The United States family-based immigrant visa programs are a critical pathway for U.S. citizens and permanent residents to sponsor family members for immigration to the United States. This process exists to reunite families and to allow close relatives to gain legal status in the United States. However, this process is complex and nuanced, and the United States Customs and Immigration Service (USCIS) isn’t big on second chances, so it’s important to get things right the first time around. That’s where a skilled and seasoned Philadelphia immigration attorney can become a valuable asset. The experienced team of immigration attorneys at MC Law Group, backed by decades of experience, proudly serves clients across Philadelphia and beyond.
Who is Eligible for a Family-Based Immigration Visa?
Only specific family members are eligible to be sponsored under the United States’ family-based immigrant visa processes. These eligible relatives will fall into one of two categories: immediate relative petitions or family preference visas.
Immediate relative petitions apply only to U.S. citizens and cover spouses, unmarried children under the age of 21, parents if the sponsoring individual is over 21, and widows or widowers of U.S. citizens. There is no limitation or quota for these petitions.
On the other hand, family preference visas cover more distant relatives, provide an avenue for lawful permanent residents to sponsor, and have limits set by the U.S. government in terms of how many can be granted in a specific time frame. Family preference visas are ranked in importance by the closeness of the familial relationship as follows:
- First preference: unmarried children of U.S. citizens
- Second preference: spouses, minor children, and unmarried children over 21 of lawful permanent residents
- Third preference: married children of U.S. citizens
- Fourth preference: siblings of U.S. citizens, for sponsors over 21
The Steps for Obtaining a Family-Based Immigration Visa
There are many steps you must take to successfully bring your loved one to the United States under the Family-Based Immigration Visa. These include:
- Establishing your eligibility to sponsor
- Filing a Petition for Alien Relative with the USCIS
- Providing supporting documentation
- Waiting for USCIS processing
- Transferring your case to the National Visa Center (NVC)
- Completing the Immigrant Visa Application
- Attending a visa interview
- Undergoing a medical examination and background check
- Receiving the visa
- Entering into the United States
- Applying for adjustment of status or consular processing
MC Law Group: Your Philadelphia Immigration Attorney
Sponsoring a family member for immigration to the United States is a complex, multi-step process that requires specific expertise in immigration law and a strong attention to detail. Navigating this journey successfully is an uphill battle without an experienced Philadelphia immigration attorney by your side. Turn to an established law firm backed with 30 years of experience.
The MC Law Group will guide you through the process, helping you navigate the complexities so you can be reunited with your loved ones in the United States. Contact us today, call us at (215)-496-0690, or come visit us for a walk-in consultation every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday. Our consultations are always free and confidential.