Immigration FAQ — Work Dream Consulting

Question 1

What is an immigration consultant, and how is that different from an immigration attorney?

Accepted Answer

An immigration consultant is a certified professional who provides guidance, prepares applications, and assists clients through the immigration process. Unlike attorneys, consultants are not licensed to practice law or represent clients in court. However, for the vast majority of immigration matters — including asylum applications, visa petitions, family-based cases, and USCIS filings — a certified consultant with deep experience can provide expert, comprehensive support. Nelli Ashrafyan holds both a PhD and a license to practice law in Armenia, bringing exceptional analytical and procedural depth to every case.

Question 2

How do I know if I need professional help with my immigration case?

Accepted Answer

Immigration applications are complex, and even small errors can cause significant delays or denials. If your situation involves any of the following, professional guidance is strongly recommended: a prior denial or removal order, a complex immigration history, an asylum claim, a family petition with complications, or any case where the stakes are high. Even straightforward cases benefit from expert preparation — the cost of a mistake far exceeds the cost of getting it right the first time.

Question 3

What happens during the free initial consultation?

Accepted Answer

The initial consultation is a no-obligation conversation — typically 30 to 60 minutes — where we get to know your situation, answer your questions, and assess your options. We will ask about your immigration history, your goals, and any prior filings or decisions. By the end, you will have a clear picture of what we recommend and why. There is no pressure to proceed, and no fee for this first conversation.

Question 4

Do you offer services in languages other than English?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We provide services in English, Armenian, and Russian. We understand that navigating a complex legal process in a second language adds significant stress, and we are committed to ensuring every client fully understands their case, their options, and every document they sign.

Question 5

Who qualifies for asylum in the United States?

Accepted Answer

To qualify for asylum, you must demonstrate that you have suffered persecution — or have a well-founded fear of future persecution — in your home country based on one of five protected grounds: race, religion, nationality, membership in a particular social group, or political opinion. The persecution must be carried out by the government or by groups the government cannot or will not control. Every case is unique, and eligibility depends heavily on the specific facts of your situation.

Question 6

How long does the asylum process take?

Accepted Answer

Asylum timelines vary significantly depending on whether you file affirmatively (with USCIS) or defensively (in immigration court), your country of origin, the current USCIS backlog, and the complexity of your case. Affirmative asylum cases can take anywhere from several months to several years. Defensive cases in immigration court often take longer. We provide realistic timeline estimates based on current conditions at your initial consultation.

Question 7

What is the one-year filing deadline for asylum?

Accepted Answer

In most cases, you must file your asylum application within one year of your last arrival in the United States. Missing this deadline can bar you from asylum eligibility, though there are limited exceptions for changed or extraordinary circumstances. If you are approaching or have passed the one-year mark, contact us immediately — time is critical and options may still exist.

Question 8

What happens if my asylum application is denied?

Accepted Answer

A denial is not necessarily the end of the road. Depending on your circumstances, options may include requesting reconsideration from the asylum office, having your case heard in immigration court, appealing to the Board of Immigration Appeals, or filing a petition in federal court. We analyze every denial carefully to identify the strongest available path forward and give you an honest assessment of your prospects.

Question 9

What is the difference between a visa and a green card?

Accepted Answer

A visa is a document that allows you to enter the United States for a specific purpose and period of time — it does not grant permanent residence. A green card (lawful permanent resident status) allows you to live and work in the US indefinitely and is a step toward citizenship. Many immigration paths involve first obtaining a visa, then adjusting status to a green card once eligible.

Question 10

Can I change my visa status while in the United States?

Accepted Answer

In many cases, yes. Changing your status (for example, from a student visa to a work visa, or from a tourist visa to a family-based green card) is possible if you meet the eligibility requirements and file the correct applications in a timely manner. Overstaying a visa or violating its terms can complicate or bar a status change, so it is important to act before your authorized period of stay expires.

Question 11

How long does it take to get a work visa?

Accepted Answer

Processing times vary by visa category and USCIS workload. H-1B petitions, for example, are subject to an annual cap and lottery, with a specific filing window each year. Other employment-based categories may have shorter or longer timelines. Premium processing (an additional fee) is available for some visa types and can reduce processing to 15 business days. We assess your specific situation and recommend the most efficient path.

Question 12

Can I bring my spouse or children to the United States?

Accepted Answer

Yes. US citizens can petition for their spouse, unmarried children under 21, and parents as immediate relatives — these cases are not subject to annual numerical limits and generally move faster. Lawful permanent residents can petition for their spouse and unmarried children, though these cases are subject to annual caps and may involve waiting periods depending on the applicant's country of birth.

Question 13

How long does a family-based green card take?

Accepted Answer

For immediate relatives of US citizens (spouse, minor children, parents), the process typically takes 12 to 24 months from petition to green card, depending on whether the applicant is inside or outside the US. For family preference categories (adult children, siblings, spouses of green card holders), wait times can range from a few years to over a decade depending on the category and country of birth. We provide realistic estimates based on current visa bulletin data.

Question 14

What is the difference between adjustment of status and consular processing?

Accepted Answer

Adjustment of status is the process of applying for a green card while remaining inside the United States. Consular processing is used when the applicant is outside the US — the case is processed through a US embassy or consulate abroad. The right approach depends on where the applicant currently lives, their immigration history, and other factors. We assess both options and recommend the most appropriate path for your situation.

Question 15

How much does immigration consulting cost?

Accepted Answer

Our fees vary depending on the type and complexity of your case. We provide a clear, written fee agreement before any work begins — no surprises, no hidden charges. We believe transparent pricing is part of honest service. Contact us for a free consultation and we will give you a straightforward assessment of what your case involves and what it will cost.

Question 16

How long will my case take from start to finish?

Accepted Answer

Timelines depend entirely on the type of case, USCIS processing times, and your individual circumstances. At your initial consultation, we provide a realistic estimate based on current conditions. We also keep you updated throughout the process so you are never left wondering where things stand.

Question 17

What documents will I need to provide?

Accepted Answer

The required documents vary by case type, but commonly include identity documents (passport, birth certificate), immigration history records, evidence supporting your claim or petition, and financial documents where required. We provide you with a comprehensive, personalized document checklist at the start of your case so you know exactly what to gather.

Question 18

Will I work directly with Nelli, or will my case be handled by someone else?

Accepted Answer

You work directly with Nelli Ashrafyan. Every case is personally overseen by Nelli from start to finish — not delegated to a junior associate or case manager. This direct, personal attention is one of the things that sets Work Dream Consulting apart, and it is a commitment we take seriously.

Answers to Your Most Important Immigration Questions

Getting Started

Asylum

Visas & Status

Family-Based Immigration

Working With Us

Still Have Questions?