👨👩👧👦 Family reunification is a cornerstone of U.S. immigration law. Family-based green cards allow eligible relatives of U.S. citizens or permanent residents to live and work in the United States permanently.
This article explains eligibility categories, the petition process, and how BorderlessLawyers supports family-based immigration.
Eligible Family Members
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Immediate Relatives of U.S. Citizens: spouses, unmarried children under 21, and parents
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Family Preference Categories:
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F1: Unmarried adult children of U.S. citizens
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F2: Spouses and unmarried children of permanent residents
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F3: Married children of U.S. citizens
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F4: Siblings of U.S. citizens
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Petition and Application Process
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U.S. citizen or permanent resident files Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative
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Approval allows beneficiary to apply for green card via Adjustment of Status or Consular Processing
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Wait times vary by category and country of origin
Processing Times and Visa Availability
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Immediate relatives have no visa caps and faster processing
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Family preference categories have annual limits, resulting in longer waits
How BorderlessLawyers Helps
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Assessing eligibility and filing petitions
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Navigating visa bulletin and priority dates
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Coordinating documentation for adjustment or consular processing
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Advising on waivers and complex family situations
FAQs
Q: Can I sponsor a fiancé(e)?
Yes, through the K-1 fiancé(e) visa process.
Q: What if my petition is denied?
BorderlessLawyers can advise on appeals or alternative options.
Q: Can family members work while waiting for green cards?
Depends on visa status; certain dependent visas allow work authorization.
Reunite with Your Loved Ones Legally and Smoothly
BorderlessLawyers provides compassionate and expert legal assistance to reunite families through U.S. immigration.