Top 5 Immigration Questions People Asked Online This Week [May 30, 2025]

Navigating the U.S. immigration system can often feel overwhelming and confusing, especially when unexpected issues arise or deadlines loom. Every week, people turn to the internet, open forums, and communities with questions about their unique immigration challenges, seeking clarity and reliable advice.

This week, we’ve gathered five of the most pressing immigration questions asked online, plus one bonus question that’s also generating a lot of buzz. Whether you’re facing court summons, visa delays, or preparing for interviews, we’ve got detailed answers to help you understand your options and what to expect next.

Let’s get into it.

#1. How do I help my girlfriend avoid deportation after receiving a court summons despite never filing her initial immigration application, and what should we know about ICE possibly waiting outside court?

If your girlfriend received a court summons without having filed any immigration application, it means removal proceedings have likely started. She should immediately seek help from an immigration attorney who can assess her eligibility for relief such as asylum, cancellation of removal, or adjustment of status, if applicable. Even without prior applications, certain protections may be available depending on her situation.

ICE agents sometimes wait near immigration courts to detain individuals, which can be intimidating. This enforcement practice varies by location but has increased recently. Having a lawyer present at hearings is essential for her protection and to navigate ICE presence. She should arrive early and know her rights.

The priority is to act quickly—finding legal assistance through nonprofits or immigration lawyers can improve her chances of staying in the U.S. Avoid handling court matters alone or without counsel.

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#2. If my mom’s green card interview in Ciudad Juarez was delayed due to lung lesions found during her medical exam, will she have to wait months again for a new appointment once the results are in, and what happens if the test comes back positive?

Medical exam delays are common in immigration cases, especially if abnormalities like lung lesions are detected. After further testing, your mom will likely face a waiting period before the consulate schedules a new interview. This wait can sometimes last months, depending on the consulate workload.

If the tests come back negative or clear, the process will resume. But if a communicable disease or serious condition is confirmed, she may require treatment and medical clearance before continuing. Some cases may need a waiver of inadmissibility, a separate legal step to allow entry despite health issues.

Stay in contact with the consulate and consider consulting an immigration attorney. Being proactive helps you understand options and prepare for the next steps once medical results are received.

#3. If my daughter, a U.S. citizen who has never worked in the U.S., is sponsoring me from abroad with a joint sponsor, does she still need to file U.S. tax returns before submitting the immigrant visa application?

Yes, your daughter will generally need to submit her most recent U.S. tax returns when sponsoring you, even if she hasn’t worked in the U.S. This is to prove her financial ability to support you and avoid public charges issues.

If your daughter has little or no income, a joint sponsor with adequate income must file an affidavit of support and provide their tax records. The joint sponsor becomes legally responsible for financially supporting the immigrant.

If your daughter hasn’t filed taxes due to living abroad or no U.S. income, she should consult a tax or immigration expert before filing the visa petition. Missing tax documentation can delay or jeopardize the process.

#4. As a green card holder applying for U.S. citizenship soon, is it necessary to hire an immigration lawyer, and if so, when in the process should I do that to avoid legal risks like detention?

Hiring an immigration lawyer for naturalization isn’t required but is recommended, especially if your case involves complications such as criminal history, prior immigration violations, or gaps in residency. An attorney can review your application, prepare you for the interview, and help prevent mistakes that could cause denial or legal trouble.

Most applicants with clean records successfully apply without a lawyer. However, consulting an attorney before filing your N-400 form is wise.

Detention risk during citizenship applications is rare but increases if removal proceedings exist or serious legal issues arise. Early legal advice can minimize such risks and ensure a smoother path to citizenship.

#5. After filing I-130, I-485, and I-131 for my parents, who are on B2 visas and have overstayed over 120 days, what should I expect next regarding their legal status, travel safety, and any risk once their I-94 expires?

When your parents file for adjustment of status (I-485) and Advance Parole (I-131) while on expired B2 visas, their legal status shifts to “pending adjustment,” allowing them to stay in the U.S. legally even after their I-94 expires. They should not accrue unlawful presence during this time.

Advance Parole lets them travel abroad and return without abandoning their application, but they must wait for approval before leaving. Traveling without it risks losing adjustment eligibility.

While their application is pending, they should carry receipt notices to prove their status, especially when traveling domestically. Processing times vary, so patience is key.

They must avoid overstaying without pending applications and consult with an attorney if unsure, as their status depends on USCIS processing and approval.

#6. With my B1/B2 tourist visa interview coming up, what questions should I prepare for, which documents will help my case, and what are my real chances of getting approved?

For a B1/B2 tourist visa interview, consular officers mainly want assurance that you will return home after your visit and not overstay. Common questions include your travel purpose, ties to your home country (job, family, property), financial means, and travel history.

Bring documents proving strong ties: employment letters, bank statements, property deeds, and invitation letters if visiting relatives. Be honest about your situation, especially if you recently quit a job—explain your plans clearly.

Approval chances depend on demonstrating strong ties and intent to return. There’s no guaranteed approval, but well-prepared applicants with convincing evidence and truthful answers fare better.

Final Thoughts

Immigration questions vary widely, reflecting the complex nature of U.S. immigration law and personal circumstances. This week’s five key questions—plus a bonus—cover urgent issues many people are facing, from court summons and health-related delays to sponsorship and visa interviews.

Remember, while immigration can be confusing, help is available. Immigration Question connects you with experienced attorneys and provides reliable answers to your toughest immigration challenges.

When in doubt or facing tough situations, visit Immigration Question to find trusted guidance and legal support.