J. Thomas Smith Ph.D.’s Answers

One DUI should not have a negative impact on your application for citizenship. Generally the last five years are reviewed most closely when it comes to criminal activity. One DUI I does not a drunkard make. As long as your application shows you are generally of good moral character, this one incident should not have a significant impact. However it might be a good idea to have a experienced immigration lawyer review your application, arrest and court records to determine if there are issues...

Of course. But, it it does not meet the 125% of poverty level standard, you may need a co- sponsor.

I agree with my colleagues. There are a number of services on-line.

From the facts you present, it does not appear promising. However, you should consult with an experienced Immigration Attorney who can examine the facts if the case and advise you accordingly.

I agree with my colleagues. Focus on your studies. After you get married and your husband has a job, and you have a place to live, then you should petition to adjust status.

There us NO WAY your family member will be re-admitted to the US in a year, if ever. If one does not leave under voluntary departure as promised, s/he is disqualified from most forms of relief for 10 years. Another consequence of failure to depart the U.S. on time is an automatic ten-year bar from being granted cancellation of removal, waiver, adjustment of status, change of status, registry, and further voluntary departure. Also a crime involving DV is an offense that would render one...

To plan to come to U.S. to get married while misstating your purpose for entering the country, is a violation of law. However, if one does happen to get married after entering with a visa,, the USC can petition (i-130) and the alien spouse can apply to adjust status (i-485) in U.S. Once the package is submitted, it would be best if alien remained in the US. for at least six months until approved. If the alien departs, you will have to apply for a K3 Spouse Visa which requires you to stay...

No one can stop you from getting married. However, while you might be able to petition for her, she would not be able to adjust status unless she first obtained a J1 waiver. J1 exchange visitor visas are unique in that they require some holders to return home at the end of the program for a period of two years instead of allowing the foreign national to work under an H-1B visa, L visa or to adjust status to a green card holder. The intent of the J1 exchange visitor visa is to provide...

No. There should be no problem traveling with a provisional green card.

"Saving time" may not be an option. Your approval receipt will not be adequate to prove citizenship. You will need copies ( or originals) of your proof of your U.S. citizenship status (a birth certificate, naturalization certificate, or passport) or permanent resident status (a green card or stamp in your passport). Do consult an an experienced immigration attorney for assistance.