S Visa Attorney in San Diego, California
- Former government attorney
- Reputation for winning complex cases
- Honest evaluations & realistic expectations
- Seventy+ 5-star reviews on Google
S Visa Lawyer in San Diego, California
The S visa is a specialized visa granted to individuals who assist U.S. law enforcement in criminal investigations or prosecutions, including those involving terrorism. This visa allows witnesses and informants to legally remain in the United States while their cooperation is needed. If you’re a person who has witnessed a crime or has critical information for law enforcement, the S visa could offer you the legal protection and status required. Consulting an experienced S visa attorney in San Diego ensures that your application process is handled efficiently and effectively, giving you peace of mind.
What is an S Visa?
An S visa is a unique immigration status for individuals who assist law enforcement by witnessing a crime or providing valuable information in terrorism cases. This visa grants temporary legal status to stay in the U.S. while you cooperate with authorities.
Eligibility Requirements for the S Visa in the U.S.
To qualify for an S visa in the U.S., you must:
- Possess critical information related to a crime or terrorist activities.
- Be willing to cooperate with federal or state law enforcement.
- Receive a certification from the authorities as a key witness or informant.
- Be at personal risk due to your cooperation.
How Can a San Diego S Visa Attorney Help with Your Case?
A San Diego S visa attorney will help:
- Determine your eligibility for the S visa.
- Assist in gathering documentation and preparing your S visa application.
- Work closely with law enforcement to secure your certification.
- Advocate for your rights in immigration court if necessary.
Key Benefits of the S Visa for Witnesses
The S visa offers several advantages:
- Legal status in the United States while assisting law enforcement.
- Eligibility to apply for a green card after fulfilling cooperation requirements.
- Ability to bring immediate family members to the U.S. under derivative visas.
Typical Processing Times for S Visas in California
The timeframe for receiving an S visa can range from several months to over a year. Processing depends on the complexity of your case and the cooperation from law enforcement.
How to Apply for an S Visa in the U.S.
To apply for an S visa:
- Obtain certification from a law enforcement agency.
- File the necessary forms with USCIS.
- Submit supporting documents like evidence of cooperation.
- An immigration attorney can guide you through the entire process.
California S Visa Immigration Lawyer
If you’re seeking to cooperate with U.S. law enforcement and need legal assistance to apply for an S Visa, working with an experienced S Visa attorney in San Diego can make all the difference. Our knowledgeable legal team will guide you through the complex S Visa process, ensuring that your immigration status is secured while you assist in critical investigations. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward protecting your status in the U.S. while cooperating with law enforcement.
Practice Areas
Criminal Defense Immigration Lawyer
Military Parole In Place Lawyer
Biden Parole in Place Program Lawyer
Employment-Based Immigration Lawyer
Family-Based Immigration Lawyer
Non-immigrant Temporary Visas Lawyer
Business Visa Immigration Lawyer
Investor Visas Lawyer: E-1/E-2, EB-5
Student Visas Lawyer: F-1, M-1, J-1
Naturalization Immigration Lawyer
Deportation & Removal Defense Lawyer
Immigration Lawyers Specializing in Waivers
Asylum Refugee Protection Lawyer
United States Citizenship Lawyer
Adam Walsh Act Immigration Lawyer
National Interest Waiver Lawyer
Diversity Visa Immigration Lawyer
Diplomatic Visa Immigration Lawyer




Our Practice Areas
NON-IMMIGRANT VISAS
FAMILY IMMIGRATION
U VISAS
INVESTOR VISAS
POST-CONVICTION RELIEF
IMMIGRANT CRIMINAL DEFENSE
DEPORTATION AND REMOVAL DEFENSE
WAIVERS OF INADMISSABILITY
What Our Client Say About Us
I cannot say enough great things about Anna and her wonderful team. My husband and I unfortunately received awful advice from previous counsel regarding an immigration issue which resulted in my being denied entry into the USA. We secured Anna’s services following this traumatic experience and she was brilliant in not only explaining the complicated systems and processes but also, making us feel heard and understood. She is sharp, brilliant and personable. Thank you Anna!
I highly recommend Anna Hysell Robin to anyone who needs an immigration attorney you can trust. You can rely on her experience, proficiency and knowledge to help you. She has been a great source for me and my family when immigration issues have presented to us.
Did a consultation with North County Immigration about getting my citizenship. Ended up using their Review Service which was a great alternative. I prepared my application myself and then she reviewed my application to make sure it was correct and gave great suggestions of what documents I should include. Definitely recommend their office. They are reasonable and don’t rip you off.
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Are you facing immigration challenges and seeking expert guidance to navigate the complex legal landscape? North County Immigration is here to help!
What Sets Us Apart
Former Government Attorney
Attorney Anna M. Hysell is a former Government attorney for both the U.S. Department of Justice and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.
Winning Complex Cases
We think like the interviewing officer or opposing government lawyer. We have earned a reputation for taking on and winning complicated immigration cases.
Experienced Litigation Team
In a field with rampant fraud and incompetence, where many are taken advantage of, our experienced team protects the rights of our clients, ensuring that each receives fair and just treatment.
Commitment To Helping
We strive to listen to our client’s and minimize their stress. We work each day to ensure our client matters are handled properly and communicate the progress at the different stages of the matter.
Upfront Review Process
During your consultation, a full analysis is made including a review of all relevant documentation. The weaknesses in the case and how to overcome them are determined, as well as what evidence will be necessary and what the most efficient way is for the client to get the results they want.
Full Service Law Firm
The Law Offices of Anna M. Hysell is one of the top civil rights firms in the San Diego area. We strategically design our lawsuits to have an impact from the start and are not afraid to take on the most challenging cases. Our goal is to always achieve justice for our clients.
Case Results
Successful Deportation Defense for a Military Family
NCI helped a client with a prior successfully avoid deportation on the grounds of hardship as the defendant’s children’s mother was deployed.
Successful Asylum Claim from the Ukraine War
NCI helped an asylee seeking to escape the devastation and heartbreak caused by the unprovoked actions of the Putin Invasion of Ukraine.
B-2 Visa Extensions Granted to Keep a Family Together
NCI was able to get 6-month extensions approved for 2 minors to stay with their ill father in the United States while he undergoes medical treatment.
Removal Stopped
NCI was able to halt the removal of a Brazilian national that was scheduled to be deported out of Houston International on the grounds of due process violations.
Reunification of an Escondido Family
NCI successfully helped an Escondido woman and her mother overcome some legal challenges and gain immigration status, allowing them to reunite.
Removal Order Rescinded
NCI was able to help rescind a removal order for our client who had the unfortunate luck of previously receiving poor counsel.
S Visa Program Attorney FAQs
Can I apply for a green card after holding an S visa?
Yes, in most cases, S visa holders can apply for a green card after fulfilling the required cooperation with law enforcement agencies. However, the process is not automatic, and applicants must meet additional criteria, including proving that their assistance was substantial and that they continue to be eligible. It’s essential to work with an experienced immigration attorney to ensure a successful transition to permanent residency.
Can I travel outside the U.S. on an S visa?
Yes, S visa holders can travel outside the U.S., but it’s important to consult with an attorney before doing so. International travel could complicate your visa status or impact your cooperation with law enforcement, and re-entry into the U.S. may require additional documentation. For expert legal support, consider North County Immigration.
What is the difference between an S Visa and other visa types?
The S visa is specifically for individuals who assist U.S. law enforcement by providing critical information in criminal or terrorism investigations. Unlike other visas, which may be for employment, family reunification, or tourism, the S visa is directly tied to cooperation with authorities and is available only to those who can offer significant help in prosecuting or investigating serious crimes.
How long can you stay in the U.S. with an S visa?
An S visa is typically valid for up to three years, and it cannot be extended. Once the visa period expires, the visa holder must either apply for permanent residency or explore other legal options to remain in the United States. Failure to do so may result in the visa holder being required to leave the country.
How is an S visa different from the U Visa?
The S visa is for individuals who assist law enforcement by providing critical information in criminal or terrorism investigations, while the U visa is for victims of certain crimes who help authorities in prosecuting criminals. The S visa is tied to law enforcement cooperation as a witness or informant, while the U visa is for victims seeking protection and legal status in the U.S.
Can an S visa be revoked?
Yes, an S visa can be revoked if the visa holder fails to fulfill the cooperation agreement with law enforcement or if the assistance is no longer deemed necessary. Visa revocation can lead to deportation or loss of legal status in the U.S. For expert legal support, consider North County Immigration.
How do I extend my S visa?
Unfortunately, the S visa cannot be extended. Once the three-year period ends, you must either apply for permanent residency (a green card) or seek another legal immigration status to remain in the U.S.
How do I qualify for an S-5 visa as a witness?
To qualify for an S-5 visa, you must provide reliable, critical information to law enforcement in a criminal investigation, and your cooperation must be certified by a federal or state law enforcement agency. This certification proves that your presence in the U.S. is essential to the investigation.
Is there a cap on S visas issued each year?
Yes, there is a cap on the number of S visas issued each year. The U.S. government allocates 200 S-5 visas for witnesses and 50 S-6 visas for terrorism informants annually. For expert legal support, consider North County Immigration.
What happens if I lose contact with law enforcement during my cooperation?
If you lose contact with law enforcement or fail to continue cooperating, your S visa may be revoked, and you could lose your legal status in the U.S. It’s essential to maintain ongoing communication with law enforcement to ensure compliance with visa conditions.
Can I apply for an S visa while in the U.S.?
Yes, you can apply for an S visa while in the U.S., provided you meet the eligibility requirements, including certification from a law enforcement agency that your cooperation is essential to a criminal or terrorism investigation.
Can I switch from another visa type to an S visa?
Yes, you may switch from another visa type to an S visa if you meet the eligibility criteria and can provide valuable information to law enforcement. It’s essential to work with an attorney to ensure a smooth transition between visa statuses.
What happens if my S visa application is denied?
If your S visa application is denied, you may be able to appeal the decision or reapply, depending on the reasons for the denial. Consulting an immigration attorney is essential to strengthen your application and resolve any issues. Contact us for legal support.