Q1. HBM Law aims to help people create homes and unite families and loved ones in the United States. Could you elaborate on what this means and how your team supports individuals in achieving this goal?

This signifies the dedication HBM Law Offices has towards the immigrants and its mission to ease the process for them. Under the leadership of Himani Bhardwaj, Principal Attorney, our team assesses each client and provides advice based on the specific circumstances. They ensure to provide the right options, keeping the best interest of the clients and without having the fear of separation. The firm is committed to not just giving legal advice and navigating through the intricacies of immigration law, but they also empathize and understand the emotional challenges that their clients experience for longing to unite with their families. This approach builds trust and a long-term relationship with their clients, leading to a more positive impact on them.

Q2. What do you think are the most common challenges that couples from different countries face when applying for U.S. visas?

The first and most important challenge is documentation, as each country has a different standard of documents, and it is often challenging for couples to gather the necessary documents as per the regulations set by the U.S. government, such as birth certificates or marriage certificates.

Secondly, visa processing times vary significantly from country to country. Having different and longer processing times often leads to uncertainty and can be extremely stressful for couples who are longing to be together in the United States.

Thirdly, couples face legal immigration complexities, especially for couples who may not be familiar with the legalities or if one of the partners has any immigration violation or criminal records that may affect eligibility. Understanding the requirements and eligibility can be confusing, and couples must consult an Immigration Attorney for a hassle-free application process.

Q3. What strengths, skills, tools, or resources do you offer to help HBM Law clients stay informed and supported throughout the visa process? 

My strength lies in researching the intricate grounds of hardship, admissibilities, and related waivers, with a specialized focus on provisional waivers and cases involving misrepresentation. I bring a thorough, detail-oriented approach to understanding these complexities, ensuring that each client receives a clear and informed pathway forward. I participate in every aspect of the process ensuring that I uphold the values of special care and attention that HBM Law is dedicated to providing to our clients.

When you reach out to our firm, I’ll be your first point of contact. During our call, I’ll conduct a thorough intake, asking specific questions to better understand your situation and outline the next steps. My goal is to ensure you feel seen, heard, and supported, providing a safe and non-judgmental space where your concerns can be openly discussed.

In my past experience, I’ve hired and trained other paralegals, which reflects my commitment to building a strong team dedicated to serving our clients. I believe in a leadership style that enables and empowers others, fostering a collaborative environment that benefits both our clients and the HBM Law team.

Q4. What is the best way to get in touch with HBM Law for more personalized support?

Whether it’s through WhatsApp, phone, or scheduling a consultation on our website, you can expect to hear back from us within 24 hours. I understand that your issues are often time-sensitive and can feel pressing. I’ll conduct a thorough intake and schedule a consultation to dive deeper into your concerns. I recognize that these situations can keep you up at night, filled with anxiety and fear, and I am here to be your trusted voice on immigration matters, helping you find the best long-term solutions.

Q5. What advice would you give to someone applying for a K-1 Fiancé(e) Visa or Spouse visa for the first time?

The most important advice while applying for a Fiancé or Spouse Visa would be to understand the visa type and the requirements of the visa that you are applying for. It is very important to know the eligibility of each visa, especially the intricacies of proving a bona fide relationship, which you can demonstrate through comprehensive evidence, such as photographs or records of communication or trips you took together.

Secondly, filing the forms accurately. One must double-check the details provided in the forms and if there are any errors, as it may delay the application process or result in a straight denial.

Thirdly, be patient with the timeline as applying for a Fiancé Visa or a Spousal Visa could be lengthy. In the meantime, it is important to be informed of the processing time taken by the Service Center you have filed with. During the process, if you are issued any request to provide additional documents or information, respond promptly. If you are uncertain, consult an Immigration Attorney, if necessary, as they can tailor advice specific to your circumstances.

Lastly, be prepared for the interview. Practice, review all the documents that might be required at the interview and be consistent throughout the process. This way, you can increase the chance of approval of your visa.

Q6. What are some common misunderstandings applicants have about the visa interview process?

The most common misunderstanding applicants have about the visa interview process is not realizing the importance of honesty at the time of the interview. Many applicants feel that if they provide any misleading information or if they choose not to disclose certain information, that will never be discovered. They do not realize this can have serious repercussions. Being transparent and consistent demonstrates the intention of the applicant, which can help the officer to assess better.

The other common misunderstanding is visa officers make a pre-determined decision on whether to approve or deny the application. Many applicants may think that way due to a brief interview or the officer seeming indifferent, but that is not necessarily the case. The officers deal with thousands of applicants daily, and their approach and criteria are different with each applicant. A visa interview is a key component as the officers may have certain questions that require clarification from the applicant, which enables them to assess the application fairly. This is, in fact, an opportunity for the applicant to showcase their intention and address all the relevant factors during the interview that may influence the decision.

The third most common misunderstanding is having a previous travel history guarantees approval. While having a travel history is beneficial, it does not automatically guarantee approval, as several factors are taken into consideration while assessing a visa application.

These are a few misunderstandings about the visa interview process, and understanding these can help applicants to have a clearer perspective and improve their chances of a successful outcome.

Q7: Can you share scenarios that HBM Law can help with and what helped them stand out from competitors?

At HBM Law, we are dedicated to providing unwavering advocacy where we represent our clients vigorously when faced with even the most challenging immigration matters. One of our recent successes involved a client who left the country with an expired green card, only to be denied re-entry by CBP. Despite this setback, we worked diligently to refile her removal of conditions outside the typical filing window. Through our efforts, including collaboration with a senator’s office to escalate the matter, we successfully persuaded USCIS to grant her an extension. After 14 long months apart, she was recently reunited with her husband. The clinic where she works as a nurse expressed their gratitude for our commitment, as Himani, Principal Attorney of HBM Law, and I went above and beyond to present compelling reasons and reach out to key liaisons. She is finally home now.

What’s more, we recently assisted a VAWA client from Albania who was facing an abusive situation. Along with her son, she was granted permanent residency through our advocacy. Despite the mental and emotional torture inflicted by her husband, our team was able to navigate the complexities of the process while saving them significant costs through fee waivers designed for low-income families and single mothers. This support enabled her son to secure a federal student loan, which would have not been possible without her green card.

In this case, there was no physical abuse, no medical records, no police report but sufficient mental and emotional abuse/control. It was a complex case and I am very proud of this client who started therapy, had the courage to divorce her U.S. citizen abusive husband, buy a house, and is now working as a mechanical engineer. She is able to raise her two children in a mentally safe environment.

My other win of the week is helping a client and her three children secure immigrant visas through Stockholm. The client and her USC petitioner were childhood sweethearts and were separated due to the Liberian war. She was taken to a refugee camp in Ivory Coast, and eventually to Sweden through UN efforts. They did not know if the other had survived the war until 25 years later they found each other on Facebook. The process took a few years but soon they will be reunited! I am grateful to have played a part in their reunion.

What sets HBM Law apart from competitors is our exceptional commitment to understanding the unique circumstances of each client. Not only do we provide tailored solutions but creative strategies if the need arises that address not only legal challenges but also the emotional toll these situations can have.

Other lawyers told me to look elsewhere as they were afraid to handle my case and wished me “good luck”.

 

“Himani has been FANTASTIC solving my immigration case. I spoke with other lawyers before I was able to find Himani but none of them made me feel more welcomed and more hopeful than Himani. Other lawyers told me to look elsewhere as they were afraid to handle my case and wished me “good luck”.

 

Himani, on the other side, took time to hear more about me and helped me get my green card! She is very knowledgeable and very helpful. I will definitely recommend hiring Himani as a lawyer. She also has a wonderful Paralegal who answers all your question even if you send them late at night. I always got a response in less than 2 hours. I can’t thank them enough for what they have done for me. They are wonderful people to work with. I HIGHLY recommend Himani!”

 

Jonathan Delgado on Avvo.com

Q8. If you were to give our clients one message or piece of advice in terms of immigration law, what would it be?

One crucial piece of advice regarding Immigration Law is to keep all the documentation in place, regardless of whether you are applying for a non-immigrant visa, permanent residency, or citizenship. The immigration process is unpredictable, as the government may request any document at any point in time. So, maintaining documents plays a very crucial role. Moreover, if the Applicant has the slightest doubt about any document or process, they should not hesitate to consult with an Immigration Attorney, as they have the essential expertise in this field and can provide proper guidance and navigation.

Achieve Your Family-Based Immigration Goals with HBM Law Offices in Iowa

For individuals and families seeking reliable, experienced, and comprehensive solutions with United States immigration matters, we encourage you to reach out to us on our contact page at HBM Law to schedule a consultation or call and message us on Whatsapp for inquiries so you can focus on what matters most, those nearest and dearest to you. Our team will be happy to assist you with a clear roadmap.