Family Member Sponsorship
Family Member Sponsorship enables U.S. citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their immediate and extended family members for immigration. This category includes several visa types, such as the IR-5 visa for parents of U.S. citizens, the F1 visa for unmarried sons and daughters of U.S. citizens, and the F3/F4 visas for married children and siblings of U.S. citizens. The goal is to reunite families and allow them to live together in the U.S.
– Immediate Relative Petitions: Sponsoring parents, children, and siblings.
– Family Preference Visas: Navigating the visa bulletin and priority dates.
– Consular Processing and AOS: Comprehensive support through the entire process
Immediate Relative Petitions
Overview:
Sponsoring parents, children, or siblings for permanent residency.
Requirements:
Eligibility, proof of relationship, supporting documents.
Process:
1. File Form I-130.
2. Receive NOA1 and NOA2.
3. NVC processes case.
4. Attend consular interview.
Consular Processing and AOS
Overview:
Choosing between consular processing and adjustment of status for family members.
Requirements:
Eligibility, supporting documents.
Process:
1. File necessary forms.
2. NVC or USCIS processing.
3. Attend interview.
4. Receive visa or green card.
Frequently Asked Questions about Family-Based Immigration Visas:
Family-based immigration visas are visas that allow close family members of U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents (LPRS) to immigrate to the United States.
The main types include:
– F1 Visa: Unmarried sons and daughters (21 years of age and older) of U.S. citizens.
– F2A Visa: Spouses and unmarried children (under 21 years old) of LPRs.
– F2B Visa: Unmarried sons and daughters (21 years of age and older) of LPRs.
– F3 Visa: Married sons and daughters of U.S. citizens.
– F4 Visa: Brothers and sisters of adult U.S. citizens.
Generally, the process involves:
– The U.S. citizen or LPR sponsor files Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative) with USCIS.
– Once approved, the petition is forwarded to the National Visa Center
(NVC) for processing.
– The foreign family member completes visa application forms, undergoes a medical examination, and attends an interview at the U.S. embassy or consulate in their home country.
– If approved, the family member receives an immigrant visa to enter the U.S. and obtain lawful permanent residency (green card).
Eligibility varies depending on the specific visa category, but generally, the relationship between the sponsor and the beneficiary must be verified, and both parties must meet legal requirements for marriage or family relationship.
Processing times vary depending on the visa category, country of origin, and individual circumstances. It can range from several months to several years.
Yes, once in the U.S., family members typically receive work authorization based on their status as lawful permanent residents (green card holders).
Yes, but it is important to understand the implications of travel on immigration status and to ensure compliance with U.S. immigration laws, especially during the green card process.
Visa applications can be denied for various reasons, including failure to meet eligibility requirements, insufficient evidence of a bona fide relationship, legal ineligibility, or concerns about fraud or misrepresentation. It is crucial to provide thorough documentation and prepare for the interview diligently.
Yes, unmarried children under 21 years old of the family member applicant can apply for derivative visas to accompany their parent to the U.S. They must be listed on the original petition and attend the visa interview.
Upon entry into the U.S., family members typically receive lawful permanent residency (green card) status, allowing them to live and work permanently in the U.S. They may also be eligible to apply for U.S. citizenship after meeting certain residency requirements.
If you require advice on U.S. immigration matters, please do not hesitate to reach out to Truong Law Firm for a free consultation and support. My team and I are here to assist you in finding the best solutions for your immigration needs.
At Truong Law Firm, we believe in maintaining clear and consistent communication with our clients. We keep you informed every step of the way, ensuring transparency and trust in our legal process. Our goal is to help you achieve your immigration objectives efficiently and successfully.
