Family-based immigration in the United States refers to the process by which U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents (green card holders) can sponsor certain family members to immigrate to the United States and obtain lawful permanent residency (LPR), also known as a green card. The U.S. immigration system prioritizes family reunification and allows citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their immediate relatives and certain other family members for immigration status.
There are two main categories of family-based immigration visas in the United States:
- Immediate Relative Immigrant Visas: These visas are for the closest relatives of U.S. citizens and include the following categories:
a. Spouses of U.S. citizens
b. Unmarried children under the age of 21 of U.S. citizens
c. Parents of U.S. citizens (if the citizen is at least 21 years old) - Family Preference Immigrant Visas: These visas are for more distant relatives of U.S. citizens and certain relatives of lawful permanent residents. There are four preference categories:
a. F1: Unmarried sons and daughters (21 years of age and older) of U.S. citizens
b. F2A: Spouses and unmarried children (under 21 years of age) of lawful permanent residents
c. F2B: Unmarried sons and daughters (21 years of age and older) of lawful permanent residents
d. F3: Married sons and daughters of U.S. citizens
e. F4: Brothers and sisters of U.S. citizens, if the U.S. citizen petitioner is at least 21 years old
The process of sponsoring a family member for immigration typically involves the U.S. citizen or permanent resident petitioner filing a petition (Form I-130) with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Once the petition is approved and a visa becomes available (as determined by the priority date), the beneficiary (the sponsored family member) can apply for an immigrant visa (if outside the United States) or adjust status to permanent resident (if already in the United States).
Our law firm is uniquely positioned to assist clients with family-based immigration because we understand firsthand the challenges and complexities of the U.S. immigration system. Members of our legal team, including Mr. Boora himself, are immigrants who have personally gone through the immigration process. This firsthand experience sets us apart from other firms and allows us to empathize with our clients on a deeper level, while results vary on each individual case, we are more than happy to assist.
