Marc Santamaria

At Santamaria Law Firm, we emphasize that while 8 C.F.R. § 214.2(e)  lacks a fixed dollar minimum, it mandates a "substantial" investment. In 2026, adjudicators have heightened expectations due to surging U.S. operational costs. Q1: If the law doesn't state a minimum, how is "substantial" measured? Officers apply the Proportionality Test (9 FAM 402.9-6(D)). This compares the amount of funds invested against the total cost of establishing the business. For startups, you are typically expected...

U Visa Eligibility After Withdrawing Domestic Violence Charges Due to Financial Dependency (2026 Update)   By Marc Anthony Santamaria, Founding Attorney | Santamaria Law Firm, P.C. Victims of domestic violence frequently face immense pressure to withdraw police charges, often due to severe financial dependency on their abuser, fear of retaliation, or trauma. A common question we receive at our San Francisco office is how this impacts their immigration options. Q: Can I qualify for a U visa if...

At Santamaria Law Firm, our decades of experience in immigration and removal defense have shown that the days following a release are the most legally volatile. Below, we address the critical deadlines required to protect your freedom and your financial investment: Q1: What is the most common mistake made after a bond release in 2026? Failing to update your address within the mandatory 5-day window . Under 8 U.S.C. § 1229(a)(1)(F) , you are legally required to notify the court of your...