Types of Special Applications and Petitions

There are numerous applications and petitions that non-citizens can file for entering the United States temporarily or for obtaining lawful permanent residency. Examples include DACA, VAWA, CAA, and various types of visas.

VAWA (Violence Against Women's Act)

• What It Is: Special pathway for non-citizens who are victims of domestic abuse.

• Requirements: Filing of an I-360 petition, proof of a bona fide marriage, and admissibility.

DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals)

• What It Is: Legal status for non-citizens who entered the U.S. before age 16.

• Benefits: Work, study, and possible Green Card through specific pathways.

CAA (Cuban Adjustment Act)

• What It Is: Lawful permanent residency for Cuban citizens after one year and one day in the U.S.

• Requirements: Must present themselves to a U.S. immigration officer for inspection.

U Visas

• What It Is: Residency for non-citizens who are victims of a crime and assist law enforcement.

• Requirements: Support and letter or affidavit from a specific police officer or official.

K Visas (Fiancé Visas)

• What It Is: Allows a non-citizen fiancé to enter the U.S. for the purpose of marriage.

• Requirements: Meeting in person within the last two years and admissibility.

TPS (Temporary Protected Status)

• What It Is: Temporary residency for citizens of 27 designated countries.

• Eligible Countries: Haiti, Honduras, Nicaragua, Venezuela, Afghanistan, Ukraine, among others.

CAT Claim (Convention Against Torture)

• What It Is: Defense against deportation based on the risk of torture.

• Requirements: Must be proven to the satisfaction of an immigration judge.

Immigration for Medical Doctors

Paths to Green Card

• Options: Through Labor Certification (PERM) or a National Interest Waiver (NIV).

Basic Requirements for All Paths

• Education: 4 years at an accredited medical school.

• Exams: Pass the United States Medical Licensing Exam and others.

• Certificates: Obtain ECFMG Certification.

Education Requirements

• Language: Fluency in English.

• Courses: Biology, Chemistry, Algebra, and more.

USMLE (United States Medical Licensing Exam)

• What It Is: Three exams that must be passed before applying for a residency program.

Residency Application Process

• How to Apply: Through ERAS or NRMP.

• Visa Categories: J-1, F-1, H-1B, or TN.

Lawful Permanent Residency

• National Interest Waiver: Work in a “designated underserved area.”

• Application Process: Includes filing I-485 and an approved I-140.