Family-Based Immigration Pathways

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Family-based immigration allows U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents  to sponsor certain relatives for permanent residence in the United States. This process is grounded in keeping families together and offers multiple legal pathways depending on the family relationship, immigration status of the petitioner, and the beneficiary’s circumstances.

Our firm guides families through every stage of the process—from determining eligibility to preparing and filing petitions, responding to government requests, and supporting clients through interviews and final approvals.

 A U.S. citizen may petition for a foreign national spouse to obtain lawful permanent residence.

Options:

• Adjustment of Status: If the spouse is lawfully present in the U.S.
• Consular Processing: If the spouse is outside the U.S.

Lawful permanent residents may sponsor their spouse under a family preference category.

Considerations:

• Subject to visa availability and waiting periods
• Adjustment of status may be possible if a visa is available
• Consular processing applies when the spouse is abroad

Eligible Categories:

• Unmarried children under 21 
• Unmarried children 21 or older
• Married children of any age

Processing Options:

• Adjustment of status (if in the U.S.)
• Consular processing (if outside the U.S.)

Green card holders may petition for unmarried children.

Eligible Categories:

• Unmarried children under 21
• Unmarried children 21 or older

*Married children are not eligible to be sponsored by permanent residents.

U.S. citizens who are at least 21 years old may petition for their parents or siblings. The requirements for each vary. 

U.S. citizens may petition for a foreign fiancé(e) to enter the U.S. for marriage.

Key Requirements:

• Marriage must occur within 90 days of entry
• Adjustment of status required after marriage
• Strict eligibility and documentation standards apply

We assess eligibility, identify the correct pathway, prepare all required filings, and guide clients through interviews and final approval.

Contact us to discuss the right family-based immigration option for your situation.