OUR IMMIGRATION SERVICESFamily-based immigration to the USA

Expert Legal Guidance for Family-Based Immigration

At Arvian Law Firm, we are committed to helping families reunite through the U.S. immigration process. With extensive knowledge of immigration law, our skilled attorneys provide personalized support for family-based cases, ensuring that every detail is handled with precision and care.

Our services include:

Petitions for Eligible Family Members: From initial consultations to preparing detailed petitions and navigating legal complexities, we strive to bring families together.
Comprehensive Support for Immediate and Extended Relatives: Whether sponsoring a spouse, child, parent, or other qualifying family member, we provide efficient and thorough case management.

Secure your family’s future with trusted legal support: Let us guide you through the immigration process with confidence and expertise.

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Your Guide to Family-Based Immigration

Are you a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident looking to bring your family to America?

Family-based immigration provides a meaningful way to reunite loved ones, but navigating the legal process can be complex. At Arvian Law Firm, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

Immediate Family – Who Qualifies?

Spouses of U.S. citizens (IR-1/CR-1)
Unmarried children under 21 of U.S. citizens (IR-2)
Parents of U.S. citizens 21 years of age or older (IR-5)

Key Benefits:

No annual visa caps
Faster processing times

Visa Bulletin and Priority Dates

The Department of State’s Visa Bulletin determines when a visa will be available based on your petition’s priority date.

Example:
If you petitioned for a sibling in 2018, check the bulletin for updates.

Benefits of Family-Based Immigration

Reunites loved ones, strengthening emotional bonds.
Promotes faster cultural adjustment and economic stability.
Builds support systems for new immigrants.

Integration Assistance After Arrival

Apply for a Social Security Number (SSN).
Arrange for housing and financial assistance.
Access to language and cultural resources.

What is Family-Based Immigration?

Family-based immigration allows U.S. citizens and green card holders to sponsor eligible family members – spouses, children, parents, or siblings – for permanent residence in the United States.

Family Preference Categories

Unmarried adult children of U.S. citizens (F1)
Spouses and unmarried children of lawful permanent residents (F2A)
Siblings of U.S. citizens (F4)

Important: These categories have annual limits and longer waiting periods.

Immigration Process Overview

File Form I-130: Petition for Alien Relative.
Submit Documentation: Prove your relationship and financial standing.
Consular Processing or Adjustment of Status: Based on your family member’s location.

Common Challenges and How We Help

Challenges:

Missing documents
Long wait times
Visa denials

How Arvian Law Firm Helps:

Preparing accurate applications
Liaising with government agencies
Providing interview support

Your Trusted Immigration Partner

Why Choose Arvian Law Firm?

Expertise in family-based immigration
Personalized solutions for your case
Ongoing support after reunification

Answers to FAQs

What are the main categories of family-based immigration in the U.S.?

Family-based immigration is divided into two main categories: immediate relatives of U.S. citizens (such as spouses, parents, and unmarried minor children) and family preference categories, which include more distant relatives such as siblings or adult children of U.S. citizens.

What documents are required to petition for family-based immigration?

You will need proof of the family relationship (e.g., birth certificates, marriage certificates), a completed Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative), proof of the petitioner’s U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent residence, and financial documents showing that the petitioner meets the income requirements for sponsorship.

How long does it take to process a family-based immigration petition?

Processing times vary depending on the relationship category and the applicant’s country of origin. Immediate relative petitions are usually processed more quickly, while family preference categories may take several years due to limited visa availability.

Can a lawful permanent resident sponsor family members?

Yes, lawful permanent residents (green card holders) can sponsor certain family members, such as their spouses and unmarried children. However, they cannot sponsor siblings or parents until they become U.S. citizens.

What are the financial requirements to sponsor a family member?

The petitioner must have sufficient income to meet the minimum guidelines set by the U.S. government, usually 125% of the federal poverty level. If the petitioner’s income is insufficient, a joint sponsor may be used.

What happens if my family-based petition is denied?

If your petition is denied, you will receive a notice explaining the reasons. Depending on the circumstances, you may be able to appeal the decision, file a motion to reopen or reconsider, or file a new petition.

Are there any restrictions on working while waiting for a family-based green card?

If the applicant is in the U.S. on a valid visa, they may need a separate work authorization. For those adjusting status within the U.S., filing Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization) with their green card application allows them to work legally while waiting for a decision.