Fairfax, VA Immigration Attorneys

Supportive Lawyers for Immigration Issues in Fairfax

Immigrating to the United States can be a stressful process, no matter your legal status. Trying to obtain a Green Card, attain citizenship, or avoid deportation often involves navigating complex laws, where small mistakes can have major consequences. To make sure that your interests are protected, consider reaching out to a Fairfax immigration attorney for help.

At Salvado Law Offices, we offer comprehensive legal services to people facing issues involving the U.S. immigration system, providing compassionate, knowledgeable assistance to people in need. Additionally, our Spanish-speaking attorneys can help bridge language gaps to clear up any misunderstandings while guiding clients through the legal process.

Green Cards and Lawful Permanent Residency

Lawful permanent residency, commonly known as holding a Green Card, grants non-citizens the right to live and work permanently in the United States. Most Green Cards are issued through family-based petitions—such as sponsorship by a U.S. citizen spouse, parent, or adult child—or through employment-based channels, which cover priority workers, professionals with advanced degrees, and individuals with extraordinary ability. Immediate Relative visas are given priority and are not subject to annual caps.

A Green Card carries important protections. Permanent residents may change jobs or start their own businesses, travel abroad with fewer restrictions, and petition for certain relatives to immigrate. Green Card holders enjoy due-process rights in removal proceedings and may access federal benefits, such as retirement and disability programs, once they meet eligibility requirements.

Attaining Citizenship in the United States

After maintaining lawful permanent residency for a set period—typically five years, or three years for those married to a U.S. citizen—an individual may apply for naturalization. Applicants must demonstrate continuous residence, physical presence, and good moral character. In addition, they must pass an English language exam assessing reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills, as well as a civics test covering U.S. history and government fundamentals.

The naturalization process begins with filing an application, attending a biometrics appointment, and completing an interview with a U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services officer. During the interview, applicants answer questions about their application and take the English and civics tests. Successful candidates take the Oath of Allegiance, formally becoming U.S. citizens with the right to vote, serve on juries, and hold federal jobs.

Our firm can assist with every step of the naturalization process, including all of the required paperwork, like Form N-400.

Deportation Defense in Fairfax

Individuals facing removal proceedings have several defenses available, depending on their immigration status and circumstances. Adjustment of status can halt a deportation case when an eligible resident applies to change from non-immigrant to permanent resident status, often through a family- or employment-based petition.

Asylum seekers who demonstrate a well-founded fear of persecution on account of race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group may obtain protection and work authorization while their claims are adjudicated. Other defenses include cancellation of removal for long-term residents who meet stringent residency and character requirements, and waivers for certain unlawful presence or criminal grounds. In some cases, individuals may qualify for visas that protect victims of certain crimes, like domestic violence.

Since immigration courts operate under complex procedural rules, early engagement with experienced counsel is essential. An attorney can prepare compelling evidence, file necessary applications, and represent clients at hearings, ensuring that every available avenue is pursued to prevent deportation.

At Salvado Law Offices, we provide strong representation for immigration matters, working to protect your rights and future.