Immigration Helpers- Middle School

These terms reference legal framework required when an outside entity—like a family member, employer, or lawyer—helps an immigrant.

• Sponsorship (income requirement) / Affidavit of support: An "Affidavit of Support" is a legally binding contract signed by a sponsor. The sponsor must prove their income meets federal requirements, promising the government that they will financially support the immigrant so they will not need public financial assistance.

• Employer-Based petition: The legal process where a U.S. business formally requests that the government grant a visa or green card to a foreign worker because of their unique professional skills.

• Labor certification: A mandatory screening process where the Department of Labor requires an employer to prove that they tested the local job market and could not find a qualified, available U.S. worker to fill a position before they are allowed to hire someone outside of the country.

• Marriage petition / Marriage fraud: A marriage petition is when a U.S. citizen or Lawful Permanent Resident applies to get a Green Card for their spouse that is neither a citizen or an LPR. "Marriage fraud" is the illegal act of entering into a fake marriage solely to bypass immigration laws and secure a green card.

• Adoption for immigration purposes: The process of legally adopting a child from a foreign country according to specific immigration rules, allowing the child to move to the U.S. and obtain citizenship.

• Immigration Attorney Help: Seeking counsel from a licensed lawyer who specializes in immigration law to navigate complex regulations, draft petitions, or represent clients in court.

• Pro bono: Legal work or representation performed by an attorney for free, typically provided to low-income immigrants or humanitarian cases who cannot afford standard legal fees.