ICE Detains Legal U.S. Resident of 50 Years, Sparking Debate on Immigration Enforcement and the Importance of Citizenship

By Mary Campbell A health worker who has lived legally in the United States for over five decades was detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) at a California airport, despite holding a valid green card. The incident has ignited renewed discussion about the legal vulnerabilities of long-term permanent residents and the crucial protections […]

Applying For a U.S. Passport as a Derivative Citizen Involves a Series of Steps to Establish and Document Your Citizenship Status

Applying For a U.S. Passport as a Derivative Citizen Involves a Series of Steps to Establish and Document Your Citizenship Status

Applying for a U.S. passport as a derivative citizen involves a series of steps to establish and document your citizenship status. Derivative citizenship refers to individuals who automatically acquired U.S. citizenship through their parents, typically under the Child Citizenship Act of 2000. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step overview of the process, including the necessary […]

Why Green Card Holders Should Immediately File for U.S. Citizenship in Light of the DHS Interim Final Rule

Why Green Card Holders Should Immediately File for U.S. Citizenship in Light of the DHS Interim Final Rule

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) upcoming Interim Final Rule (IFR) on Alien Registration and Evidence of Registration, set to take effect in April 2025, introduces new obligations and potential penalties for non-citizens residing in the United States. Given the increased scrutiny, stringent registration requirements, and potential legal consequences for noncompliance, lawful permanent residents […]

Deportation Inoculation Warnings: Why You Must File for U.S. Citizenship Now

Deportation Inoculation Warnings: Why You Must File for U.S. Citizenship Now

By Brian Figeroux, Esq. In the United States, millions of lawful permanent residents (green card holders) are eligible to become U.S. citizens but fail to do so. Many delay filing for naturalization due to fear, procrastination, misinformation, or simply not realizing the urgency. However, waiting too long to apply could expose you and your family […]

The Economic Cost and Rejection Probability of Immigrants Self-Representing or Using Notarios for USCIS Applications

The Economic Cost and Rejection Probability of Immigrants Self-Representing or Using Notarios for USCIS Applications

By Brian Figeroux, Esq.  The process of applying for legal immigration status or work permits in the United States can be complex and costly. Many immigrants, due to financial constraints or lack of awareness, either self-represent or seek the help of unauthorized immigration consultants, often referred to as “notarios.” Unfortunately, errors in these applications can […]

The Impact of State and Federal Public Assistance on Non-Citizens and Green Card Holders Legalizing in the U.S.

The Impact of State and Federal Public Assistance on Non-Citizens and Green Card Holders Legalizing in the U.S.

By Mary Campbell For many non-citizens and green card holders in the United States, public assistance programs provide critical financial support, food security, healthcare, and housing assistance. However, receiving public benefits can also impact an individual’s ability to adjust status, naturalize, or petition for family members under U.S. immigration laws. Understanding how federal and state […]

The Impact of State and Federal Public Assistance on Non-Citizens and Green Card Holders Legalizing in the U.S.

The Impact of State and Federal Public Assistance on Non-Citizens and Green Card Holders Legalizing in the U.S.

By Esther Claudette Gittens For many non-citizens and green card holders in the United States, public assistance programs provide critical financial support, food security, healthcare, and housing assistance. However, receiving public benefits can also impact an individual’s ability to adjust status, naturalize, or petition for family members under U.S. immigration laws. Understanding how federal and […]

Why Green Card Holders Should Apply for U.S. Citizenship

Why Green Card Holders Should Apply for U.S. Citizenship

By Brian Figeroux, Esq.  Becoming a U.S. citizen is a monumental step in solidifying your place in the United States, ensuring greater opportunities, security, and rights. If you are a green card holder eligible for naturalization, applying for U.S. citizenship is one of the most important decisions you can make for yourself and your family. […]

Defending Naturalized U.S. Citizens Against Denaturalization: A Comprehensive Analysis

Defending Naturalized U.S. Citizens Against Denaturalization: A Comprehensive Analysis

By Brian Figeroux, Esq.  President Trump’s expansion of denaturalization efforts represents a significant departure from the historical principles of fairness, stability, and equality in U.S. immigration policy. The flaws in these policies, from racial bias to constitutional overreach, highlight the need for robust legal defenses and systemic reforms. Introduction Overview of Naturalization and Citizenship in […]

When Can a Green Card Holder File for Citizenship, Its Benefits, and Its Role as a Defense Against Deportation under a Trump Administration in 2025

When Can a Green Card Holder File for Citizenship, Its Benefits, and Its Role as a Defense Against Deportation under a Trump Administration in 2025

By Brian Figeroux, Esq. | Editorial Credit: Mehaniq / shutterstock.com  As the United States approaches a Trump administration in 2025, the rights and security of non-citizens are again under scrutiny. Immigrants who hold green cards (lawful permanent resident status) may find themselves vulnerable to shifting policies, increased enforcement, and the risk of deportation for infractions […]