We understand that family-based immigration isn’t just about paperwork — it’s about reuniting the people you love.
Family-based immigration allows U.S. citizens and permanent residents to sponsor eligible relatives — including spouses, children, parents, and siblings — for permanent residency in the United States.
Let’s Keep Families Together
Family-based immigration is one of the primary pathways to permanent residency under U.S. immigration law, rooted in the principle of family reunification.
Under the Immigration and Nationality Act, U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents may petition for certain relatives to immigrate, with eligibility and processing times varying based on the specific family relationship. Immediate relatives of U.S. citizens, such as spouses, unmarried children under 21, and parents, face no annual cap on visas, allowing for relatively faster processing.
Other relationships, including siblings, married children, and family members sponsored by permanent residents, fall under preference categories that are subject to annual numerical limits, often resulting in significant wait times. Successfully navigating this process requires careful attention to eligibility requirements, documentation, and current visa availability under the monthly Department of State Visa Bulletin.
How can we help?
Let us help you navigate the process, so your family can build its future together in the United States.
FAQs
Who qualifies as an “immediate relative” for immigration purposes?
Immediate relatives include the spouse of a U.S. citizen, unmarried children under 21 of a U.S. citizen, and parents of a U.S. citizen who is at least 21 years old. This category has no annual numerical limit, so there’s typically no waiting list once a petition is approved.
Can I sponsor a sibling or married child?
Yes, but these fall under family preference categories, which are subject to annual visa caps. As a result, wait times can be significantly longer, often spanning several years depending on the relationship and the applicant’s country of birth.
What’s the difference between adjustment of status and consular processing?
Adjustment of status allows an eligible applicant already in the U.S. to apply for a green card without leaving the country. Consular processing is used when the applicant is outside the U.S. and must complete their green card interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate abroad.
How long does the family-based green card process take?
Timelines vary widely based on the relationship category, the applicant’s country of origin, and current visa availability. Immediate relative cases tend to move faster, while preference categories can take years due to backlogs.
Working with our firm means you get more than paperwork assistance: you get a partner who understands the nuances of each visa category, anticipates the questions immigration officers are likely to ask, and builds your case to withstand scrutiny the first time around.
- Petition Preparation & Filing
- Adjustment of Status & Consular Processing
- Ongoing Case Support
