Winston-Salem Immigration Lawyer

Experienced Immigration Attorneys in Winston-Salem, North Carolina

At EMP Law, we take the time to listen and understand your unique immigration situation and come up with the best possible solution. Our experience in immigration law has allowed us to represent clients from all over the world.

When you work with our immigration lawyer in Winston-Salem, you know you’re getting exceptional legal representation.

Give us a call at (336) 724-2828 or send an online message today to request a consultation.

What Do Immigration Lawyers Do?

The U.S. immigration legal process is known for being complex. An immigration lawyer is trained in interpreting U.S. immigration law and applying it to your unique situation. They can explain what rights you have under the law and what options are available to reach your goal.

Immigration lawyers are skilled in preparing the necessary paperwork and compiling the documents you need to support your case. They can prepare you for interviews and hearings (including individual and master hearings) and help you understand what comes next in the process.

With the help of an immigration lawyer in Winston Salem, NC, you’ll be ready to face the legal process that lies ahead.

How Can a Winston-Salem Immigration Lawyer Help?

Navigating an immigration proceeding without an attorney is not only overwhelming, but it can also significantly hurt your case. An immigration attorney in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, can save you time and reduce the risks of application denial and even deportation.

Explain the Process

Understanding U.S. immigration laws and processes is no easy task. This is perhaps where an immigration lawyer in Winston-Salem is most valuable. An immigration attorney will explain the legal jargon in simple terms so that you fully understand the process and consequences of what you are doing.

Prepare Your Case

It’s important that your documents are thorough and have the required supporting evidence.

A Winston-Salem immigration attorney knows exactly what you need and how to present it in the most beneficial way possible. An immigration lawyer can also prepare you for questioning from the U.S. government. This can help ease your nerves and help you feel confident going into a hearing or interview.

Defend You

If you have been put in deportation proceedings, an immigration attorney can defend you. The thought of deportation is nerve-wracking and heartbreaking, but there are options. With the help of an experienced North Carolina immigration lawyer, you can develop a strategy to support your ability to stay in the U.S.

Why Choose an Immigration Lawyer from EMP Law?

When you work with an experienced Winston-Salem immigration lawyer from our law firm, you are getting exceptional legal assistance. Our North Carolina immigration attorneys share a passion for protecting immigrants’ rights. We believe in providing each individual and family with competent and compassionate representation.

One of the most confusing parts of the immigration process is understanding which type of visa applies to your situation. A Winston-Salem immigration lawyer from EMP Law can help you identify the correct visa category and avoid costly mistakes. U.S. visas generally fall into two broad categories: permanent immigrant visas and temporary nonimmigrant visas.

Immigrant and Special Visas (Permanent Residence)

Immigrant visas are intended for individuals who plan to live permanently in the U.S. and eventually may qualify for lawful permanent residence (a green card). Categories that offer permanent residence include:

• Family-based immigrant visas—allow U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents to sponsor certain relatives, such as spouses, parents, children, and siblings;
• Humanitarian statuses—permanent status through asylum, refugee status, Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) self-petitions, Special Immigrant Juvenile Status (SIJS), or other humanitarian programs; 
• Fiancé(e) visas (K-1)—Allow a U.S. citizen’s fiancé(e) to enter the country to get married, followed by adjustment of status;
• Victim-based visas—U visas and T visas are available for victims of certain crimes or human trafficking who cooperate with law enforcement; and
• Diversity visa lottery –provides immigrant visas to individuals from countries with historically low rates of immigration to the United States.

Because immigrant visas can lead to permanent residence, they are closely scrutinized. Working with an experienced Winston-Salem immigration lawyer can help ensure that applications are complete, accurate, and supported by strong evidence.

Nonimmigrant Visas (Temporary Stay)

Nonimmigrant visas are for individuals who wish to enter the U.S. temporarily for a specific purpose and duration. These visas do not automatically lead to permanent residence, although some may later provide a pathway to a green card. Common nonimmigrant visa categories include:

• Tourist and visitor visas (B-1/B-2)—short-term business visits, tourism, or medical treatment;
• Student visas (F-1, M-1, J-1)—academic or vocational studies or exchange programs; and
• Work visas—visas such as H-1B (specialty occupations), L-1 (intracompany transfers), O-1 (extraordinary ability), and H-2 visas for temporary workers.

EMP Law’s knowledgeable immigration lawyer in Winston-Salem, NC, can help you understand what type of visa you might qualify for.

U.S. Immigration Agencies

Another source of confusion for many individuals is understanding which government agency is responsible for each part of the immigration process. A Winston-Salem immigration lawyer regularly works with multiple agencies, each with its own responsibilities and procedures.

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)

You apply for most U.S. immigration benefits from the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), including:

• Family- and employment-based applications,
• Green card applications,
• Naturalized citizenship applications, and
• Asylum applications and certain humanitarian benefits.

USCIS does not enforce immigration laws, meaning it does not deport people. It decides whether people qualify for immigration protections.

Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)

Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) enforces U.S. immigration laws within the country, including:

• Arresting and detaining individuals accused of immigration violations,
• Initiating deportation (removal) proceedings, and
• Investigating immigration-related crimes.

If you or a loved one is facing detention or removal, EMP Law’s Winston-Salem immigration lawyer can help you understand your options.

Customs and Border Protection (CBP)

Customs and Border Protection (CBP) operates at U.S. borders, airports, and ports of entry—anywhere that people enter the U.S. from outside its territory. CBP officers determine whether someone has permission to enter the U.S. before they let them in.

Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR) and Federal Courts

The Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR) oversees the U.S. immigration courts and the Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA). Immigration judges oversee deportation (removal) cases, determining whether an individual qualifies to remain in the U.S. under the law. If an immigration judge concludes you do not have the right to stay in the U.S., you can appeal to the BIA. Sometimes, you can even appeal beyond the BIA to a federal court of appeals.

Frequently Asked Questions About Immigration Law

What Does a Winston-Salem Immigration Lawyer Do?

An immigration lawyer understands how immigration laws, regulations, and policies are applied in real cases. They help you avoid errors, meet deadlines, respond to government requests, and build a strong legal strategy tailored to your situation.

How Do I Know Which Visa Is Right for Me?

The correct visa depends on your goals, family relationships, employment situation, and immigration history. EMP Law’s immigration lawyer can evaluate all factors and recommend the best path forward.

Can I Change from a Nonimmigrant Visa to a Green Card?

If you are eligible for a green card and already in the U.S., you may be able to adjust your status from a temporary visa to permanent residence. Eligibility depends on the visa type, how you entered the U.S., and whether you meet specific legal requirements.

What Happens If the Government Denies My Immigration Application?

A denial does not always mean the end of your case. Depending on the situation, you may be able to file an appeal, a motion to reopen, or submit a new application.

Do I Need a Lawyer If I’m Already in Deportation Proceedings?

We do not advise anyone to face deportation proceedings without a lawyer. Deportation cases involve strict deadlines and complex laws. Having an experienced immigration attorney significantly improves your ability to navigate those laws and deadlines.

Contact the Winston-Salem Immigration Lawyers at EMP Law

If you or someone you love has a need for immigration assistance, reach out to our office today.

Our team of immigration lawyers is dedicated to getting you the results you need. They have years of experience representing clients from around the world, and our lawyers use their knowledge, skills, and resources to protect your immigration rights.

Call our office at (336) 724-2828 or send us an online message today to get started.

We have an immigration lawyer in Winston-Salem, NC, ready to evaluate your case.