Topeka, KS Lawyers for Family-Based Green Cards
A Family Preference Green Card permits specific relatives of current U.S. citizens and permanent residents to themselves become permanent residents in Topeka, KS and the United States in general. For those who are U.S. citizens, family members that can come to the U.S. with this type of green card include children, spouses and siblings (as long as the U.S. citizen is at least 21 years old). If someone is a lawful permanent resident, the relatives eligible for this green card include unmarried children no matter what age, and spouses.
Family preference permanent resident cards do not have the same process as green cards meant for immediate family, which are designated for a U.S. citizen's parents, spouses, and minor children. A family green card attorney in Topeka, KS can help you to decide the right green card category to pursue, helping you unite with your family to create or expand your life in the U.S. together.
How Do Family-Preference Green Cards Work in Topeka, KS?
First, the Topeka, KS family member who is a lawful permanent resident or a U.S. citizen has to file Form I-130, known as a Petition for Alien Relative. This form proves the family relationship that qualifies for the sponsorship. As soon as that form is approved, the family member outside the United States must wait for visas to become accessible based on the date they apply and the annual visa quotas authorized by Congress. If the applying relative is already in the United States legally, they can petition for a status adjustment with various forms including I-485.
Each eligible type of relative has a defined preference categorization, all of which have annual limits. As an example, F1, or First Preference, is for over 21-year-old, unmarried children of U.S. citizens. Only 23,400 family preference green cards are allocated to F1 out of 226,000 total each year. Many Topeka, KS applicants end up waiting for years or even decades for family preference green cards to open up.
Should You Hire a Family Immigration Attorney in Topeka, KS?
Navigating the immigration procedures takes time and consistent effort and particular know-how. The USCIS does not disclose estimated processing times for family-based petitions, which can differ based on where you're immigrating from and your designated preference category. However, there are many reports of fifteen-year or greater waits for sibling, or F4, visas. When you face this kind of potential delay, it's imperative that you apply as soon as possible and with complete accuracy. A family immigration attorney in Topeka, KS can help prepare all the necessary paperwork and correctly file it for your specific visa type.
Your Topeka, Kansas immigration attorney can also help you navigate constantly changing laws and regulations and clarify confusing paperwork. They know the application’s schedules and can help your family get ready for eventual visa interviews. With knowledgeable legal professionals in your corner, you can minimize delays, undergo a more seamless process, and increase your chances of a favorable outcome.
Family Immigration Attorney: Why Pick Weinstock Immigration Lawyers in Topeka, KS
If you or a family member plans to apply for a family preference green card, select Weinstock Immigration Lawyers in Topeka, KS. Our founder immigrated to the U.S. herself, and many of our team members are immigrants or have close family who are immigrants. Our multilingual, multicultural team of attorneys will advise your family throughout the legal immigration structure and enjoy some of the industry's highest rates of approval.* We're eager to assist with all of your family's legal immigration needs. Reach out today for a case evaluation at no cost.
*Disclaimer: Past results do not ensure similar outcomes.