Oxford, ME Lawyers for Family-Based Green Cards
A Green Card for Family Preference Immigrants allows certain relatives of people who are either U.S. citizens or permanent residents to become permanent residents of Oxford, ME, and the entire United States. With U.S. citizens, the relatives they can bring to the U.S. with this green card include spouses, children (whether single or married) and siblings (as long as the U.S. citizen is at least 21 years old). For those who are lawful permanent residents, eligible family members for this type of green card include spouses, unmarried children under 21, and unmarried children over 21.
Family preference green cards have a different path from green cards for immediate family members, which are designed for the parents, minor children, and spouses of U.S. citizens. A family green card attorney near you in Oxford, ME can help you to decide the most fitting category of green card, helping you unite with your family to build or expand your life in the U.S. together.
How Do Family-Based Green Cards Work in Oxford, ME?
First, the Oxford, ME family member who is either a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident files Form I-130, which is the Petition for Alien Relative. This form proves the family relationship required for sponsorship. Next, after USCIS approves the petition, the family member who lives abroad must remain waiting until visas are obtainable based on their application date and the current visa limits imposed by law. If the relative is legally in the U.S. already, they can request a status adjustment through forms that include the I-485.
Each eligible type of relative has a defined preference categorization, all of which have annual limits. F1, for example, which is First Preference, is for the unmarried, over 21-year-old children of United States citizens. 23,400 family preference green cards are appropriated for F1 applicants yearly, out of 226,000 available. Many Oxford, ME applicants end up waiting for years and, in some cases, decades for family preference green cards to be available.
Why Hire a Family-Based Immigration Attorney in Oxford, ME?
Navigating the immigration procedures takes time and substantial work and particular know-how. The processing times for family-based petitions are not made available by the United States Citizens and Immigration Services, which can differ based on where you're immigrating from and which preference category you belong to. However, some have reported fifteen-year or more wait for an F4 (sibling) visa. When you face this kind of potential delay, you must apply as early as possible and with the utmost accuracy. Family immigration lawyers near you in Oxford, ME can help you with the documentation and help ensure that it is properly filed for your desired visa.
Your Oxford, Maine immigration attorney can help you understand the ever-changing laws and regulations and clarify confusing paperwork. They understand the application timelines and can coach you or your family members prior to visa interviews. With experienced legal representation on your side, you may be able to get the visa much quicker, enjoy a more streamlined process, and boost your likelihood of success.
Family Immigration Attorney: Why Pick Weinstock Immigration Lawyers in Oxford, ME
When you or a family member is applying for a family preference green card, partner with the professionals at Weinstock Immigration Lawyers in Oxford, ME. Our founder personally immigrated to the United States, and numerous members of our team are immigrants or have immediate family members who are immigrants. Our multicultural, multilingual attorneys can guide your family through the immigration procedures and benefit from some of the immigration industry's highest approval rates.* We're ready to assist with all of your immigration requirements. Reach out today for a case evaluation at no cost.
*Disclaimer: Prior results do not guarantee a similar result.