Los Angeles

1. Visa Applications

Overview

Visas are required for non-U.S. citizens to enter the United States for various purposes, such as work, study, or tourism. Los Angeles is home to a diverse immigrant population, and many services are available to assist with visa applications.

Types of Visas

• Non-Immigrant Visas: For temporary stays (e.g., B-1/B-2 for business/tourism, F-1 for students, H-1B for skilled workers).
• Immigrant Visas: For those seeking permanent residency (e.g., family-sponsored, employment-based).

Steps to Apply

1. Determine the type of visa you need.
2. Complete the appropriate application form (e.g., DS-160 for non-immigrant visas).
3. Pay the visa application fee (varies by visa type, typically $160 for non-immigrant visas).
4. Schedule an interview at the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate (outside the U.S.).
5. Attend the interview and provide supporting documents (e.g., passport, financial proof, invitation letters).

Processing Times

• Non-immigrant visas: Typically 2-4 weeks, but can vary.
• Immigrant visas: Several months to over a year, depending on the category.

Costs

• Non-immigrant visa fees: $160-$265 (varies by type).
• Immigrant visa fees: $325 for most categories, plus additional costs for medical exams and supporting documents.

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2. Green Card (Permanent Residency) Processing

Overview

A green card allows immigrants to live and work permanently in the U.S. There are several pathways to obtaining one, including family sponsorship, employment, asylum, or the Diversity Visa Lottery.

Steps to Apply

1. Determine eligibility (e.g., family sponsorship, employment, refugee/asylee status).
2. File the appropriate form:
   • Family-based: Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative).
   • Employment-based: Form I-140 (Immigrant Petition for Alien Worker).
   • Adjustment of Status: Form I-485 (if already in the U.S.).
3. Pay the application fee (see below).
4. Attend a biometrics appointment.
5. Attend an interview (if required).
6. Wait for USCIS approval.

Processing Times

• Family-based: 12 months to several years, depending on the relationship and country of origin.
• Employment-based: 1-3 years.
• Adjustment of Status: 8-14 months.

Costs

• Form I-485 (Adjustment of Status): $1,140 + $85 biometrics fee.
• Form I-130 (Family Petition): $535.
• Medical exam: $200-$500 (varies by provider).

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3. Naturalization (Becoming a U.S. Citizen)

Overview

Naturalization is the process by which a green card holder becomes a U.S. citizen.

Eligibility Requirements

• Be at least 18 years old.
• Have held a green card for at least 5 years (or 3 years if married to a U.S. citizen).
• Meet physical presence and continuous residence requirements.
• Demonstrate good moral character.
• Pass English and civics tests.

Steps to Apply

1. File Form N-400 (Application for Naturalization).
2. Pay the application fee ($640 + $85 biometrics fee).
3. Attend a biometrics appointment.
4. Complete the naturalization interview and tests.
5. Take the Oath of Allegiance.

Processing Times

• Typically 8-14 months.

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4. Asylum Applications

Overview

Asylum is available to individuals who fear persecution in their home country due to race, religion, nationality, political opinion, or membership in a particular social group.

Steps to Apply

1. File Form I-589 (Application for Asylum and for Withholding of Removal) within one year of arrival in the U.S.
2. Attend a biometrics appointment.
3. Attend an asylum interview.
4. Await a decision from USCIS.

Processing Times

• Initial interview: 6 months to several years (due to backlogs).
• Decision: Varies based on case complexity.

Costs

• No filing fee for Form I-589.

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5. Local USCIS Office Locations

Los Angeles Field Office

• Address: 300 N. Los Angeles Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012
• Services: Green card processing, naturalization interviews, biometrics appointments, and general inquiries.
• Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM (by appointment only).
• Website: USCIS Los Angeles Field Office

Other Nearby USCIS Offices

• Santa Ana Field Office: 34 Civic Center Plaza, Santa Ana, CA 92701.
• Application Support Centers (ASCs): For biometrics appointments, located throughout Los Angeles County.

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6. Local Resources for Immigrants

Legal Aid Organizations

1. Immigrant Defenders Law Center

   • Provides free legal representation for low-income immigrants.
   • Website: immdef.org

2. Public Counsel

   • Offers pro bono legal services for asylum seekers, DACA recipients, and other immigrants.
   • Website: publiccounsel.org

3. Central American Resource Center (CARECEN)

   • Specializes in immigration legal services, including green card and citizenship applications.
   • Website: carecen-la.org

Community Support Organizations

1. Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights (CHIRLA)

   • Provides legal services, advocacy, and community education.
   • Website: chirla.org

2. Asian Americans Advancing Justice - Los Angeles

   • Offers legal aid, citizenship workshops, and language-specific support for Asian immigrants.
   • Website: advancingjustice-la.org

3. Los Angeles Public Library (LAPL) Citizenship Resources

   • Free citizenship classes, English language learning, and access to immigration resources.
   • Website: lapl.org

Emergency Hotlines

• Immigration Legal Assistance Hotline: 1-888-624-4752
• National Immigration Law Center (NILC): Provides policy updates and resources for immigrants.

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7. Tips for Immigrants in Los Angeles

• Language Support: Many organizations offer services in Spanish, Chinese, Korean, and other languages.
• Know Your Rights: Familiarize yourself with your rights as an immigrant, especially during interactions with law enforcement or immigration officials.
• Stay Updated: Immigration laws and policies can change frequently. Regularly check the USCIS website or consult with a legal professional.

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This guide provides a detailed overview of immigration services and resources in Los Angeles. If you need further assistance, feel free to ask!