Trusted Immigration Lawyer in US — Helping Families, Workers & Refugees Build Their Future in the U.S.

Navigating the U.S. immigration system can feel overwhelming — the forms are complex, the stakes are high, and one small mistake can delay your case by months. At Malik Law, PLLC, attorney Richa Malik is here to make the process clear, manageable, and as stress-free as possible. Whether you are reuniting with family, seeking work authorization, or applying for refugee protection, Richa will guide you every step of the way.

WHAT IS IMMIGRATION LAW?

Immigration law governs who can enter the United States, how long they may stay, and under what conditions they can remain permanently. The primary source of U.S. immigration law is the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA), which is built around four core principles: reuniting families, protecting refugees and asylum seekers, welcoming skilled workers, and promoting diversity. Each year, up to 675,000 permanent immigrant visas are available — and immediate relatives of U.S. citizens (spouses, parents, and children under 21) are always eligible with no annual cap.

WHAT DOES AN IMMIGRATION LAWYER DO?

An immigration lawyer helps you understand which visa you qualify for, prepares and reviews all required government paperwork, and presents your case in the strongest possible way. Immigration applications are often denied or delayed simply because of missing documents or technical errors — not because the applicant was ineligible. Having Richa Malik on your side means you have an experienced advocate reviewing every detail before it reaches a federal officer.

VISA TYPES SECTION

There are two main categories of U.S. visas: immigrant visas (for those intending to live here permanently) and nonimmigrant visas (for temporary stays for work, study, or travel). The most common immigrant visas include the IR1/CR1 for spouses of U.S. citizens, the K-1 fiancé(e) visa, and family-preference visas for siblings and adult children. On the nonimmigrant side, popular options include the H-1B for specialty workers, the F-1 student visa, the O-1 for individuals with extraordinary ability, and the B-2 tourist visa. 

• Immigrant Visa (visas available in parentheses)

  • Immediate Relative & Family-Sponsored

    • Spouse of a U.S. Citizen (IR1, CR1)
    • Fiancé(e) of a U.S. Citizen (K1)
    • Intercountry adoption (IR3, IH3, IR4, IH4)
    • Specific family members of U.S. Citizens (IR2, CR2, IR5, F1, F3, F4)
    • Specific family members of Lawful Permanent Residents (F2A, F2B)

  • Employment-Based

    • Priority workers
    • Advanced degree professionals and those of exceptional ability
    • Professionals
    • Job creators or investors
    • Religious workers
      
      

• Nonimmigrant Visa (visas available in parentheses)

  • Purpose for visit

    • Professional athlete (B-1)
    • Au pair (J)
    • Border Crossing Card: Mexico (BCC)
    • A Business visitor (B-1)
    • Foreign national with extraordinary ability in sciences, arts, education, business, or athletics (O)
    • Intra-company transferee (L)
    • Physician (J, H-1B)
    • Student (F, M)
    • Tourism (B2)
    • Spouse and children of a Lawful Permanent Resident (V)

This is not a complete list — Richa can evaluate your specific situation and identify all available pathways.

WHY MALIK LAW?

When you work with Richa Malik, you get a lawyer who is genuinely invested in your outcome. She takes the time to understand your situation, communicates clearly about your options, and is available to answer your questions throughout the process. Filing incomplete or inaccurate immigration paperwork can result in costly delays, denials, and added stress — Richa's careful approach helps you avoid those pitfalls.

Ready to take the next step? Call Malik Law, PLLC today for a consultation and find out how we can help you move forward with confidence.

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FAQ

Q: What does an immigration lawyer do?
A: An immigration lawyer evaluates your eligibility for various visa categories, prepares and reviews your government paperwork, and represents your interests throughout the application process. They help prevent costly delays caused by incomplete or incorrect filings.

Q: What is the difference between an immigrant visa and a nonimmigrant visa?
A: An immigrant visa is for people who intend to live permanently in the United States. A nonimmigrant visa is for temporary stays — such as tourism, study, or work on a specific contract. If you enter the U.S. on a nonimmigrant visa, you are generally expected to leave when it expires.

Q: Who qualifies as an immediate relative of a U.S. citizen?
A: Immediate relatives include spouses, parents, and unmarried children under the age of 21 of U.S. citizens. These individuals are not subject to annual visa caps, which means they can usually apply for a green card more quickly than other family members.

Q: How long does an immigration case typically take?
A: Processing times vary widely depending on the visa type, your country of origin, and current USCIS backlogs. Some nonimmigrant visas can be processed in weeks; family-preference and employment-based green cards can take years. Attorney Richa Malik can give you a realistic timeline based on your specific situation.

Q: What happens if my immigration application is denied?
A: A denial does not always mean the end of the road. Depending on the visa type, you may be able to file an appeal, request reconsideration, or reapply with additional supporting documentation. Working with an experienced attorney from the start significantly reduces the risk of denial.