It is common to sponsor or petition for other family members to obtain lawful permanent residency. Under the family immigration laws of the United States, citizens may petition for their parents, spouse, children (regardless of age and marital status), and siblings. Lawful Permanent Residents may also petition for their spouse, minor children under 21, and unmarried children of any age.
At Jag Law, PLLC, we understand how important it is to bring your family together. Our experienced Palm Bay family-based sponsorships attorneys are here to guide you every step of the way. We encourage you to reach out to us to address all of your questions and concerns about these complex processes.
Under U.S. immigration law, family members fall into two main categories: immediate relatives and preference relatives.
Immediate relatives of U.S. citizens include:
Visas are always available for immediate relatives. If an immediate relative is already in the U.S. and was legally admitted, they may file for an adjustment of status (Form I-485) at the same time as the petition. If they are outside the U.S., the petition must go through consular processing. There is a detailed and complex process for immediate relatives who entered without inspection.
Family members who are not immediate relatives fall under preference categories and can be sponsored by both U.S. citizens and green card holders. These relatives include:
Due to the quota system, preference relatives often face longer waiting times, which depend on the family preference category and the relative’s country of origin.
Sponsoring a family member involves more than just submitting forms. You must always provide evidence of the relationship based on the category of filing. Some required accompanying documents include:
Special rules may apply, such as for spouses married less than two years. It is important to ensure that all necessary forms and evidence are complete and correct, as even small errors can cause delays or denials.
The immigration process can be complex and ever-changing. Immediate relatives typically do not face the same waiting periods as preference relatives, but the process can still be complicated, especially if the family member entered the U.S. without inspection. A knowledgeable Palm Bay lawyer could help you navigate the family-based sponsorship process, avoid mistakes, and maximize your chances of success.
Even minor mistakes in an immigration petition can cause significant setbacks. An attorney skilled in Palm Bay family-based sponsorships could streamline the process and ensure that your application is filed correctly and on time. This guidance is especially crucial given the intricacies of U.S. immigration law and the frequent changes to regulations.
Our team at Jag Law can help you gather the necessary documentation, prepare you for interviews, and avoid costly mistakes. Call today to get started.