Addison, ME Family-Based Green Card Attorneys
A Family Preference Green Card permits specified family members of people who are either U.S. citizens or permanent residents to become permanent residents of Addison, ME, and the entire United States. If someone is a U.S. citizen, relatives eligible to come to the U.S. with this category of green card include spouses, children (whether single or married) and siblings (as long as the citizen is at least 21). For lawful permanent residents, the relatives eligible for this green card include spouses, unmarried children under 21, and unmarried children over 21.
Family preference green cards do not have the same process as green cards meant for immediate family, which are meant for parents, spouses, and minor children of U.S. citizens. A family green card attorney near you in Addison, ME can help your family decide the most fitting category of green card, reconnecting you with your family so you can build and continue your life together in the United States.
How Do Addison, ME Family-Based Green Cards Work?
First, the Addison, ME family member who is either a United States citizen or permanent resident files Form I-130, also called the Petition for Alien Relative. This form verifies the familial connection needed for sponsorship. Next, after USCIS approves the petition, the family member who is out of the country must remain waiting until visas are obtainable based on the date they apply and the annual visa limits that Congress authorized. If the applying relative is already in the United States legally, they can request a status adjustment by filing forms including I-485.
Each eligible type of relative is assigned a preference category, which has a set annual cap specific to that category. F1, for example, which is 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. Often, Addison, ME applicants have to wait for years or in many instances, decades for family-sponsored green cards to become available.
The Benefits of Hiring a Family-Based Green Card Lawyer in Addison, ME
Going through the immigration process is time-consuming and requires substantial work and particular know-how. USCIS does not currently release specific wait times for the processing of family-based petitions, which can differ based on where you're immigrating from and which preference category you belong to. However, some F4 (sibling) visa applicants have reported waits of more than fifteen years. With this kind of potential wait, you must apply as early as possible and with all of your correct data . Addison, ME family immigration attorneys can help you present the requisite documents and ensure everything is properly filed for the correct visa.
Addison, ME immigration lawyers can help you understand the laws and regulations that change constantly and interpret complex documentation. They understand the application timelines and can help you or your family members prepare for visa interviews. With knowledgeable legal professionals in your corner, you may be able to get the visa much quicker, experience a smoother application, and improve your family's chances to achieve the desired outcome.
Why Choose Weinstock Immigration Lawyers As Your Addison, ME Family Immigration Lawyer
When you or a family member is applying for a family preference green card, choose Weinstock Immigration Lawyers in Addison, ME. Our founder relocated to the United States as an immigrant, and our team includes many individuals who are immigrants or have close family who are immigrants. Our multilingual, multicultural team of attorneys can help your family navigate the legal immigration process and enjoy some of the industry's highest rates of approval.* We're eager to assist with your and your family member's immigration needs. Reach out today for a case evaluation at no cost.
*Disclaimer: Past results do not ensure similar outcomes.