Newsletter January - February 2003

SPECIAL REGISTRATION

As many already know, the INS has been calling nationals of certain countries to report for "Special Registration," or "NSEERS." The latest group (Indonesia, Egypt, Jordan, Kuwait and Bangladesh) is expected to be the last, according to a source at INS. This fourth group must register between February 24, 2003 and March 28, 2003. The first two groups (Afghanistan, Algeria, Bahrain, Eritrea, Iran, Iraq, Lebanon, Libya, Morocco, North Korea, Oman, Qatar, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, Tunisia, United Arab Emirates, and Yemen) have a deadline of February 7, 2003. The third group (Pakistan and Saudi Arabia) must register by February 21, 2003. Information about the program may be found on our website.

LATE AMNESTY
DEADLINE
JUNE 4, 2003
Call now to see whether you qualify!

NOTARIOS (IMMIGRATION CONSULTANTS): UNLAWFUL FOR COURT???

A recent decision from the California State Bar Court raises the question whether notarios (immigration consultants) may assist people appearing before the Immigration Court. If you or someone you know is considering using a notario/immigration consultant, be advised that they are only allowed to fill out forms, and not give legal advice (such as whether you qualify for a green card, what strategy to take in the case, and whether to apply for certain benefits from the INS) - only a lawyer may assist you in those decisions. Additionally, notarios/immigration consultants must carry a bond under California law.

FACTORS TO CONSIDER BEFORE FILING FOR A GREEN CARD

If you believe you are eligible for a green card, you should consider the following factors, because they may prevent you from obtaining the green card or, even worse, subject you to deportation/removal proceedings:

  • Criminal Record
  • Admitted Prior Drug Use
  • Prior Receipt of Public Assistance
  • Prior Deportation/Removal Order
  • Prior Voluntary Departure Order
  • Being sent back at the U.S. border
  • Illegal Status in the U.S. after April 1, 1997
  • Prior Immigration Violations

A consultation with this Office will help determine whether these or other factors may obstruct you or a family member from obtaining a green card.

New Law Helps "Children" Who Turn 21 Years Old

These children may still be eligible to receive green cards, even though they are too old.

Child Status Protection Act ~~ Call for details!

Christmas Raffle Winner!!
Congratulations to
**Celia Alarcon**
Prize: 19" Color Television

Do you plan on moving soon?
Don't forget to file a
CHANGE OF ADDRESS FORM
with the Immigration Court/Board of Immigration Appeals/INS!
You have five days to file the form once you move. Failure to notify all of them of your new address may result in a removal/deportation order.