Work Visas & Family-Based Immigration Attorney in Honolulu

Helping Individuals & Families Secure Legal Entry into the U.S.

Whether you are a skilled worker seeking employment in the U.S. or a U.S. citizen petitioning for a family member to immigrate, the visa process can be complex and overwhelming. With strict immigration policies, eligibility requirements, and application procedures, even small mistakes can lead to delays or denials. At the Law Offices of Edward J.S.F. Smith, we provide strategic legal guidance for individuals applying for employment-based visas, family sponsorship, and visa adjustments, ensuring a smooth and successful immigration process.

Two men are standing next to each other in front of a van filled with tools.

Employment-Based Visas & Work Authorization

For professionals, investors, and skilled workers, a work visa provides an opportunity to live and work legally in the U.S. However, eligibility depends on job qualifications, employer sponsorship, and visa category requirements. We assist individuals and businesses with:

  • H-1B Visas – For highly skilled professionals in specialty occupations.
  • L-1 Visas – For executives and managers transferring within the same company.
  • O-1 Visas – For individuals with extraordinary abilities in business, science, arts, or athletics.
  • E-2 Investor Visas – For entrepreneurs and investors from treaty countries.
  • TN Visas – For Canadian and Mexican professionals under NAFTA/USMCA.
Securing Legal Entry into the U.S.

Family Sponsorship & Fiancé(e) Visas

Family reunification is one of the most common reasons for immigration to the U.S. U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents can petition to bring their family members to the U.S. through family-based visas and sponsorship programs. Our firm assists with:

  • Fiancé(e) Visas (K-1 & K-3) – Bringing a foreign fiancé(e) or spouse to the U.S.
  • Immediate Relative Green Cards – Sponsoring spouses, children, or parents of U.S. citizens.
  • Family Preference Visas – For siblings and extended family members.
  • Adjustment of Status – Helping visa holders transition to permanent residency.
  • Consular Processing – For family members applying from outside the U.S.
Keeping Families Together Through Legal Immigration
A woman is holding a piece of carpet in a factory.
Answers to Your Most Pressing Questions

FAQs About Work Visas & Family Immigration

  • How long does it take to get a work visa?

    Processing times vary by visa type. H-1B visas are subject to an annual lottery, while L-1 and O-1 visas can take weeks to months, depending on USCIS processing times.

  • Can my family come with me on a work visa?

    Many employment-based visas allow dependents to apply for derivative visas, such as H-4, L-2, or O-3 visas for spouses and children.

  • What is the difference between a fiancé(e) visa and a spousal visa?

    A K-1 fiancé(e) visa allows a foreign fiancé(e) to enter the U.S. and marry within 90 days, while spousal visas (CR-1, IR-1, K-3) allow entry after the marriage is finalized abroad.

  • Can I work in the U.S. on a family-based visa?

    Some family-sponsored immigrants are eligible to apply for work authorization (EAD) while waiting for green card approval.

  • What happens if my visa is denied?

    If your visa is denied, we can appeal the decision, file a motion to reopen, or reapply with stronger supporting evidence.

Let’s Secure Your Legal Path to the U.S.

Whether you need a work visa, fiancé(e) visa, or family sponsorship, we provide legal guidance to help you achieve your immigration goals.

A black and white icon of a briefcase on a white background.