Consular processing is the method by which a foreign national obtains a visa – either to come to the United States temporarily or permanently – in an embassy or consulate abroad. Although the Citizenship and Immigration Service (CIS) handles aspects of some visas, the Department of State generally controls whether a visa is issued. Consular processing is the preferred method of becoming a legal permanent resident when a foreigner is living abroad, is ineligible to adjust status, or the person prefers processing at the consulate for strategic or convenience reasons. For example, the Dept. of State schedules interviews at some consular posts much faster than CIS schedules adjustment interviews.

Blandon Law prepares the applications and the supporting documents for consular interviews. In addition, the attorney instructs the foreign national on the proper method to answer the questions of the consular officer. For example, direct answers are best. If the consular officer does not approve the visa outright, Blandon Law is available to inquire with the headquarters in Washington, D.C.

Adjustment of status is a term used for becoming a legal permanent resident when the foreign national lives in the United States. That process is entirely controlled by CIS. Some persons are ineligible to adjust, including persons who were not legally admitted or persons who are not lawfully in the country. Of course, there are exceptions to every rule. Laws such as 245(i) permit foreigners to adjust status even if they entered illegally or remained without permission. Although these laws expired many years ago, some foreigners can still obtain the benefits as “grandfathered aliens.”

Ms. Blandon attends Immigration interviews with her clients, anywhere in the United States. Before a client enters the appointment, she knows what questions to expect, how to answer those questions and how to respond to the difficult issues of the case (such as multiple marriages or working without authorization). Until the client receives her green card, Blandon Law will help.