Immigration Law Attorneys in Tulsa, Oklahoma Serving Clients Nationwide

What You Need to Know to Stay Safe

Scams targeting immigrants are becoming more common. Fraudsters are taking advantage of fear, uncertainty, and legal vulnerability to steal money, personal information, or even property. These scams can range from fake immigration consultants to impersonators posing as ICE agents or USCIS officials.

Common Scams to Watch Out For:

1. Impersonators of Government Officials or Lawyers

Scammers may pretend to be from USCIS, ICE, or law offices. They might call, text, or email demanding payment or personal information. Reminder: USCIS will never ask for money over the phone or email.

2. Fake Immigration Consultants and “Notarios”

In Latin America, “notarios” are highly trained legal professionals. But in the U.S., a notary public is not authorized to offer legal immigration advice/counsel. Beware of anyone offering legal help who is not a licensed immigration attorney or accredited representative.

3. Charging for Free Government Forms

Government immigration forms are free. You should never pay for access to these forms.

4. Fake Government Websites

Only trust websites ending in .gov. Some scammers set up look-alike websites to collect fees or personal data.

5. False Promises of Fast Results or Guaranteed Outcomes

If someone promises you quick citizenship, work permits, or “special pathways” in exchange for money—it’s likely a scam. Immigration is a legal process with no shortcuts.

Red Flags:

• Requests for money via phone, text, or email.
• Threats of deportation or arrest if you don’t pay quickly.
• Emails with suspicious links asking for personal information.
• Ads or social media posts that sound too good to be true.

How to Protect Yourself:

• Never give personal info or payment to anyone who contacts you unexpectedly.
• Confirm the credentials of anyone offering immigration help.
• Don’t trust promises of guaranteed results.
• Get your legal advice from licensed immigration attorneys or DOJ-accredited representatives.

A Message from Rivas & Associates:

At Rivas and Associates, we prioritize your security. Please be aware that we never send payment links, never request payments through social media platforms, and will never insist on a specific method or portal for payment. If you are ever unsure or have concerns, we encourage you to contact our office directly to confirm any communication and protect yourself from potential scams.

Are you a green card holder who needs to leave the U.S. for an extended time but still wants to keep your permanent resident status? Then, you may need a re-entry permit. At Rivas & Associates, we help immigrants protect their future in the U.S., even when life takes them outside the United States for extended periods.

In this blog, we’ll explain how to get a re-entry permit, who needs one, and how our team can help you through every step.

What Is a Re-Entry Permit?

A re-entry permit is a travel document for lawful permanent residents (green card holders) who need to leave the U.S. for more than 6 months but less than 2 years. It helps prove that you didn’t abandon your lawful permanent resident status, making returning to the U.S. much easier.

Without a re-entry permit, being gone too long may lead to questions at the border—or worse, you could risk losing your green card altogether.

Why Do People Apply for a Re-Entry Permit?

There are many reasons why green card holders might need to travel abroad for extended periods, including:

• Taking care of sick family members
• Long-term work assignments
• Studying abroad
• Dealing with personal emergencies

No matter the reason, if you’re a green card holder planning to be outside the U.S. for a long time, a re-entry permit is important to protect your permanent resident status.

What Are the Requirements for a Re-Entry Permit?

To apply for a re-entry permit, you must:

• Be a lawful permanent resident (have a valid green card)
• Be physically present in the U.S. when you apply (you must file Form I-131 while still in the U.S.)
• Plan to be outside the United States for extended periods (usually more than 6 months)
• Show you intend to return and keep your home in the United States

You’ll also need to provide:

• A copy of your green card (front and back)
• Two passport-style photos
• A detailed explanation of why you need to travel abroad
• Fingerprints (biometrics), which are taken at a USCIS office in the U.S.

Important: If you’ve spent a lot of time outside the U.S. in the past or if this is not your first re-entry permit, United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) may ask more questions or limit the validity of the new permit.

How To Get a Re-Entry Permit: Step-by-Step

Step 1: Talk to an Immigration Lawyer

Before doing anything, talk to a trusted immigration lawyer for green card. They can review your situation and help you avoid mistakes. At Rivas & Associates, we’ve helped many people in Tulsa and across the United States understand if a re-entry permit is right for them.

Step 2: Complete Form I-131

This is the official application for a travel document. You’ll fill it out with personal information and the reason you’re requesting the re-entry permit.

Step 3: Submit Supporting Documents

These may include:

• Your green card
• Proof of your planned travel abroad
• Documents showing ties to the U.S. (like a lease, job, or family)

Step 4: Attend a Biometrics Appointment

After you apply, the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will schedule a biometrics appointment. You must be in the U.S. to complete this step. They will take your fingerprints and photo for background checks.

You’ll also be required to attend your biometrics appointment even if you’ve done one before. Missing this step could result in a denied application.

Step 5: Wait for a Decision

If approved, you’ll receive the re-entry permit by mail. It’s usually valid for up to 2 years and lets you return to the U.S. without needing a returning resident visa.

Common Questions About Re-Entry Permits

Q: Can I leave the U.S. while the application is pending?

A: Yes—but only after you complete your biometrics appointment. If you leave before biometrics, USCIS may deny your application.

Q: How long does it take to get approved?

A: It can take 8 to 12 months or more. Applying early is important if you know you’ll need to travel abroad.

Q: Do I need a re-entry permit for a short trip?

A: No. If you’re gone for less than 6 months and don’t travel abroad often, your green card alone is enough. But if you plan to be gone for extended periods, apply for a re-entry permit.

Q: What happens if I return without a re-entry permit?

A: Border protection officers may question your intention to keep your permanent resident status. In some cases, they may refuse entry or recommend removal proceedings. That’s why having the proper travel document is so important.

Why Work With “Green Card Lawyers Near Me”?

Immigration paperwork is serious business. One small mistake can lead to delays—or even worse, loss of permanent resident status. By working with “green card lawyers near me,” you get experienced, hands-on help from people who understand what’s at stake.

Our immigration lawyers in Tulsa, Oklahoma and Oklahoma City will:

• Guide you through the process
• Submit all documents correctly
• Help avoid unnecessary delays
• Be there if any issues come up with border protection

We help lawful permanent residents avoid risks that could cost them their status and peace of mind.

Don’t Risk Your Green Card Status

Leaving the country doesn’t have to mean risking your future. If you’re a green card holder planning to leave the U.S. for more than six months, don’t wait until it’s too late.

At Rivas & Associates, we make the process easier and more understandable. When you work with us, you’re not just hiring an immigration lawyer—you’re gaining a team that genuinely cares about your future.

You’ve worked hard to earn your lawful permanent resident status. Don’t risk losing it because of a long trip abroad or paperwork errors. Whether you’re leaving to care for family, work overseas, or handle a personal emergency, we’ll help you protect everything you’ve built here in the U.S.

Contact us today at (844) 37-RIVAS(844) 37-RIVAS or complete our online contact form to schedule a consultation. We’re proud to serve the immigrant community in Tulsa and across the United States.

Empowering Immigrants, Building Futures!

Copyright © 2025. Rivas & Associates. All rights reserved.

The information in this blog post (“post”) is provided for general informational purposes only and may not reflect the current law in your jurisdiction. No information in this post should be construed as legal advice from the individual author or the law firm, nor is it intended to be a substitute for legal counsel on any subject matter. No reader of this post should act or refrain from acting based on any information included in or accessible through this post without seeking the appropriate legal or other professional advice on the particular facts and circumstances at issue from a lawyer licensed in the recipient’s state, country, or other appropriate licensing jurisdiction.

Rivas & Associates
2930 S Yale Ave STE A
Tulsa, OK 74114
(844) 37-RIVAS(844) 37-RIVAS
https://www.rivasassociates.com/

The Trump administration has made it very clear that its war against undocumented immigrants is only just beginning. Iconic cities like New York, Denver, and Chicago have witnessed raids and mass arrests. And in Los Angeles, waves of protests are being felt, signaling turbulent times.

Reference La Semana: PDF URL

These are extraordinary times, and many immigrants feel vulnerable. ICE raids and targeted arrests have increased, making it essential to have a family preparedness plan in place in case of an emergency or separation from children or other loved ones. Because child custody and guardianship laws vary by state, it is important to understand the rules that apply in your state.

If you are concerned about securing access to your property, including bank accounts and other tangible assets, be sure to check with your bank, mortgage lender, auto lender, etc., for best practices on accessing your money and property from abroad.

This guide is not a substitute for legal advice. If you have specific questions about your case, contact an attorney. Our goal is to help families in Oklahoma begin important conversations about how to respond in the event of an immigration emergency.

Things to Consider:

I. Make a Child Care Plan

1. If you have children under 18, choose a guardian to care for them. This person does not need to be a U.S. citizen, but having legal status is recommended. The guardian must be 18 or older.

If you live in Oklahoma, complete and notarize a Standby Guardianship form. Rivas and Associates offers this service free of charge—no client relationship required. This document is valid for one year.

The Standby Guardianship form gives your chosen caregiver temporary authority to make decisions about your child’s education and medical care and to respond to inquiries from Child Protective Services.

You should also notarize a Travel Authorization form giving your caregiver permission to travel with your minor children (under age 16) to reunite with you if you are deported. Rivas and Associates can assist with this as well, free of charge.

Make sure your children have valid passports. The Community Advocate at Rivas and Associates can help you apply for a U.S. passport for your U.S. citizen children. Both parents typically must sign the application for children under 16; additional documentation may be required if one parent is absent. Passports are required for international travel.

• Write down any medical conditions and medications your child has.
• List key emergency contacts, such as your pediatrician, school counselor, and close relatives, including their phone numbers and other contact information.
• Store all important documents—passports, birth certificates, notarized forms, attorney contact info, Social Security cards, and medical records—in a secure place your caregiver can easily access.

II. Concerning Property and Other Assets

If your bank offers online banking, download the mobile app now so you can access your funds from abroad. Most banks offer this option. Keep the international customer service number for your bank handy.

For tangible property—such as a home, vehicle, or other physical assets—we can help you complete a notarized Power of Attorney (POA) form. This allows you to designate someone you trust to act on your behalf.

A POA authorizes your designated agent to manage:

• Real property
• Tangible personal property
• Stocks and bonds
• Bank accounts and other financial institutions
• Business operations
• Insurance and annuities
• Estates, trusts, and other beneficial interests
• Claims and litigation
• Personal and family maintenance
• Government benefits (including military or civil service)
• Retirement plans and taxes

Reach out to the Community Advocate at Rivas and Associates if you need help preparing a notarized POA for property-related matters.

Copyright © 2025. Rivas & Associates. All rights reserved.

The information in this blog post (“post”) is provided for general informational purposes only and may not reflect the current law in your jurisdiction. No information in this post should be construed as legal advice from the individual author or the law firm, nor is it intended to be a substitute for legal counsel on any subject matter. No reader of this post should act or refrain from acting based on any information included in or accessible through this post without seeking the appropriate legal or other professional advice on the particular facts and circumstances at issue from a lawyer licensed in the recipient’s state, country, or other appropriate licensing jurisdiction.

Rivas & Associates
2930 S Yale Ave STE A
Tulsa, OK 74114
(844) 37-RIVAS(844) 37-RIVAS
https://www.rivasassociates.com/

TULSA, Oklahoma — Lorena Rivas, Senior Attorney and CEO of Rivas & Associates proudly supported an initiative led by Dolores Huerta Elementary’s Tulsa Changemakers cohort of 4th and 5th graders. The students, guided by their coach Alexander Collin, took on the challenge of addressing deportation and anti-immigrant sentiments affecting their community. Through this collaborative effort, the students sparked meaningful dialogue and empowered their classmates and families with valuable resources.

The project began in March when Coach Collin connected with Rivas & Associates. The students, motivated by worries shared by their classmates, wanted to make their school and community feel safe and supported. Lorena met with six students in the cohort on March 28th to provide them with insights into the complexities of immigration and deportation.

During their discussion, the students asked pressing and heartfelt questions like, “Why are people getting deported?” and “What can we do to stop this from happening?” They expressed their desire to support their classmates and raise awareness within their wider community.

To equip them with tools for action, Lorena shared Know Your Rights material, offering a practical way for students to educate themselves, their peers, and parents. The highlight of the collaboration occurred on April 23rd, when the students hosted a Know Your Rights assembly at Dolores Huerta Elementary, an event that offered families much-needed information on handline immigration challenges and fostering a sense of security within their community.

This project culminated in a powerful Pitch Night presentation, where the students showcased their work and advocacy efforts to parents and community members. Their dedication demonstrated the power of young voices in driving change and tackling sensitive issues head-on.

“We are honored to have played a role in this meaningful initiative,” said Lorena Rivas. “The courage and determination shown by these students remind us all of the importance of creating a more inclusive and understanding community.”

About Rivas & Associates

Empowering Immigrants, Building Futures

Rivas & Associates is a leading immigration law firm based in Tulsa, Oklahoma, committed to helping immigrants across the United States make their American dream an American reality. Founded by Lorena Rivas, the firm is known for its innovative approach, strategic advice, and unwavering dedication to securing positive results for its clients and their families. Rivas & Associates offers representation in a wide range of immigration matters, from family-based petitions to deportation defense, naturalization, and more.

Effective April 2025, a significant policy change now affects how immigrants receive a Social Security Number (SSN) after being approved for a work permit (EAD). If you or someone you know recently received employment authorization, here’s what you need to know.

What’s the New Rule for Getting an SSN?

Previously, many immigrants received their SSN automatically through the Enumeration Beyond Entry (EBE) program. Once your EAD card was approved, the SSA would mail your SSN automatically—no further action was needed.

As of April 2025, the EBE program has been suspended. If you are approved for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) but not a green card, you must now visit a Social Security office in person to apply for your SSN.

✅ Green card holders are not affected—they will still receive automatic SSNs through the EBE program.

Why This Change Matters

This change affects millions of immigrants navigating the U.S. immigration system. In 2024 alone, over 3.24 million work permits were issued. An estimated 60,000–75,000 additional people per week will now need SSA appointments, likely increasing wait times and confusion at local offices.

What Documents Do You Need for an SSA Appointment?

If you’ve recently received your EAD and need to get your SSN:

1. Schedule an appointment at your local SSA office.
2. Bring the following documents:

• Valid Employment Authorization Card (EAD)
• Valid passport or birth certificate
• Proof of address (e.g., utility bill, lease agreement)

The SSA will verify your documents with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Once approved, your Social Security card will be mailed to your home.

Need Help? Rivas & Associates Has Your Back

At Rivas & Associates, we know this change may feel overwhelming. That’s why we offer more than legal advice—we provide dependable, human support.

For Clients in the Tulsa Area:

📍 We can personally accompany you to your SSA appointment to help make the process easier.

For Clients Nationwide:

📞 We support clients across the U.S. by:

• Reviewing your documents in advance
• Explaining what to expect at your appointment
• Joining you by phone during your SSA visit, if needed

Whether you need guidance on your EAD and SSN process, or help preparing for your SSA visit, our team is here for you. We combine passion, initiative, and respect to provide the support you deserve.

Contact Rivas & Associates today for trusted guidance on how to get your Social Security Number after receiving a work permit. You don’t have to do this alone—we’re here to help.

About the Author

Linda Allegro, Ph.D., is the Community Advocate at Rivas and Associates. She holds a doctorate in Political Science from The New School for Social Research in New York City and has taught extensively on transnational migration, Latino studies, and Central American politics.

A seasoned activist and community organizer, Linda is the founder of a Tulsa-based community center dedicated to worker empowerment. She brings decades of experience in grassroots mobilization, education, and advocacy to her work at Rivas, where she has served since 2022.

The law was enjoined last year pursuant to a request from the United States. The Trump Administration dismissed the lawsuit and Oklahoma has started enforcing the law.

DALLAS, Texas, April 15, 2025 – Rivas & Associates proudly announces that Senior Attorney & CEO Lorena Rivas and Supervising Attorney Elissa Stiles have secured a major victory in Immigration Court in Dallas, Texas. The case, which presented significant legal challenges, resulted in a positive outcome for a deserving client seeking to provide a better future for their family. This victory reaffirms the firm’s reputation for taking on complex cases and delivering results that change lives.

Reflecting on the achievement, Lorena Rivas stated, “This case is a testament to the power of persistence and the trust our clients place in us. Winning this case was not just about handling legal complexities, but about defending a family’s hope and future. We stand strong with immigrants as they pursue their dreams in the United States.”

Elissa Stiles, who was instrumental in winning the case, added, “We understand how overwhelming the immigration process can feel, especially for clients who have been met with obstacles elsewhere. That’s why we fight so hard for every individual we represent. This victory is a reminder that determination, backed by compassion and competency, can overcome seemingly insurmountable odds.”

The successful outcome underscores the unique value proposition of Rivas & Associates. Representing clients nationwide, the firm prides itself on offering strategic advice and informed legal representation. With personal experience in immigration journeys and a team comprised largely of first-generation immigrants, the firm connects with the struggles and aspirations of its clients. Rivas & Associates is committed to providing hope and solutions in cases where others might have given up.

“Our team’s dedication goes beyond legal representation,” Rivas added. “We empower immigrants and their families to move through the process with confidence, knowing they have skilled advocates by their side.”

Rivas & Associates continues to focus on keeping families together and overcoming barriers within the complex immigration system. If you or someone you know is in need of immigration assistance, visit www.rivasassociates.com or contact the firm at (844) 37-RIVAS(844) 37-RIVAS today to learn how they empower immigrants and build futures.

About Rivas & Associates

Empowering Immigrants, Building Futures

Rivas & Associates is a leading immigration law firm based in Tulsa, Oklahoma, committed to helping immigrants across the United States make their American dream an American reality. Founded by Lorena Rivas, the firm is known for its innovative approach, strategic advice, and unwavering dedication to securing positive results for its clients and their families. Rivas & Associates offers representation in a wide range of immigration matters, from family-based petitions to deportation defense, naturalization, and more.