Learn More about Immigration Law

Get more out of your appointment with immigration lawyers in Philadelphia, PA

Learn all you can about immigration law, Philadelphia USCIS field offices and the immigration courts before your appointment with your attorney. Your understanding of the law helps your lawyer serve you better and empowers you to make sound decisions. The best immigration lawyers in Philadelphia can explain to you how regulations and policies affect your case.

What is the Immigration and Nationality Act

The Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) was enacted in 1952 to codify the existing immigration laws contained in the United States Code (U.S.C.). Since its creation, several amendments have been added to the INA to record changes in immigration policies. Most lawyers, judges and judicial decisions refer to the INA, although the U.S.C. is sometimes cited.

Understanding the Department of Homeland Security

Established in 2002, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) became an umbrella government department for several existing agencies, including:

• U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)
• U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)
• U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP)

Experienced immigration attorneys in Philadelphia interact regularly with officers from these agencies.

U.S. Department of State and consulates

U.S. Department of State (DOS) issues visas at consulates and embassies abroad. Consular officers rely on the DOS’s publication Foreign Affairs Manual (FAM) to learn about changes in policy and procedures. DOS also issues Human Rights Reports that are used to determine whether country conditions support an asylum claim or waiver of deportation. Your law firm’s consular processing unit remains current on FAM regulations and country condition reports, and communicates regularly with U.S. consulates and embassies to successfully resolve your case.

Department of Labor certification

The U.S. Department of Labor issues foreign labor certifications for applications involving certain types of employment immigration and temporary work visas. DOL approval is required in cases involving:

Retain Philadelphia immigration lawyers who can effectively guide businesses through the crucial DOL process and ensure compliance with recruitment efforts, pay and job requirements.

Contact an immigration attorney in Philadelphia for a free consultation

Call 267-244-1683 or use the online contact form for assistance with your immigration case from a qualified lawyer near you.