VíaLegal Immigration

06/20/2026

Today, on World Refugee Day, we recognize the strength, resilience, and courage of refugees around the world. Behind every story is a person, a family, and a journey filled with unimaginable challenges—and extraordinary perseverance.

We believe everyone deserves dignity, compassion, and access to trusted legal support as they navigate the complex immigration process. That's why we work to open as many doors as possible for those we serve.

Today, we honor refugees and stand alongside those seeking safety and opportunity.

💙

06/16/2026

📍Our new office is more than just an inviting space where our legal team can meet with families and help shape bright futures—it's an investment in our community.

Project 658 welcomed us to their Hope Community Clinic East Charlotte campus, allowing us to provide immigrant families with greater access to the legal services they need while connecting them to educational, vocational, health, and wellness resources already available on-site.

Bringing these services together under one roof creates a stronger support system and helps families thrive as they build their futures in the greater Charlotte area.

Our new location:
6900 Farmingdale Drive
Charlotte, NC 28212

06/15/2026

EOIR and USCIS Annual Asylum Fee Update
If you have a pending asylum application with EOIR (Immigration Court) or USCIS, there is an important fee update you should be aware of.

EOIR and USCIS are charging an Annual Asylum Fee of $102 for certain asylum applicants whose cases have remained pending for an extended period. If you receive a notice from either EOIR or USCIS requiring payment, you must pay the fee by the deadline provided. Not paying may impact your pending asylum application.

Because fee notices are sent by mail and through EOIR or USCIS accounts, it is more important than ever to:
✅ Regularly check your mail and EOIR or USCIS account for updates
✅ Keep your address current with USCIS and EOIR
✅ Review all notices carefully and respond by the stated deadlines

Also, be sure to make any payments inside the EOIR or USCIS portal and respond only to official mail sent from EOIR or USCIS.

If you have questions about whether the Annual Asylum Fee applies to your case, you can book an appointment with our legal team to discuss your case.

06/10/2026

Yesterday, our Legal Director, Laura Parker Waits, partnered with Project 658 to present "You Are Not Alone," an educational session for refugees on recent policy changes and how to request their immigration records through the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA).

This was the first time we've offered this presentation specifically for refugees, and we were encouraged to see 15–20 people in attendance. The group was incredibly engaged, asking thoughtful questions to understand the resources available and their options.

We were especially inspired by the resilience, determination, and hope demonstrated by everyone who attended. The conversation doesn't stop here. As a follow-up, Project 658 plans to host a hands-on FOIA workshop where participants can submit their own FOIA requests using the guidance provided during the presentation.

We're grateful for opportunities like these to empower individuals with knowledge and connect our community with tools that can help them move forward.

06/08/2026

✈️ Planning Summer Travel? Read This First.

If you’re an immigrant, leaving the U.S. isn’t always as simple as booking a flight.

For some immigration cases, traveling outside the country—even for a short trip or family emergency—can impact your immigration process, delay your case, or make reentry more difficult.

Before making travel plans, it’s important to understand how your immigration status or a pending case could affect your travel.

Things to consider:
✔️ Do you have permission to re-enter the U.S.?
✔️ Could travel impact your immigration case?
✔️ Are there risks based on your current status?

Our team is here to help you understand your options before you travel.
📅 Schedule an appointment to discuss your case and travel plans.

06/02/2026

🌍 Happy Immigrant Heritage Month! This June, we invite you to share your story and celebrate the unique backgrounds that shape our community. Your journey matters, and together, let's highlight what makes us unique. Comment below with your story!

05/29/2026

Many immigrant families and immigration legal professionals are closely following the recent announcement regarding Adjustment of Status (green card applications filed from within the U.S.) and what it may mean moving forward.

At this stage, there are still questions about how this policy shift may be applied in practice and who could ultimately be impacted. While the announcement may cause some concern, it is important to remember that immigration law and policy continue to evolve—and each case is unique.

If you have a pending case or are considering applying for Adjustment of Status, now is a good time to stay informed and seek legal guidance specific to your situation. You can make an appointment with our legal team within just a few days to get your questions answered. We're here to help.

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05/28/2026

Why does Good Moral Character matter in immigration cases? If you’re navigating the immigration process, this is a topic you’ll likely hear about—and for good reason.

While it may sound subjective, Good Moral Character can play an important role in many immigration applications and may directly impact whether a case is approved or denied.

In our recent video, our Legal Director, Laura Parker Waits, explains why Good Moral Character matters.

🎥 Watch the video to get the scoop—and if you have questions about how this may impact your specific case, schedule an appointment with our team.

Why does Good Moral Character matter in your immigration case?If you’re applying for certain immigration benefits, this topic will likely come up—and it may ...

05/27/2026

💼 Employment helps provide for you and your family and lets you build the future you’ve always dreamed about. To work in the U.S., you must have proper authorization, which can include:

✔️ Being a U.S. citizen
✔️ Being a lawful permanent resident (green card holder)
✔️ Holding a visa that allows you to work
✔️ Having a valid Employment Authorization Document (EAD) or work permit

Employers are required to verify work authorization and follow federal laws—making it essential for both employees and businesses to stay informed and up to date.

If you have questions about your eligibility, our team is here to help you understand your options and next steps.

05/21/2026

What does Good Moral Character really mean in the immigration process? For many immigrants, it can play an important role in their case.

In our recent video, our Legal Director, Laura Parker Waits, explains what Good Moral Character is, why it matters, and how you can demonstrate it throughout your immigration journey.

🎥 If you or someone you know is navigating the immigration process, don’t miss this important video. Understanding Good Moral Character can help you make informed decisions about your future. Reach out to our team if you need help.

What does Good Moral Character really mean in immigration—and why does it matter for your case?If you’re navigating the immigration process, this is an impor...