Understanding Family-Based Visas
Our firm has successfully represented hundreds of individuals and their family members in obtaining lawful permanent resident status (green card) either here in the United States or through a U.S. embassy or consulate abroad. As a lawful permanent resident, you may live and work in the United States, as well as petition for certain relatives to join you.
There are two types of family-based visas, including immediate relative immigrant visas and family preference immigrant visas. To qualify for an immediate relative immigrant visa, you need to have a close relationship with a United States citizen. This extends to spouses of U.S. citizens, unmarried children under 21 years of U.S. citizens and orphans adopted abroad by a U.S. citizen.
Meanwhile, family preference immigrant visas relate to more distant relationships with lawful permanent residents. You could receive a family preference immigrant visa if you are an unmarried child of a U.S. citizen, married child of a U.S. citizen, or even in some cases, a sibling of a U.S. citizen.
When Might Family Members Be Ineligible For An Immigrant Visa?
Immigration law is extremely complex, and there are many reasons why your family member might not be eligible for an immigrant visa, even if they have a qualifying family relationship with a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident.
Some reasons you may be deemed ineligible for permanent residence are:
- Criminal history
- Unlawful entries or unlawful presence
- Prior deportations
- Misrepresentations
- Fraud
Submitting an immigration application when you are not eligible could result in the loss of time and money, family separation, deportation, and/or permanent ineligibility for legal status in the United States.
Providing Immigrants With Honest Guidance
There may be exceptions and waivers available even in the most complex of cases. We will carefully analyze the facts of your case based on our extensive legal knowledge and experience, and we will help you understand your options for bringing your family to the United States. We are available at 915-772-2223, and you can also reach us through the online form.