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Chicago Immigration Attorneys

Our Chicago immigration lawyers can assist you in receiving proper immigration status.  Visa and status are not one and the same thing. The visa serves as a travel document to allow the noncitizen to whom it was issued to travel to the U.S. and apply for admission into the US. The noncitizen must apply for admission to the U.S. during the validity period of the visa. The visa alone does not, however, confer any immigration status or employment authorization, and the validity of the visa does not relate whatsoever to the period of time the noncitizen is authorized to remain in the US. The expiration of the visa following the noncitizen's entry into the United States does not necessarily affect the noncitizen's authorized stay in the United States.

The period of authorized stay is indicated on the Form I-94 issued to the noncitizen and is unrelated to the period during which a consular officer has authorized an noncitizen to apply for admission to the U.S. under the classification indicated on the visa.

The I-94 is issued at a U.S. port of entry following an interview by an immigration officer to determine whether the noncitizen is eligible for admission in that particular nonimmigrant category. The Form I-94 indicates the classification under which the noncitizen is admitted and the period of authorized stay in the U.S. under that classification. Although the period of authorized stay is usually expressed with a beginning and ending date, for some nonimmigrants classifications the authorized period of stay may be expressed as "D/S," meaning for duration of status.

Maintaining valid status at all times is important for future applications for benefits in the U.S. If you have any concerns regarding your status in the U.S. call us at 773-516-4100 or contact us online for a consultation to discuss your immigration issues or questions.

Client Reviews
★★★★★
Someone rear-ended my car last spring and I was injured. Peter and Sofia Zneimer and they staff were professional and were always available by phone. I knew that the insurance of the other driver wasn't very good but they were still able to settle my case promptly and I was satisfied with the money I received. Overall, a very good trusted experience. Natig M.
★★★★★
I highly recommend the services of Zneimer and Zneimer. I often seek legal advice from them related to my immigration status and way forward. Both Sofia and Peter are very detailed and quick in answering any question. I laud their professionalism and a very efficient team that works for them. Suman S.
★★★★★
I totally recommend Sofia, she is the best lawyer in Chicago area. She is very professional, very detailed with her work and supportive. She always goes above and beyond to ensure the best outcome. Caring, compassionate and only the best for your family. I won my case because of her professionalism and her knowledge of the law. Aurel P.
★★★★★
I have dealt with Sofia Zneimer since 2009. She is a great lawyer and has helped me tremendously in navigating the process of green card. She is a great resource to have by your side. She is easy to reach. She responds very quickly, which was very important for me. If she can’t answer the question the same day, she does let you know that she is working on it. I would have no hesitation in recruiting her. Hemant S.
★★★★★
I called Zneimer & Zneimer after I was rear-ended on the highway. Peter and Sofia Zneimer have been very helpful in dealing with the insurance company and getting money for my car damage. They are also handling my injury case. They answer all my questions and I am always able to reach them on the phone anytime I want to talk to them. I am confident in having them represent me. The best choice i ever made. Thank you! Emil G.