except Mexico and the Phillippines. Other than that, the priority date for most categories either remain the same or progress from a few weeks to a few months.
Disclaimer: Information included in this page does not constitute as legal advice and receipt of this page does not establish attorney-client relationship. For specific inquiries, please call my office and schedule an appointment.
2011年4月的簽證公報對大部份F1的移民簽證申請人是一則壞消息：中國、印度、及世界各地(除墨西哥及菲律賓)申請人的優先日期倒退八個月到2004年5月。其餘各類別的優先日期皆停留不動或向前進了數星期而已。
以上資料僅供參考之用，並非法律意見。如有個別問題，請致電本所查詢。
Disclaimer: Information included in this page does not constitute as legal advice and receipt of this page does not establish attorney-client relationship. For specific inquiries, please call my office and schedule an appointment.
2011年4月的簽證公報對大部份F1的移民簽證申請人是一則壞消息：中國、印度、及世界各地(除墨西哥及菲律賓)申請人的優先日期倒退八個月到2004年5月。其餘各類別的優先日期皆停留不動或向前進了數星期而已。
以上資料僅供參考之用，並非法律意見。如有個別問題，請致電本所查詢。
3/01/2011
New Filing Address for AR-11 and AR-11SR 遞交AR-11 或 AR-11SR表格的新地址
USCIS announced this morning that from 3/15/2011, all AR-11 or AR-11SR have to be filed at the following new address:
DHS/USCIS
Harrisonburg File Storage Facility
Attn: AR-11
1344 Pleasants Drive
Harrisonburg, VA 22801
All non-immigrants (such as students or H-1B workers) and resident aliens are supposed to file an AR-11 or AR-11SR when they have moved. It is free to file the form. Therefore, if you plan to move during summer, please beware of this change of filing location.
Disclaimer: Information included in this page does not constitute as legal advice and receipt of this page does not establish attorney-client relationship. For specific inquiries, please call my office and schedule an appointment.
移民局宣佈由2011年3月15日開始，所有AR-11 或 AR-11SR表格應遞交到下列的新地址：
DHS/USCIS
Harrisonburg File Storage Facility
Attn: AR-11
1344 Pleasants Drive
Harrisonburg, VA 22801
所有非移民(如學生及H-1B工作者)在每次搬家後都應遞交 AR-11 or AR-11SR。這兩份表格都是免費的。所以如果你打算在夏天搬家，就應注意這個新的地址。
以上資料僅供參考之用，並非法律意見。如有個別問題，請致電本所查詢。
DHS/USCIS
Harrisonburg File Storage Facility
Attn: AR-11
1344 Pleasants Drive
Harrisonburg, VA 22801
All non-immigrants (such as students or H-1B workers) and resident aliens are supposed to file an AR-11 or AR-11SR when they have moved. It is free to file the form. Therefore, if you plan to move during summer, please beware of this change of filing location.
Disclaimer: Information included in this page does not constitute as legal advice and receipt of this page does not establish attorney-client relationship. For specific inquiries, please call my office and schedule an appointment.
移民局宣佈由2011年3月15日開始，所有AR-11 或 AR-11SR表格應遞交到下列的新地址：
DHS/USCIS
Harrisonburg File Storage Facility
Attn: AR-11
1344 Pleasants Drive
Harrisonburg, VA 22801
所有非移民(如學生及H-1B工作者)在每次搬家後都應遞交 AR-11 or AR-11SR。這兩份表格都是免費的。所以如果你打算在夏天搬家，就應注意這個新的地址。
以上資料僅供參考之用，並非法律意見。如有個別問題，請致電本所查詢。
2/16/2011
New Employment Authorization and Advance Parole Card 新的工作及回美卡
Last week USCIS announced that it will issue a new card that serves as both work authorization and advance parole to adjustment of status applicants who file their I-131 and I-765 applications concurrently with or after filing their I-485 application. In the past, applicants of adjustment of status will receive a work authorization card and a separate piece of paper that serves as a proof of advance parole if they choose to file an I-131 and an I-765. Specifically, on the face of the work authorization card, there is a statement that says that the card is not valid for reentry purposes. The issuance of this new card will allow adjustment of status applicants to carry one card for work and for reentry to the country after going overseas for a short period of time. For some common questions and answers about this new card, please refer to the link Questions and Answers for the new Employment Authorization and Advance Parole Card on the website of USCIS.
Disclaimer: Information included in this page does not constitute as legal advice and receipt of this page does not establish attorney-client relationship. For specific inquiries, please call my office and schedule an appointment.
上星期移民局宣佈他們將會發出新的工作及回美卡予在申請調整身份時或之後提交I-131 及 I-765表格的申請人。在此之前，申請人會分別獲得一張工作卡及一張回美紙，而且在工作卡上通常會附有「此卡不適用於回國用途」此類的字眼。現在申請人得到這張二合一的新卡之後，會發現工作卡上附有「可用作回美卡」的字眼，以後在短暫離開美國後不再需要另外帶一張回美紙才能入境，十分方便。
以上資料僅供參考之用，並非法律意見。如有個別問題，請致電本所查詢。
Disclaimer: Information included in this page does not constitute as legal advice and receipt of this page does not establish attorney-client relationship. For specific inquiries, please call my office and schedule an appointment.
上星期移民局宣佈他們將會發出新的工作及回美卡予在申請調整身份時或之後提交I-131 及 I-765表格的申請人。在此之前，申請人會分別獲得一張工作卡及一張回美紙，而且在工作卡上通常會附有「此卡不適用於回國用途」此類的字眼。現在申請人得到這張二合一的新卡之後，會發現工作卡上附有「可用作回美卡」的字眼，以後在短暫離開美國後不再需要另外帶一張回美紙才能入境，十分方便。
以上資料僅供參考之用，並非法律意見。如有個別問題，請致電本所查詢。
March 2011 Visa Bulletin 2011年3月的簽證公報
The March 2011 Visa Bulletin brings more bad news to most 2A applicants: except for applicants that were born in Mexico, the priority date for all other F2A applicants retrogressed one more year and visa numbers will only be available to applicants who have a priority date on or before January 1, 2007 in March 2011.
Disclaimer: Information included in this page does not constitute as legal advice and receipt of this page does not establish attorney-client relationship. For specific inquiries, please call my office and schedule an appointment.
2011年3月的簽證公報對大部份F2A的移民簽證申請人又是一則壞消息：除了在墨西哥出生的申請人外，其餘的申請人的優先日期再倒退一年到2007年1月。
Disclaimer: Information included in this page does not constitute as legal advice and receipt of this page does not establish attorney-client relationship. For specific inquiries, please call my office and schedule an appointment.
2011年3月的簽證公報對大部份F2A的移民簽證申請人又是一則壞消息：除了在墨西哥出生的申請人外，其餘的申請人的優先日期再倒退一年到2007年1月。
以上資料僅供參考之用，並非法律意見。如有個別問題，請致電本所查詢。
1/24/2011
H-1B Cap Count
According to USCIS, as of January 21, 62,800 H-1B cap-subject petitions have been receipted and 20,000 H-1B petitions from aliens who have an advanced degree have been receipted. So if you want to change your status to H-1B in this fiscal year, you need to act fast!
Disclaimer: Information included in this page does not constitute as legal advice and receipt of this page does not establish attorney-client relationship. For specific inquiries, please call my office and schedule an appointment.
Disclaimer: Information included in this page does not constitute as legal advice and receipt of this page does not establish attorney-client relationship. For specific inquiries, please call my office and schedule an appointment.
1/20/2011
February 2011 Visa Bulletin 2011年2月的簽證公報
According to the February 2011 Visa Bulletin, the priority dates for F1, F2A, and F2B applicants that were born outside of Mainland China, Dominican Republic, India, Mexico, and the Philippines are the same as dates released in January 2011. Priority dates for F3 and F4 applicants born outside of those five countries retrogress for one year, i.e., Jan 1, 2001 and Jan 1, 2000 respectively.
Disclaimer: Information included in this page does not constitute as legal advice and receipt of this page does not establish attorney-client relationship. For specific inquiries, please call my office and schedule an appointment.
根據2011年2月的簽證公報，在中國大陸、多明尼加共和國、印度、墨西哥和菲律賓以外出生的F1、 F2A及F2B移民簽證申請人的優先日期皆停留在2011年1月的簽證公報所訂出的日期，沒有變動。F3和F4則倒後了一年，即2001年1月1日和2000年1月1日。
以上資料僅供參考之用，並非法律意見。如有個別問題，請致電本所查詢。
Disclaimer: Information included in this page does not constitute as legal advice and receipt of this page does not establish attorney-client relationship. For specific inquiries, please call my office and schedule an appointment.
根據2011年2月的簽證公報，在中國大陸、多明尼加共和國、印度、墨西哥和菲律賓以外出生的F1、 F2A及F2B移民簽證申請人的優先日期皆停留在2011年1月的簽證公報所訂出的日期，沒有變動。F3和F4則倒後了一年，即2001年1月1日和2000年1月1日。
以上資料僅供參考之用，並非法律意見。如有個別問題，請致電本所查詢。
1/07/2011
3 Common Misconceptions about Immigration Law 移民法3個常見的問題
The following are the 3 most common problems I have come across when I deal with clients and prospective clients in 2010:
1. The Burden of Proof
When a foreign national files a petition with the Citizenship and Immigration Services (CIS) or with the State Department, the applicant usually bears the burden of proof to show he/she meets the eligibility for a particular visa. If the applicant fails to provide sufficient evidence to show that he/she meets the requirements, the application will likely be denied. Because in many situations a denial is not reviewable, it is better to provide sufficient evidence at the first place to improve the chance of approval and minimize the chance of denial.
2. Minor Children and Immigration
Many people think that once a parent's immigrant visa petition is approved, the minor child can follow the parent to move to the U.S. Whether this is true depends on the immigrant visa category of the parent. For instance, if an applicant is a parent of a U.S. citizen who is over 21 years old, the applicant may not bring her minor children with her when she immigrates to the U.S.. In contrast, if an applicant is a sibling of a U.S. citizen, the applicant may bring her spouse and her minor children with her to the U.S. The difference is this: in the former case, the parent is an immediate relative and that category is not subject to a numerical quota; in the latter case, the parent is not an immediate relative and that category is subject to a numerical quota. Thus, foreign nationals who have minor children should plan carefully when they apply for an immigrant visa.
3. Effect of Marriage
Because a spouse of a U.S. citizen is considered as an immediate relative and is not subject to an annual numerical quota, many U.S. citizens think that the process of applying for a spouse is a piece of cake. However, a few important factors have to be considered. First and foremost is the venue of the marriage. If the marriage takes place outside the U.S., there is a presumption that the spouse of a U.S. citizen has the intent to immigrate and live in the United States. Therefore, the spouse may not be granted a NIV to come to the U.S. Even if a NIV is issued, CIS may think that the spouse had lied about his/her original intent when he/she applied for a NIV. Therefore, one should plan carefully before getting married.
Disclaimer: Information included in this page does not constitute as legal advice and receipt of this page does not establish attorney-client relationship. For specific inquiries, please call my office and schedule an appointment.
下列是我在2010年時與客人諮詢時常見的3個問題：
1. 舉證的責任
當一個外國人提出移民申請，申請人通常有提供證據的責任，證明他或她符合某一類簽證的資格。 如果申請人未能提供充分的證據，他或她的申請將被拒絕。 由於在許多情況下被拒絕的申請不能覆核，因此在申請的時候提供充分的證據能將被拒簽的機會減少。
2. 未成年兒童移民
許多人認為在父母移民簽證申請獲得批准後，未成年兒童可以順利成章跟隨父母移民到美國。 可是，父母的移民簽證類別對未成年兒童可否跟隨來美有決定性的影響。 例如，如果申請人是21歲美國公民的父母，當她移居到美國時，她未成年的孩子將無法同時獲得移民簽證來美。 相反，如果申請人是美國公民的兄弟姐妹，申請人的配偶和她未成年的孩子將會同時獲得移民簽證，可以舉家來美。兩者有何不同呢？在第一個例子中，父母是公民的真屬親人，而該類別是不受配額限制的; 在後一種情況下，父母不是公民的真屬親人，而該類別受配額限制。 因此，有未成年的孩子的外國人在他們申請移民簽證時應該小心計劃。
3. 與公民結婚
由於美國公民的配偶是真屬親人而不受配額限制，許多美國公民以為申請配偶的程序非常容易。 然而，申請人必須考慮一些重要的因素。 首要是婚禮的地點。 如果婚禮在美國境外舉行，移民局將假定美國公民的配偶有移居到美國的意圖，因此可能拒絕簽發非移民簽證給公民的配偶來美。即使獲簽發非移民簽證，移民局也許會認為配偶在申請非移民簽證時說謊或故意隱瞞他/她當初的意圖。 所以，美國公民應該在結婚之前小心地計劃。
以上資料僅供參考之用，並非法律意見。如有個別問題，請致電本所查詢。
1. The Burden of Proof
When a foreign national files a petition with the Citizenship and Immigration Services (CIS) or with the State Department, the applicant usually bears the burden of proof to show he/she meets the eligibility for a particular visa. If the applicant fails to provide sufficient evidence to show that he/she meets the requirements, the application will likely be denied. Because in many situations a denial is not reviewable, it is better to provide sufficient evidence at the first place to improve the chance of approval and minimize the chance of denial.
2. Minor Children and Immigration
Many people think that once a parent's immigrant visa petition is approved, the minor child can follow the parent to move to the U.S. Whether this is true depends on the immigrant visa category of the parent. For instance, if an applicant is a parent of a U.S. citizen who is over 21 years old, the applicant may not bring her minor children with her when she immigrates to the U.S.. In contrast, if an applicant is a sibling of a U.S. citizen, the applicant may bring her spouse and her minor children with her to the U.S. The difference is this: in the former case, the parent is an immediate relative and that category is not subject to a numerical quota; in the latter case, the parent is not an immediate relative and that category is subject to a numerical quota. Thus, foreign nationals who have minor children should plan carefully when they apply for an immigrant visa.
3. Effect of Marriage
Because a spouse of a U.S. citizen is considered as an immediate relative and is not subject to an annual numerical quota, many U.S. citizens think that the process of applying for a spouse is a piece of cake. However, a few important factors have to be considered. First and foremost is the venue of the marriage. If the marriage takes place outside the U.S., there is a presumption that the spouse of a U.S. citizen has the intent to immigrate and live in the United States. Therefore, the spouse may not be granted a NIV to come to the U.S. Even if a NIV is issued, CIS may think that the spouse had lied about his/her original intent when he/she applied for a NIV. Therefore, one should plan carefully before getting married.
Disclaimer: Information included in this page does not constitute as legal advice and receipt of this page does not establish attorney-client relationship. For specific inquiries, please call my office and schedule an appointment.
下列是我在2010年時與客人諮詢時常見的3個問題：
1. 舉證的責任
當一個外國人提出移民申請，申請人通常有提供證據的責任，證明他或她符合某一類簽證的資格。 如果申請人未能提供充分的證據，他或她的申請將被拒絕。 由於在許多情況下被拒絕的申請不能覆核，因此在申請的時候提供充分的證據能將被拒簽的機會減少。
2. 未成年兒童移民
許多人認為在父母移民簽證申請獲得批准後，未成年兒童可以順利成章跟隨父母移民到美國。 可是，父母的移民簽證類別對未成年兒童可否跟隨來美有決定性的影響。 例如，如果申請人是21歲美國公民的父母，當她移居到美國時，她未成年的孩子將無法同時獲得移民簽證來美。 相反，如果申請人是美國公民的兄弟姐妹，申請人的配偶和她未成年的孩子將會同時獲得移民簽證，可以舉家來美。兩者有何不同呢？在第一個例子中，父母是公民的真屬親人，而該類別是不受配額限制的; 在後一種情況下，父母不是公民的真屬親人，而該類別受配額限制。 因此，有未成年的孩子的外國人在他們申請移民簽證時應該小心計劃。
3. 與公民結婚
由於美國公民的配偶是真屬親人而不受配額限制，許多美國公民以為申請配偶的程序非常容易。 然而，申請人必須考慮一些重要的因素。 首要是婚禮的地點。 如果婚禮在美國境外舉行，移民局將假定美國公民的配偶有移居到美國的意圖，因此可能拒絕簽發非移民簽證給公民的配偶來美。即使獲簽發非移民簽證，移民局也許會認為配偶在申請非移民簽證時說謊或故意隱瞞他/她當初的意圖。 所以，美國公民應該在結婚之前小心地計劃。
以上資料僅供參考之用，並非法律意見。如有個別問題，請致電本所查詢。
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)