Immigration Attorney Sunnyvale Helping NRIs with Family Visa, PR, & OCI Applications

For Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) and Overseas Citizens of India (OCIs) residing in the United States, navigating U.S. immigration laws can be complex. Whether you want to sponsor a family member, apply for a Green Card, or understand your OCI card obligations, a trusted immigration attorney Sunnyvale can simplify the process.

At LawCrust Legal Consulting, we specialise in providing cross-border legal solutions for Indian-origin individuals and families seeking U.S. immigration and OCI support.

How an Immigration Attorney Sunnyvale Supports NRIs and OCIs with Family Visas

Navigating the U.S. family-based immigration system can be complex for NRIs and OCIs. An experienced immigration attorney Sunnyvale helps streamline the process by identifying the right visa category—such as IR (Immediate Relative), F (Family Preference), or K-1 (Fiancé(e))—based on your status and goals. From preparing accurate documentation to avoiding delays and ensuring USCIS compliance, the attorney ensures your family visa application is strong, timely, and Customised to meet immigration requirements effectively.

1. OCI Card Process: Simplifying Indian Connections

Although not a U.S. immigration process, the OCI (Overseas Citizen of India) card is crucial for NRIs and their families who wish to maintain strong ties to India.

Key OCI Updates:

MHA Notification (March 4, 2021): OCI holders require special permission for certain activities such as research, journalistic work, or travel to restricted areas. They now enjoy parity with Indian citizens for domestic airfares and entry to monuments, and with NRIs in education and adoption.
PIO to OCI Deadline: PIO cardholders must convert to OCI cards by December 31, 2025.
Renunciation Certificate Requirement: Former Indian nationals must submit this when applying for OCI.

Our team helps you navigate the OCI application via VFS Global, including proof of origin and eligibility under the Citizenship Act, 1955.

2. Immigration Appeals: When Things Go Wrong

If your visa, Green Card, or OCI application is denied, all is not lost. We guide you through appeal strategies including:

Reviewing the denial notice thoroughly
Filing Form I-290B (for USCIS appeals) or EOIR-26 (for BIA appeals)
Meeting strict deadlines (usually within 30 days)
Presenting new legal arguments or clarifying misunderstandings

Some denials, such as B2 visa refusals under INA 214(b), cannot be appealed but may be refiled with stronger evidence.

We help you gather new documentation and restructure your case to improve approval chances.

3. Common Issues Faced by NRIs and OCIs

NRIs and OCIs often encounter:

High documentation burden
Delays due to Indian-born applicant backlogs
Legal complexity in proving non-immigrant intent
Dynamic regulations and policy shifts, such as the June 9, 2025 Presidential Proclamation limiting visa issuance from certain countries (though this does not directly impact Indian citizens)

Our proactive approach keeps you compliant and informed.

Five Most Asked Questions by NRIs and OCIs

Q1: Can an OCI cardholder sponsor family for U.S. immigration?

A: OCI status relates to India. Your ability to sponsor family depends on your U.S. immigration status—U.S. citizen or Green Card holder.

Q2: Can I appeal a B2 tourist visa denial?

A: Most B2 visa denials under INA 214(b) cannot be formally appealed. However, reapplication is possible with stronger evidence, such as proof of financial ties or employment in India.

Q3: What are the recent changes in family-based visa processing?

A: Visa bulletin backlogs for Indian nationals in the EB-2 and EB-3 categories are significant. Check monthly visa bulletin updates with your attorney.

Q4: Do I need to update my OCI card after getting a new passport?

A: Yes. If you’re under 20 or over 50 and obtain a new passport, OCI re-issuance is required. Between ages 21–50, re-issuance is generally not needed unless your appearance changes drastically.

Q5: What are the most common mistakes NRIs make when applying for U.S. Green Cards?

A: Errors include incomplete forms, ineligible sponsorship, or employer-related issues in EB categories. A qualified immigration attorney ensures legal compliance and strategic filing.

Conclusion

Navigating the complexities of U.S. immigration—especially for NRIs and OCIs—requires more than just paperwork; it demands legal expertise, cultural understanding, and a personalised approach. An experienced immigration attorney Sunnyvale can make a significant difference in securing family visas, permanent residency, and OCI documentation smoothly and efficiently. Whether you’re reuniting with loved ones, applying for PR, or managing dual citizenship concerns, timely legal support ensures your rights are protected and your journey remains stress-free. With the right legal partner by your side, NRIs and OCIs can confidently navigate their path toward U.S. immigration success.

Why Choose LawCrust Legal Consulting

LawCrust Legal Consulting, a subsidiary of LawCrust Global Consulting Ltd., is a trusted legal partner for NRIs and Indians across the globe. Backed by a team of over 70 expert lawyers and more than 25 empanelled law firms, we offer a wide range of legal services both in India and internationally. Our expertise spans across legal finance, litigation management, matrimonial disputes, property matters, estate planning, heirship certificates, RERA, and builder-related legal issues.

In addition to personal legal matters, LawCrust also provides expert support in complex corporate areas such as foreign direct investment (FDI), foreign institutional investment (FII), mergers & acquisitions, and fundraising. We also assist clients with OCI and immigration matters, startup solutions, and hybrid consulting solutions. Consistently ranked among the top legal consulting firms in India, LawCrust proudly delivers customised legal solutions across the UK, USA, Canada, Europe, Australia, APAC, and EMEA, offering culturally informed and cross-border expertise to meet the unique needs of the global Indian community.

Comprehensive Legal Help for NRIs in Sunnyvale: Family Visa, Permanent Residency, and OCI Matters