Navigating the US immigration system means trying to work with a huge government bureaucracy that doesn't always have your best interests in mind. That's why we have your back. Let us use our experience to file your I-130, DS-260 or I-485, and all other necessary documentation so that your loved ones reunite with you in the United States as quickly as possible.
Immediate Relative Petitions
Visas Immediately Available
One of the most popular US immigration methods, family-based immigration lets U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents bring family members to the United States through a sponsor system. Family-based immigration can sometimes be tough to understand, as some relatives may qualify and others may not. There are two broad categories of family-based immigration: immediate relative petitions and family preference petitions.
Immediate relative petitions include U.S. citizens petitioning for spouses, U.S. citizens petitioning for unmarried children under the age of 21, and U.S. citizens who are over the age of 21 petitioning for their parents.
There is no wait time for immediate relatives as visas are available immediately after their I-130 family petition is approved. However, just because a visa is available doesn't mean these cases are processed quickly—the full petition process may still take over a year or more.
Family Preference Categories
Visa Waiting Period
Family preference petitions are an important part of the U.S. immigration system, allowing U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents to sponsor certain family members for permanent residency.
There are four family-based preference categories: unmarried sons and daughters of U.S. citizens, spouses and unmarried sons and daughters of lawful permanent residents, married sons and daughters of U.S. citizens, and brothers and sisters of U.S. citizens.
These categories are subject to annual quotas and processing times that are determined by visa availability, which is published monthly in the Visa Bulletin. Petitioning through the appropriate family preference category and understanding the constantly evolving visa backlogs highlighted in the Visa Bulletin is important for a successful case.
Because of long wait times, it's often helpful to explore all of your legal options. We're always a phone call away to provide guidance throughout this complicated legal process.
Common Roadblocks
We Hope for the Best, Plan for the Worst
Filing a family preference petition can be a complex and error-prone process even for the most conscientious of petitioners.
Common issues include:
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Failing to submit required documentation or providing incomplete or inaccurate information, leading to a Request for Evidence
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Missing crucial deadlines, including missing or failing to respond to communication with USCIS or the NVC
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Providing inaccurate financial documentation on the I-864, or misunderstanding financial requirements, poverty guidelines, or tax filing status
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Misunderstanding eligibility criteria, which may lead to delays or denials
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Confusing important immigration concepts, such as the permanent bar, visa overstays, or circumstances which may require a waiver
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Encountering unexpected delays due to administrative processing backlogs, requiring submission of inquiries or congressional assistance
Even seemingly minor mistakes can lead to lengthy processing times, requests for additional evidence, or outright denials, derailing the path to family reunification.
Your Peace of Mind
So You Can Focus on What's Most Important to You
Our role is to make sure that any potential obstacles can be mitigated or avoided altogether. You can breathe easy knowing that we're on it, so you don't have to be.
Let us ensure meticulous preparation of your petition, proper filing procedures, and effective advocacy of your case, maximizing the chances of a successful outcome while minimizing unnecessary delays and setbacks.
