What services do USA immigration consultants in India provide?

USA immigration consultants in India offer a range of services, including:

• Visa application assistance (e.g., H-1B, L-1, F-1, EB-5, B-1/B-2).
• Green card processing (family-based or employment-based).
• Documentation preparation and verification.
• Guidance on immigration laws and policies.
• Interview preparation and mock sessions.
• Post-landing services (e.g., accommodation, job search assistance).

Always verify if the consultant is authorized and registered with relevant authorities like the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in India.

How do I verify the authenticity of a USA immigration consultant in India?

To verify a consultant’s authenticity:

• Check if they are registered with the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) or affiliated with organizations like AAI (Association of American Immigration Lawyers).
• Look for reviews, testimonials, and ratings online.
• Ensure they provide a transparent fee structure and contract.
• Avoid consultants who guarantee visa approval, as no one can guarantee such outcomes.

What is the average cost of hiring a USA immigration consultant in India?

The cost varies depending on the services:

• Visa application assistance: ₹20,000 to ₹1,00,000.
• Green card processing: ₹1,00,000 to ₹5,00,000.
• EB-5 investment visa: ₹10,00,000+ (excluding the investment amount).
• Always compare fees across multiple consultants and ensure there are no hidden charges.

Can immigration consultants guarantee a USA visa?

No, reputable consultants cannot guarantee visa approval. Visa decisions are made by U.S. consular officers based on individual eligibility, documentation, and adherence to immigration laws. Beware of consultants who make such guarantees, as they may be fraudulent.

What documents are required for USA visa applications?

Common documents include:

• Valid passport.
• Visa application form (DS-160 for non-immigrant visas).
• Proof of financial stability (bank statements, sponsorship letters).
• Employment or admission letters (for work or student visas).
• Photographs meeting U.S. visa specifications.
• Supporting documents specific to the visa category (e.g., H-1B requires an approved I-129 petition).

Consultants can help ensure all documents are accurate and complete.

What is the difference between a visa and a green card?

• Visa: A temporary permit to enter the U.S. for a specific purpose (e.g., work, study, tourism). It has an expiration date.
• Green Card: A permanent residency permit that allows you to live and work in the U.S. indefinitely. It can be obtained through family sponsorship, employment, or investment (EB-5).

How long does the USA immigration process take?

Processing times vary:

• Non-immigrant visas (e.g., H-1B, F-1): 2-6 months.
• Family-based green cards: 1-2 years (or longer depending on the category).
• Employment-based green cards: 1-3 years (or longer for certain categories like EB-3).
• EB-5 investment visas: 5+ years due to visa backlogs.

Consultants can provide updated timelines based on current immigration policies.

What are the common reasons for USA visa rejections?

Common reasons include:

• Incomplete or inaccurate documentation.
• Insufficient proof of financial stability.
• Failure to demonstrate strong ties to your home country.
• Misrepresentation or fraud in the application.
• Criminal record or security concerns.

Consultants can help you avoid these pitfalls by ensuring your application is thorough and accurate.

Can I apply for a USA visa without a consultant?

Yes, you can apply for a USA visa without a consultant. The U.S. Embassy provides detailed guidelines on their website. However, hiring a consultant can simplify the process, especially if your case is complex or you are unfamiliar with immigration laws.

What should I do if I suspect fraud by an immigration consultant?

If you suspect fraud:

• Stop all communication and payments to the consultant.
• File a complaint with the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) or local consumer court.
• Report the consultant to the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in India.
• Seek legal advice to recover any lost funds or resolve issues.

Always research consultants thoroughly before engaging their services.

What is the difference between a non-immigrant visa and an immigrant visa?

• Non-immigrant Visa: This is a temporary visa for specific purposes such as tourism (B-2), work (H-1B), study (F-1), or business (B-1). It requires the holder to return to their home country after the visa expires.
• Immigrant Visa: This is for individuals who intend to live permanently in the U.S. It leads to a green card (permanent residency). Examples include family-sponsored visas (IR-1, F-1) and employment-based visas (EB-1, EB-2, EB-3).

Consultants can help you determine which visa category suits your needs.

What is the EB-5 visa, and is it a good option for Indians?

• The EB-5 visa is an investment-based green card program. It requires an investment of 
• 800,000∗∗(inTargetedEmploymentAreas)or∗∗
• 800,000∗∗(inTargetedEmploymentAreas)or∗∗1,050,000 (in non-TEAs) in a U.S. business that creates at least 10 jobs.
• It is a good option for Indians with the financial means to invest, but it has long processing times (5+ years) due to high demand and visa backlogs.
• Consultants can guide you through the investment process, project selection, and documentation.

Can I switch from a non-immigrant visa to a green card?

Yes, it is possible to switch from a non-immigrant visa (e.g., H-1B, L-1) to a green card. Common pathways include:

• Employment-based green card: Your employer can sponsor you for a green card under categories like EB-2 or EB-3.
• Family-based green card: If you have a close family member who is a U.S. citizen or green card holder, they can sponsor you.
• Adjustment of Status (AOS): If you are already in the U.S., you can apply for AOS to transition to permanent residency.

Consultants can help you navigate the process and ensure compliance with immigration laws.

What is the H-1B visa, and how can I apply for it?

• The H-1B visa is a non-immigrant visa for skilled workers in specialty occupations (e.g., IT, engineering, medicine). It requires a job offer from a U.S. employer and a bachelor’s degree or equivalent. The application process involves:
  1. The employer files a Labor Condition Application (LCA) with the U.S. Department of Labor.
  2. The employer submits Form I-129 (Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker) to USCIS.
  3. If selected in the H-1B lottery, the applicant applies for the visa at a U.S. consulate.

Consultants can assist with documentation, lottery registration, and interview preparation.

What are the post-landing services offered by immigration consultants?

Post-landing services help immigrants settle in the U.S. after arrival. These services may include:

• Assistance with Social Security Number (SSN) application.
• Guidance on opening a bank account and building credit history.
• Help with finding accommodation and schools for children.
• Job search assistance and resume preparation.
• Orientation on U.S. culture, laws, and healthcare systems.