Q&A: Your Immigration Questions Answered

“Are some cities easier than others for adjustment of status?”
No — there’s no state or city that is consistently “easier” or “harder.” Processing outcomes depend on many factors, including the timing of your filing, your case type, your country of origin, and the specific immigration officer reviewing your file. Choose where to live based on what’s best for your life, not immigration speed.

“My work permit is outside normal processing and I submitted an inquiry. How long until I hear back?”
USCIS typically replies within 30–60 days after an outside-normal-processing inquiry, though you may still need to submit another inquiry if nothing changes.

“After applying for a fiancé visa, I’ve visited my partner multiple times. Can I send this new evidence to USCIS?”
Keep your additional relationship evidence for future stages. USCIS receives thousands of cases and supplemental mail often doesn’t make it into the correct file. You’ll have multiple opportunities later to submit updated proof.

“How long after NVC contacts me can I schedule my Montreal interview?”
For spouse visas: about six months from documentarily qualified (DQ) status to interview.
For fiancé visas: roughly four months from USCIS to NVC to post before scheduling is possible.

“If I have an approved I-130 and pending waiver but get detained, can I get bail?”
Usually, yes — you’ll have a bond hearing, but eligibility depends on your immigration history, criminal record, and other factors.

“Will filing an I-130 for an undocumented spouse send us to immigration court?”
There is a risk under the current administration, which has been detaining people even mid-process. If detained, you can typically continue your case in immigration court, but it will take longer and cost more. Megan emphasized: don’t let fear paralyze you from applying.

“What evidence is needed for an I-130 petition?”
It depends on the relationship. Tailor your evidence to the relationship type.

Marriage: legal marriage certificate + bona fide relationship proof.

Parent-child: birth certificates, adoption decrees, step-relationship proof.

“My fiancé visa has been DQ since May 2024 with no interview. Any hope?”
Yes — use the new Department of State IV Scheduling Estimator to check timelines for your post.

“Is there hope for fiancé visas from countries under a travel ban?”
Yes — options may include spouse visa conversion, requesting a national interest exception, or litigation.

“My naturalization case has been pending for over two years. What can I do?”
Consider filing a mandamus action (lawsuit) for unreasonable delay in federal court.

“Should I wait for a friendlier administration before applying for a spouse visa?”
No — delays are long already, and approvals are still happening daily. Waiting only pushes your timeline further.

“How can I protect myself when traveling internationally?”
Your risk depends on your immigration status and history. Lawful permanent residents generally travel without issue, but always understand potential risks before leaving.

“My husband has been waiting for a spouse visa interview in Mexico since February.”
Interviews there are taking about a year. Use the IV Estimator tool for more precise projections.

“What happens at a biometrics appointment for adjustment of status?”
They’ll take your fingerprints, photo, and basic biographic details — no interview questions at this stage.

Join Us for Weekly Live Immigration Chats

Have more questions about the U.S. immigration process for couples? Join Attorney Megan Pastrana and the team every Tuesday at 11 AM EST for our Weekly Live Immigration Attorney Chats. You can ask your questions live on YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn, and get personalized guidance for your case.

If you have any questions or concerns, we’re committed to supporting you every step of the way, helping you navigate the complexities of the immigration journey with confidence. If you find yourself overwhelmed or uncertain about the next steps, reach out for personalized advice tailored to your unique situation. And don’t hesitate to visit our resource center for more detailed guides to use on your journey through this process.