Family-Based Immigration Services 

If you are a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident (Green Card holder), you may have the opportunity to sponsor certain family members for permanent residency in the United States. Family-based immigration is one of the most common pathways to obtaining a Green Card, but the process requires submitting the correct petitions, understanding eligibility categories, and meeting all legal requirements. 

At our firm, we guide families through every step of the sponsorship process so they can reunite and build a stable future in the U.S. 

Who Is Eligible for a Family-Based Immigrant Visa? 

To help a relative become a permanent resident, the first step is to file a family-based immigrant petition. U.S. immigration law divides these visas into two main categories: Immediate Relative Visas and Family Preference Visas. 

1. Immediate Relative (IR) Visas 

Immediate Relative visas are reserved for the closest family relationships and are not subject to annual visa limits. This generally means processing is faster compared to other categories. 

Eligible relatives of U.S. citizens include: 

• Spouses 

• Unmarried children under age 21 

• Parents of U.S. citizens who are at least 21 years old 

Because there is no cap on these visa numbers, immediate relatives typically experience shorter waiting times once their petition is approved. 

2. Family Preference Visas 

Family Preference visas are for more extended family relationships and are subject to annual numerical limits, which means wait times can vary significantly depending on the category and the applicant’s country of origin. 

These categories include: 

Relatives of U.S. citizens 

• F1: Unmarried sons and daughters (21 or older) 

• F3: Married sons and daughters 

• F4: Brothers and sisters of U.S. citizens 

Relatives of Lawful Permanent Residents 

• F2A: Spouses and unmarried children under 21 of Green Card holders 

• F2B: Unmarried sons and daughters (21 or older) of Green Card holders 

Because demand often exceeds the number of available visas, applicants in these categories may need to review the Visa Bulletin to understand their priority dates and estimated waiting times. 

How Our Firm Helps With Family-Based Immigration 

Our office assists clients in navigating every stage of the family-based immigration process, including: 

• Determining the correct visa category 

• Preparing and filing Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative) 

• Advising on consular processing or adjustment of status 

• Communicating with USCIS and the National Visa Center (NVC) 

• Preparing clients for interviews 

• Addressing delays, Requests for Evidence (RFEs), and complex cases 

We ensure families understand their rights, obligations, and the steps necessary to secure a Green Card for their loved ones. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) 

1. Who can a U.S. citizen sponsor for a Green Card? 

U.S. citizens may sponsor their spouse, children, parents, and siblings under the Immediate Relative or Family Preference categories. 

2. Who can a Green Card holder sponsor? 

Lawful permanent residents can petition for their spouse, unmarried children under 21, and unmarried adult children. 

3. What is the difference between Immediate Relative and Family Preference visas? 

Immediate Relative visas have no annual cap, meaning faster availability. Family Preference visas are limited each year, which can lead to longer wait times. 

4. How long does family-based immigration take? 

Processing times vary by category, relationship, and country. Immediate Relative petitions are usually faster, while Family Preference categories may take several years. 

5. Do I need an immigration lawyer for a family-based Green Card? 

It is true that you are not required to hire an attorney for a family-based Green Card or K-1 fiancé(e) visa, but the immigration process is far more complicated than it appears. Every petition requires detailed documentation, strict eligibility proof, and precise legal forms — and even a small error can cause delays, Requests for Evidence (RFEs), denials, or the loss of filing fees. 

USCIS carefully reviews every page you submit, and missing a single signature, outdated form version, or insufficient evidence of the family relationship can set your case back months or even years. In the worst cases, a mistake can place your relative’s immigration future at risk. 

Working with an experienced family-based immigration attorney gives you peace of mind. A lawyer ensures: 

• Your petition is correctly prepared and properly documented 

• All deadlines are met 

• You submit the strongest evidence to avoid delays 

• You understand every step before making important decisions 

• You are fully prepared for interviews, requests, and follow-up 

• You have strategic guidance if your case involves complications 

At our firm, we handle the legal complexities so you don’t have to. We anticipate issues before they arise, communicate directly with federal agencies, and guide you through the entire process, giving your loved one the best chance at obtaining their Green Card quickly and successfully. 

Your family’s future is too important to risk on guesswork. Having an experienced immigration attorney on your side can make all the difference. 

6. What documents are needed for a family-based petition? 

Common documents include proof of U.S. citizenship or permanent residency, evidence of the qualifying relationship (such as a marriage certificate or birth certificate), financial sponsorship documents, and identification records. 

7. What happens after my I-130 petition is approved? 

Depending on where your relative lives, they will either complete consular processing abroad or adjustment of status inside the United States to obtain their Green Card.