Your Friendly Neighborhood VSO By Pete Scherer The Department of Veterans Affairs offers a treasure trove of benefits and resources. Unfortunately, like most government systems, navigating it can make the average veteran feel like a job in itself. The websites can be dense, the policy language can be heavy, and knowing where to even start isn’t always obvious. Enter the…
Do you need to print out a PDF? Struggling to navigate a government website? Your local public library might be able to help The San Antonio Public Library offers print services during regular operating hours. Black and white prints cost ten cents per page side, and color prints cost $1 per copyr. Staff are on hand to help if you’re…
For many veterans, a lifetime of service leaves behind more than just medals and memories. Injuries sustained during service inevitably results in paperwork, doctor appointments, and dealing with the VA. As these veterans continue to age, managing the various obligations can become a massive burden. Eventually it reaches a point where someone needs to step in. But where do you…
Bu Pete Scherer Are you a service member or veteran who suffered a traumatic brain injury (TBI)? Regardless of your answer, you may be able to help the VA’s ongoing effort to treat the condition. The VA Biorepository Brain Bank (VABBB) is looking for volunteers to donate brain tissue for their research efforts. “If you suffered a blast or other…
How can I find a good immigration lawyer? Sometimes you might need outside help to navigate the bureaucratic challenges of immigration. Here are some tips to help you find a good immigration lawyer: Resources: American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) – They provide a Military Assistance Program to help active-duty service members find pro-bone immigration attorneys. Military OneSource –This platform…
What should I know about sponsoring a family member? As a foreign born spouse you cannot directly sponsor your parents until you become a citizen yourself. If they are currently permanent residents, they can apply for citizenship regardless of your current status. You’re correct; the naturalization options primarily focus on spouses and children of U.S. service members. This does limit…
I have a child from a previous marriage? What are my options? If your spouse is not the biological parent of your child, there are still pathways to help their naturalization process. Adoption: If your spouse has adopted your child or is a legal guardian, the child can benefit from your spouse’s military status. They will still need to…
I am a foreign-born spouse with an ailing parent. What are my options to assist their naturalization? According to the official USCIS website, spouses and children of servicemembers may be eligible for expedited naturalization. But what paths are available for other family members such as parents or siblings? If you are a naturalized citizen,you can sponsor your family for…
Does my time abroad count toward residence requirements? INA 319(e) makes a special provision for eligible military spouses by allowing time accompanying a spouse on assignment to count towards the continuous residence and physical presence requirements. To be eligible: You must be a LPR who is married to a member of the U.S. Armed Forces You must be authorized…
CAN I BE NATURALIZED OVERSEAS AS A MILITARY SPOUSE? The INA permits eligible military spouses to be naturalized abroad without having to travel to the United States through INA 319(e). In order to be eligible, a lawful permanent resident must meet the following requirements: You must be authorized to accompany your spouse abroad per their official orders. You must…
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