First time DWI in Texas and Immigration consequences

prayin_hope

Registered Users (C)
Hello everyone,

I recently got arrested for a DWI offense (first time class B misdemeanor and no other arrests in my history) in Texas and my current visa expires in July 2006, after which I need to obtain a visa extension. I understand that I cannot go to Canada to get my visa extended as a result of the DWI conviction / arrest (I am not convicted yet, but that could be the worst case scenario). I expect to know the result of my case early next year.

I would like to get some advice regarding the issues that I have to deal with regards to visa stamping and future green card processing.

1) What are the problems that I could face at the US embassy in India (esp. Chennai)? What would be the lead time for a visa stamping? What documents should I take with me during my interview for a visa stamping at US embassy in India?

2) What are the chances that this will affect my green card and citizenship in the US at a later stage?

3) Are there any other serious immigration consequences due to a DWI arrest / conviction?

4) How long will it take for the arrest to show up on my record when one typically runs a background check?

5) Will the application for my labor certification (PERM) be affected as a result of the arrest / DWI charge? My lawyers are planning to apply for my labor certification in a couple of months. Should I postpone the application till I know the outcome of the DWI charge?

6) I have an appointment with my company's immigration lawyer on thrusday and planning to consult an independent immigration lawyer before the meeting. I think we might be applying for my Labor certification using Perm processing. Do you think I should tell him everything about the DWI? Nobody in my company knows about this still.


I would appreciate any help and feedback on these issues.

Thankyou.
 
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