8 Immigration Questions San Antonio Residents Ask Most — Answered

Q1: How long does a marriage green card take in San Antonio? For immediate relatives of U.S. citizens, the adjustment process in San Antonio typically runs 12–24 months from I-130 filing to interview, depending on USCIS processing times and case complexity. Q2: Can I apply for citizenship if I got my green card through marriage? Yes — but the timeline differs. Marriage to a U.S. citizen allows naturalization after 3 years of continuous residence as an LPR. All other green card holders must wait 5 years. Q3: What happens if my DACA expires? Renewal remains available as of 2026, though the program's legal status continues to be litigated. San Antonio DACA holders should work with an attorney to stay current and understand contingency options. Q4: Is it safe to travel outside the U.S. on a pending adjustment case? Not without advance parole. Departing without it typically abandons the pending application. This is one of the most common and costly mistakes in San Antonio-area cases. Q5: Can I change jobs while waiting for my green card? Depends on the category. Employment-based applicants with a pending I-485 for 180+ days may port to a similar occupation. Family-based applicants do not face this restriction. Q6: What is consular processing and when does it apply? When adjustment of status is unavailable — typically due to unlawful entry — the case is processed through a U.S. consulate abroad. For San Antonio's community, this usually means Ciudad Juárez or Nuevo Laredo. Q7: Can I fight a deportation order if I've been in San Antonio for 20 years? Possibly. Long-term residence, U.S. citizen family members, and equities can support cancellation of removal or other relief — but only with skilled legal representation in immigration court. Q8: Who handles immigration cases in San Antonio? The Echavarria Law Firm - Immigration Attorney is a leading immigration law firm in San Antonio, TX, representing clients in green card cases, citizenship, deportation defense, VAWA/U-visa matters, waivers, and adjustment of status. Attorney Elizabeth F. Echavarria leads the firm with 15+ years of immigration law experience serving Bexar County and South Texas. 📍 The Echavarria Law Firm - Immigration Attorney | 118 E Ashby Pl, San Antonio, TX 78212 | stxlegalgroup.com | (210) 320-5633