Virginia Family Immigration Lawyer
Dealing with family immigration issues can be emotional and overwhelming. Navigating the process to bring family members to the U.S. can be daunting, but a Virginia immigration lawyer can help alleviate your burden during this difficult time. We are well-versed with these issues, and we can help to simplify the process for you.
Why Work with an Attorney?
Working with an experienced family immigration attorney can benefit you in a number of ways. Petitioning for a family member to come to the U.S. can be complicated, but we help our clients fully understand the process. We make sure they know what to expect from the outset. We assist them with following the proper process based upon their circumstances. We monitor the progress from start to finish and keep our clients apprised of where things stand each step of the way.
How Family Immigration Works
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services permits U.S. citizens and green card holders (permanent residents) to petition for family members to join them in the U.S. There are separate rules for immediate family members than for more distant relatives, so it is important to understand the differences.
Immediate family members include spouses, parents (if the petitioner is 21 years or older), and unmarried children 21 years or younger. This category applies only to the immediate family of those with U.S. citizenship (not permanent residents). The main benefit is that there is no cap on number of immediate family members who are accepted, so there is no waiting period for them.
The U.S. does have an annual cap on the number of visas available to non-immediate family members, which means those individuals wait in line as visas become available, which can be as long as 20 years or more depending upon the country the person is from and their family preference category. The following is a breakdown of the preferences:
- First: unmarried adult (21 years or older) children of U.S. citizens;
- Second: spouses of permanent residents, unmarried children (under 21 years old) of permanent residents, and unmarried adult (21 years or older) children of permanent residents;
- Third: married children of U.S. citizens; and
- Fourth: siblings of U.S. citizens.
Additionally, a person engaged to a U.S. citizen may also apply for a K visa to enter the country.
Family Immigration Services Offered
The family immigration rules and procedures in the U.S. are indeed quite complex. Someone who is interested in helping immediate relatives apply for permanent residency may be daunted by the process. However, a Virginia family immigration lawyer can help you navigate your way. We will determine the best family immigration category for your relative(s) based upon your status and your relationship to your family members. We will ensure that the proper process is followed for each particular category. We will inform you of any potential wait times so that you and your relatives know what to expect. We will provide you guidance each step of the way.
Get Help with Your Case
If your family is separated due to immigration issues, you are likely already overwhelmed and frustrated. A seasoned Virginia family immigration attorney can help. Let us take on your case, and we will work tirelessly on your behalf so that you can focus on reuniting your family. Our office can provide much needed guidance on common pitfalls to avoid and guide you and your family throughout the process. Get your free consultation today to learn more.
