Family-Based Immigration

Reunite With Your Loved Ones

Family is everything. We help U.S. citizens and permanent residents bring their family members to the United States through the family-based immigration process.

Quick Facts

Processing Time

12-36 months (varies by category)

Main Form

Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative)

Who Can Petition

U.S. citizens and green card holders

Family Immigration Categories

Different family relationships fall into different categories, each with its own processing times and requirements.

Immediate Relatives (No Wait Time)

Eligible Relationships:

  • Spouses of U.S. citizens
  • Unmarried children under 21 of U.S. citizens
  • Parents of U.S. citizens (if petitioner is 21+)

Benefits:

  • No annual quota limits
  • Fastest processing times
  • Can apply for work authorization immediately

Family Preference Categories

Eligible Relationships:

  • F1: Unmarried adult children of U.S. citizens
  • F2A: Spouses and children of green card holders
  • F2B: Unmarried adult children of green card holders
  • F3: Married children of U.S. citizens
  • F4: Siblings of U.S. citizens (if petitioner is 21+)

Benefits:

  • Path to permanent residence
  • Can eventually sponsor other family members
  • Access to U.S. education and healthcare

The Family Immigration Process

Understanding the steps involved helps you prepare for your family's immigration journey.

1

Determine Eligibility

1-2 weeks

Assess your relationship and determine which family-based category applies to your situation.

2

File Petition (Form I-130)

12-24 months

Submit the immigrant petition for your family member with supporting documentation.

3

Wait for Priority Date

Varies by category

For preference categories, wait until your priority date becomes current.

4

Apply for Green Card

8-18 months

File adjustment of status (if in U.S.) or consular processing (if abroad).

5

Attend Interview

2-6 months

Complete biometrics and attend the immigration interview.

6

Receive Green Card

2-4 weeks

Upon approval, your family member receives their permanent resident card.

Requirements & Documentation

Proper documentation is crucial for a successful family immigration petition.

Petitioner Requirements

  • Must be a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident
  • Must be at least 21 years old (for some categories)
  • Must meet minimum income requirements (Form I-864)
  • Must prove genuine family relationship

Beneficiary Requirements

  • Must have qualifying family relationship
  • Must be admissible to the United States
  • Must not have certain criminal or immigration violations
  • Must undergo medical examination

Documentation Needed

  • Proof of U.S. citizenship or permanent residence
  • Birth certificates and marriage certificates
  • Proof of termination of previous marriages
  • Financial documents (tax returns, pay stubs)
  • Police certificates and medical records

Common Challenges & How We Help

Long Wait Times

Some family preference categories have wait times of several years.

Our Solution: We help you understand realistic timelines and explore alternative options that may be faster.

Income Requirements

Petitioners must meet minimum income thresholds to sponsor family members.

Our Solution: We guide you through using joint sponsors or alternative evidence of financial support.

Proving Genuine Relationships

USCIS carefully scrutinizes family relationships, especially marriages.

Our Solution: We help you compile compelling evidence and prepare for interviews to demonstrate the authenticity of your relationship.

Ready to Bring Your Family Together?

Let us guide you through the family immigration process. Schedule a consultation to discuss your specific situation and explore your options.