Many people who once dreamed of living in the U.S. now do so but have another goal in mind: Bringing a family member here to enjoy the same dream. Family-based visas are available to many types of family relations, with the first priority going to:
- Spouses
- Children under the age of 21
- Parents of U.S. citizens who are over the age of 21
Aside from the immediate family members listed above, family members in the U.S. may also sponsor:
- Unmarried children (age 21 or older) of U.S. citizens
- Spouses and children of lawful permanent residents (green card holders)
- Unmarried children (21 and older) of lawful permanent residents
- Married children of U.S. citizens
- Siblings of U.S. citizens (if the citizen is 21 years of age or older)
Making the process work
If your family member is eligible and wants to join you in the U.S., the legal process must be handled with care. Mistakes in visa applications and other paperwork can turn a relatively easy process into a prolonged struggle. In some cases, delays arising from such mistakes can last for months, even years.
Some common mistakes include failing to demonstrate a marriage is valid and failing to show the sponsor is able to provide adequate financial support. If you are sponsoring a spouse or fiancé(e), there are certain requirements you must meet to demonstrate to immigration officials that your relationship is, indeed, legitimate. If you are sponsoring a child or other family member who will be financially dependant on you, you must demonstrate that you have the means of providing financial support.
Give yourself peace of mind by enlisting the services of an experienced family immigration lawyer who has helped numerous people, and their family members, realize the dream of living and working in the United States.