Ricardo N. Gonzalez & Associates is a Houston immigration law firm dedicated to protecting the rights of those who seek to come to the United States on a temporary or permanent basis.
Our Houston immigration lawyers can assist with many issues affecting immigrants, from helping to secure visas to defense in immigration court proceedings.
Immigrant and Non-Immigrant Visas
There are two different types of visas offered by the United States government: immigrant visas and non-immigrant visas. The distinction between these two categories depends on the purpose of the visit. Those who are visiting only temporarily would fall into the non-immigrant category. Those intending to relocate to the U.S. permanently would be considered immigrants.
Under these 2 main categories, there are several different visas available, including:
Non-Immigrant Visas
- Tourist Visa
- Student Visa
- Work Visa
- Trade visas (for citizens of Canada and Mexico)
- Visas for exchange visitors
- Fiance and Fiancee immigration visas
- Visas for individual or team athletes
- Visas for those with extraordinary ability in sciences, arts, education, business or athletics
Immigrant Visas
- Immediate Relatives Immigration Visa
- Family-sponsored immigration visa
- Employer-sponsored immigration visa
- Marriage to a foreign national visa
- Employment Immigrant Visa
- Diversity Immigrant Visa Program, or Green Card Lottery
If you are seeking a visa for temporary or permanent U.S. residence, having an immigration law attorney on your side can make this process much easier.
Citizenship & Naturalization
The path to U.S. citizenship can often be complex and confusing for those who are not experienced in the legal issues involved. Don’t be discouraged by these obstacles! Our citizenship lawyers in Houston, Texas, can help.
Those who hold a green card know that even lawful permanent residence is not the same as citizenship. The length of your stay is entirely based on the government’s say. However, as a naturalized citizen, you are able to stay in the U.S. as long as you desire and take advantage of all the benefits of U.S. citizenship, including but not limited to:
- Voting
- Applying for jobs available only to U.S. citizens
- Helping other family members come to the U.S. faster
Becoming a citizen through naturalization can be difficult, but it is possible with the right support and knowledge. Factors that influence your success in naturalization include age; marital status; military status; length of residence in U.S.; length of time as a permanent resident; and knowledge of English and Civics.
Individuals who are seeking citizenship through naturalization are often concerned that other issues could influence their success, such as prior arrests; failure to register for selective service; failure to file income taxes; and a history of long stays abroad. These can affect the process, but they will not automatically disqualify you from obtaining citizenship.
Deportation Defense
When you are facing deportation proceedings in immigration court, you will need an advocate to defend your rights. The process can be confusing and often unfair to those who are subjected to it, but having the right deportation defense lawyer can even the odds and improve your chances of success.
Our Texas immigration lawyers can help if you or a family member has been detained or are facing deportation for the following reasons:
- Entering the U.S. improperly
- Failing to comply with visa regulations
- Being convicted of certain criminal offenses
- Remaining in the country after asylum appeals have been rejected
Get Help With Immigration Law Issues Today
For over 30 years, Ricardo N. Gonzalez & Associates has been helping individuals and families throughout Houston and the surrounding areas. Our reputation has been forged through dedicated hard work, high quality services and honest communications with our clients.
Are you or a loved struggling with an immigration issue? Whether you are seeking temporary or permanent residency, attempting to secure citizenship, or fighting deportation, contact the Houston immigration lawyers at Ricardo N. Gonzalez & Associates today. Our attorneys offer legal services in both English and Spanish (Espanol).
