Our Services
Visas
As an international student coming to the United States, there are three different student visas that you could be issued: F1 Visa, J1 Visa or M1 Visa. The F1 and J1 visas allow for the possibility of employment in the US during your stay, while the M1 Visa does not. You need to be familiar with the types of visas, how they impact your financing while in the USA and how to go through the application and arrival processes.
Ask us for our free immigration guide to learn more about the process.
Update your immigration status by scheduling a consultation with us.
Visas
If you’re trying to come to the United States or stay here legally, choosing the right visa is critical. The process can be confusing, overwhelming, and frustrating — especially if you’re trying to do it alone.
You may be wondering:
Which visa is right for my situation?
How long will it take to apply?
Can I stay in the U.S. while I apply?
What if I overstay or violate the visa rules?
We’re here to answer those questions — and give you a clear path forward.
Visas
Our immigration law firm in Texas helps clients apply for, renew, and adjust the following visa types:
Family-Based Visas
Fiancé Visas (K-1)
Spouse Visas (CR-1 / IR-1)
Visas for children and parents of U.S. citizens
Help with Adjustment of Status after entry
Employment-Based Visas
Temporary Work Visas (H-1B, L-1, O-1, TN)
Green Cards through employment (PERM / EB visas)
Employer sponsorship guidance
Student Visas
F-1 (Academic Students)
M-1 (Vocational Students)
J-1 (Exchange Visitors)
Help with maintaining status, OPT, and STEM extensions
Visitor Visas
B-1/B-2 Visas (Tourist & Business Travel)
Extensions, change of status, and overstay risk management
Humanitarian & Special Circumstance Visas
U Visa (Victims of Crime)
VAWA (for victims of domestic violence)
Asylum & Refugee Applications
LGBTQ+ Protections & Waivers
Whatever your reason for coming to the U.S., we help you choose the safest, most strategic visa option.
Visas
Immigration forms are full of deadlines, fine print, and rules. One wrong answer can lead to rejection, delay, or worse — denial of entry. When you work with us, we’ll:
Help you choose the correct visa for your goals
Explain the full process in plain English or Spanish
Complete and file your forms accurately
Prepare you for consulate interviews (if required)
Guide you on what to do after you arrive or adjust status
Visas
Already In The U.S., But Worried About Your Visa?
Many people accidentally fall out of status because:
They overstayed a tourist or student visa
They worked without authorization
They misunderstood visa expiration vs. authorized stay
They changed schools or jobs without legal updates
We can help with:
Visa extensions
Change of status (e.g., tourist to student)
Adjustment of status to a green card
Waivers for unlawful presence or visa violations
Don’t let confusion or fear keep you stuck — get legal advice now.
Visas
Let's Start This Journey Together
You don’t have to keep living in fear. You don’t have to figure it out on your own. And you don’t have to risk everything to get the right help.
Start now to speak with a trusted immigration attorney in Lubbock. We’ll listen to your story, explain your options, and fight to keep your family together. Because when you take this step — you take back control.
Why Choose Gilda McDowell?
Meet Gilda McDowell, a distinguished immigration attorney committed to serving the diverse needs of Lubbock, TX, and its vibrant community. With a passion for helping individuals and families navigate the complexities of immigration law, Gilda McDowell brings a wealth of experience and expertise to every case she handles. Her deep understanding of the intricacies surrounding immigration matters, including green card applications, family-based and employment-based immigration, citizenship, adjustment of status, and fiancé visas, makes her an invaluable resource for those seeking reliable legal counsel. Gilda’s personalized approach, attention to detail, and unwavering dedication to her clients’ well-being have solidified her reputation as a trusted advocate in Lubbock. Whether you’re pursuing a dream of U.S. citizenship, reuniting with loved ones, or exploring employment opportunities, Gilda McDowell is your ally in turning your immigration aspirations into reality.
Services
Comprehensive Immigration Services in Lubbock, TX
Gilda McDowell immigration lawyer Lubbock, TX specializes in a comprehensive array of immigration services tailored to meet diverse needs, with a distinct focus on family-based immigration. From facilitating visa applications to providing resolute deportation defense, her extensive expertise encompasses a broad spectrum of immigration matters. She excels in skillfully navigating clients through the intricate web of paperwork, vital deadlines, and complex legal prerequisites, effectively easing the burdens typically associated with these proceedings. A committed champion, Gilda McDowell tenaciously strives to secure favorable outcomes for her clients, particularly in the realm of family-based immigration.
Immigration Services in Lubbock
Lubbock's Top Choice for Immigration Representation
Gilda McDowell’s dedication to exceptional service and her standing as a premier immigration attorney in Lubbock, Texas, have established her as a trusted figure within the community. With a profound affinity for the region, she possesses a comprehensive grasp of its distinctive intricacies, both in terms of challenges and prospects. An engaged participant in the legal sphere, Gilda McDowell remains consistently informed about the most recent developments in immigration law, guaranteeing her clients access to precise and timely guidance.
If you’re in need of an “abogado de inmigración en Lubbock, Texas,” Gilda McDowell is here to provide the expert legal representation you deserve. With a strong focus on your needs and a commitment to achieving your immigration goals, she is dedicated to making the legal process as smooth as possible for you. Contact Gilda McDowell today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards a brighter immigration future.
Fix Your Immigration status!
It makes a difference when you get the help you need from someone who not only understands the process, but who understands you and your unique situation. As a proud immigrant myself, I know exactly how you feel because I have personally gone through the whole immigration process.
See what my clients have to say:
Contact Us to start
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of visas does Gilda Immigration assist with?
We help clients with a wide range of nonimmigrant and immigrant visa categories, including:
Tourist visas (B-1/B-2): For visiting the U.S. temporarily for business or pleasure.
Student visas (F-1, M-1): For those pursuing academic or vocational education.
Fiancé(e) visas (K-1): For foreign partners of U.S. citizens planning to marry in the U.S.
Family-based immigrant visas: For relatives of U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents.
Special humanitarian visas: For victims of crime (U visa), trafficking (T visa), or those seeking asylum.
We guide clients through the complex documentation, interviews, and timelines associated with each visa type.
What’s the difference between a nonimmigrant visa and an immigrant visa?
Nonimmigrant visas are temporary and used for specific purposes such as tourism, study, or work. They include B-1/B-2 (visitor), F-1 (student), and H-1B (temporary work) visas.
Immigrant visas are for individuals who intend to live in the U.S. permanently. These include family-sponsored and employment-based green card paths.
Choosing the correct category is essential and depends on your long-term plans and immigration goals.
How long does it take to get a U.S. visa?
Processing times vary significantly depending on the type of visa, your home country, the current workload of the U.S. embassy or consulate, and whether additional administrative processing is needed. For example:
Tourist visas may be processed in a few weeks.
Fiancé(e) visas may take 6–12 months.
Student visas depend on the academic term but generally take a few months.
We help monitor timelines and prepare your application to avoid delays.
What happens if my visa application is denied?
Visa denials are usually issued under specific legal grounds. Common reasons include:
Inadequate documentation
Suspicions of immigrant intent on a nonimmigrant visa
Past immigration violations or criminal issues
A denial under Section 214(b) (for tourist/student visas) often means the consular officer wasn’t convinced the applicant will return home after visiting. We can review the denial and guide you on how to reapply successfully or appeal if possible.
How long does the immigration process typically take?
Many clients are interested in knowing the expected timeline for their immigration case. This answer can vary widely depending on the type of visa or immigration benefit sought, government processing times, and any potential complications. By hiring Gilda McDowell you can ensure the process is as smooth and worry free as possible.
Can I change my visa status once I’m in the U.S.?
Yes, many individuals can change status within the U.S.—for example, from a tourist (B-2) to a student (F-1) visa or from a fiancé(e) visa to permanent resident after marriage. However, timing and compliance are critical. We can help file the right forms with USCIS and ensure you maintain legal status during the transition.
Immigration Law Office in Lubbock, TX