About This Course
Immigration law basically determines who may enter the United States, how long they may stay and when they must leave. Immigration law is under the control of Congress. Presidential power is limited to policies on refugees. Courts will not become involved in immigration issues unless constitutional rights are involved.
Immigration policies are implemented by granting or denying visas. Visas are issued by U.S. Consulates abroad. There are two principal types of visas: immigrant and nonimmigrant. Nonimmigrant visas are primary issued to tourists and temporary business visitors. Only a few categories of non-immigrant visas allow their holders work in the United States. Immigrant visas permit their holders to stay in the United States permanently and ultimately to apply for citizenship. An alien who has an immigrant visa is permitted to work in the United States. Congress limits the overall number of immigrant visas, and many immigrant visas are also subject to per-country caps. These numbers were established many years ago. A bill (known as the RAISE Act) has recently been introduced in Congress to change the current system but it is not likely to pass.
This CLE presentation will explore various options and vehicles available to foreign nationals desiring to come to the United States, particularly for purposes of employment, investment and to obtain lawful permanent residence (i.e. green cards).