Cambridge, MA Family-Based Green Card Attorneys
A Family Preference Green Card permits specified family members of current U.S. citizens and permanent residents to gain permanent residency in Cambridge, MA and all of the United States. For those who are U.S. citizens, relatives eligible to come to the U.S. with this type 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, relatives who could qualify for this type of green card include spouses and unmarried children of any age.
Family preference green cards differ in process from immediate family green cards, which are meant for parents, spouses, and minor children of U.S. citizens. A family green card attorney in Cambridge, MA can help your family decide the correct type of green card category, helping you reunite with your family and begin or expand your life in the U.S. together.
How Do Family-Preference Green Cards Work in Cambridge, MA?
To get started, the family member located in Cambridge, MA who is either a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident has to file Form I-130, which is the Petition for Alien Relative. This form proves the family relationship needed for sponsorship. Next, after USCIS approves the petition, the family member who lives abroad must remain waiting until visas are obtainable dependent on the date of submission and the annual visa limits that Congress authorized. If the family member is legally in the United States, they can petition for a status adjustment by filing forms including I-485.
Each eligible type of relative is assigned a preference category, which each have their own 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 Cambridge, MA applicants end up waiting for years or in many instances, decades for family preference green cards to be available.
Why Hire a Family-Based Immigration Attorney in Cambridge, MA?
Navigating the immigration procedures takes time and significant efforts and particular know-how. The USCIS does not disclose estimated processing times for family-based petitions, which can fluctuate substantially 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, it's imperative that you apply as soon as possible and with accurate information. A family immigration attorney in Cambridge, MA can help you present the requisite documents and ensure that you file it correctly for the proper visa type.
Your Cambridge, Massachusetts immigration attorney can help you understand the laws and regulations that change constantly and clarify confusing paperwork. They have a grasp of application timetables and can help your family get ready for eventual visa interviews. With experienced attorneys representing you and your family, you may be able to get the visa much quicker, enjoy a more streamlined process, and increase your chances of a favorable outcome.
Family Immigration Attorney: Why Pick Weinstock Immigration Lawyers in Cambridge, MA
When you or a family member decides to pursue a family-based green card, choose Weinstock Immigration Lawyers in Cambridge, MA. 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 multicultural, multilingual team will assist your family through the legal immigration system and enjoy some of the industry's highest rates of approval.* We're ready to help with your and your family's immigration necessities. Start today with a free case evaluation.
*Disclaimer: Past results do not ensure similar outcomes.