As 2026 begins, many immigrants are starting the year with important questions about their immigration status in the United States, pending cases, and how long different processes are really taking. With long backlogs, changing procedures, and widespread misinformation online, it’s more important than ever to rely on clear, accurate guidance from experienced immigration professionals.
At Landerholm Immigration, A.P.C., we regularly hear these concerns from individuals and families seeking clarity about their options under U.S. immigration law.
Below is a practical overview of some of the most common immigration questions we are seeing at the start of 2026—and what you should know if any of these situations apply to you.
Immigration Processing Delays in 2026
One clear reality heading into 2026 is that immigration processing times remain long across many categories. Green cards, work permits, visas, and waivers are all facing delays due to backlogs and limited government resources.
For example:
- Cancellation of removal (deportation) cases can take anywhere from 2 to 4 years after a judge grants relief before the green card is actually issued.
- Many applicants are approved by an immigration judge but still wait years for USCIS to produce the permanent resident card.
These delays are frustrating, but they are unfortunately common in today’s immigration system. Understanding this reality helps applicants set realistic expectations and plan accordingly.
How Long Does a Green Card Through Marriage Take?
A very common question we receive at Landerholm Immigration involves how long it takes to get a green card through marriage to a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.
In general:
- Adjustment of status inside the U.S. (when eligible): approximately 2 years
- Consular processing with a provisional waiver (when the person entered without inspection): approximately 5 years
The longer timeline usually applies when the applicant must leave the U.S. for a consular interview and request forgiveness (a waiver) for unlawful presence.
Every case is different, and timelines depend heavily on how someone entered the U.S., prior immigration history, and whether waivers are required.
Green Cards Through Family Petitions
Another frequent concern involves family-based petitions, especially when the petitioner is not a U.S. citizen.
Key points to know:
- A U.S. citizen sibling cannot file a waiver for a brother or sister who entered unlawfully.
- In most cases, waivers require a qualifying parent or spouse who is a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.
- Some individuals may qualify under Section 245(i), which can allow adjustment of status inside the U.S., but this is very case-specific.
Because these rules are strict, family petitions should always be carefully evaluated before filing to avoid costly mistakes.
Visa U Questions and Related Issues
Many people with Visa U cases have questions about derivatives (children or family members included in the petition), lost documents, or waivers.
Some general guidance includes:
- If a child is a derivative on a Visa U petition and loses work authorization or documents, a replacement may be possible.
- Waivers filed with a Visa U petition may need to be updated or expanded later if USCIS identifies additional grounds of inadmissibility.
- Filing early waivers can be helpful, but they must be thorough and tailored to the person’s full immigration history.
Visa U cases are complex and often take years, making a well-planned legal strategy especially important.
Deportation, Prior Removal, and Reopening Cases
For individuals who were deported or are currently outside the U.S., eligibility to return depends on why the deportation occurred.
Important factors include:
- Whether the deportation was based on a serious criminal offense
- Whether immigration bars apply
- Whether reopening or reconsideration is legally possible
Some people may still qualify for consular processing, even after many years in the U.S., but this requires a detailed legal analysis of their immigration record.
Why Full Case Evaluations Matter
Many people ask why immigration attorneys cannot simply give quick answers without reviewing the full case. The reason is simple: immigration law is highly fact-specific.
A small detail—such as a prior entry, an old application, or a missed deadline—can completely change eligibility. That is why at Landerholm Immigration, we emphasize full case evaluations, careful document review, and strategic planning rather than one-size-fits-all answers.
Final Thoughts for 2026
As we move further into 2026, immigrants should expect:
- Continued processing delays
- Increased scrutiny of applications
- Little room for error in filings
The best approach is to stay informed, plan ahead, and seek guidance from a licensed U.S. immigration attorney before making decisions that could affect your future.
If you have questions about your immigration case or want to understand your legal options, contact Landerholm Immigration, A.P.C. today. You can call +1 (510) 491-0291 or visit https://www.landerholmimmigration.com/ to schedule a consultation and get trusted guidance from a licensed U.S. immigration attorney.