Family-Based Visas

Reunite with Loved Ones in the U.S.

Bringing family members to the United States is one of the most common pathways to lawful permanent residency. Family-based visas allow U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents to sponsor eligible relatives for immigration, helping them obtain legal status and build a future in the U.S.

Our firm provides comprehensive legal support to guide families through the immigration process, ensuring that applications are filed correctly and efficiently.

 

Who Can Sponsor a Family Member?

1. U.S. Citizens Can Sponsor:

Spouses

Parents (if the petitioner is at least 21 years old)

Children (married or unmarried)

Siblings (if the petitioner is at least 21 years old)

2. Lawful Permanent Residents (Green Card Holders) Can Sponsor:

Spouses

Unmarried Children

Family-based immigration is divided into two categories: immediate relatives and preference categories.

Types of Family-Based Visas

1. Immediate Relative Visas (Unlimited Quotas)

For immediate relatives of U.S. citizens, these visas do not have annual limits, allowing for faster processing times.

IR-1 / CR-1 (Spouse of a U.S. Citizen)

For foreign spouses of U.S. citizens. Conditional residency applies if the marriage is less than two years old.

IR-2 (Unmarried Children Under 21 of U.S. Citizens)

For biological or adopted children.

IR-5 (Parent of a U.S. Citizen)

For parents of U.S. citizens who are at least 21 years old.

2. Family Preference Visas (Annual Quotas Apply)

These visas are for more distant family relationships and are subject to yearly limits.

F1 (Unmarried Adult Children of U.S. Citizens)

Sons and daughters (age 21 or older) of U.S. citizens.

F2B (Unmarried Adult Children of Permanent Residents)

For green card holders sponsoring unmarried sons and daughters age 21 or older.

F2A (Spouses and Children of Permanent Residents)

For green card holders sponsoring spouses and unmarried children under 21.

F3 (Married Children of U.S. Citizens)

For married sons and daughters of U.S. citizens.

F4 (Siblings of U.S. Citizens)

For U.S. citizens (age 21 or older) sponsoring their brothers or sisters.

The Family Visa Process

1. File Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative)

This establishes the relationship between the petitioner and the family member.

2. Wait for Visa Availability

Immediate relatives do not face wait times, but preference categories may have delays based on annual quotas.

3. Consular Processing or Adjustment of Status

  • Consular Processing – If the family member is outside the U.S., they will apply for an immigrant visa through a U.S. consulate.
  • Adjustment of Status – If the relative is already in the U.S., they may apply for a green card (Form I-485) without leaving the country.

4. Attend an Interview

The sponsored relative must attend an interview at a U.S. embassy, consulate, or USCIS office.

5. Receive Approval & Green Card

Once approved, the relative becomes a lawful permanent resident.

 

How Our Firm Can Help

Petition Preparation & Submission

We ensure your I-130 petition is accurate and complete to avoid delays.

Processing Time Estimates

 We provide guidance on expected wait times and priority dates.

Visa Category Guidance

 We help you determine the best visa option based on your relationship and status.

Consular Processing & Interview Support

We prepare family members for visa interviews and provide documentation assistance.

Complex Cases & Appeals

If you face legal obstacles, we assist with waivers, denials, and reconsiderations.

 

Reunite Your Family—Start the Process Today

Family reunification is a cornerstone of U.S. immigration law, but the process can be complex. Our firm is committed to helping you navigate the system and bring your loved ones home.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation and begin your family-based immigration case.

Schedule a Consultation