Family-Based Green Card Attorneys in Medford, MA
A Family Preference Green Card permits certain relatives of United States citizens and permanent residents to themselves become permanent residents in Medford, MA and all of the United States. With 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 (providing that the citizen is over 21). For those who are lawful permanent residents, eligible family members for this type of green card include unmarried children no matter what age, and spouses.
Green Cards for Family Preference Immigrants 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 Medford, MA can help you determine the correct type of green card category, reconnecting you with your family so you can build or advance your lives together in the U.S.
How Do Family-Based Green Cards Work in Medford, MA?
To start, the family member in Medford, MA who is either a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident must file Form I-130, also called the Petition for Alien Relative. This form verifies the familial connection that qualifies for the sponsorship. As soon as that form is approved, the family member who is not in the United States must remain waiting until visas are obtainable based on the date they apply and the current visa limits imposed by law. If the applying relative is already in the United States legally, they can request for their immigration status to be adjusted with various forms including I-485.
Each eligible type of relative falls into a category of preference, which has a set annual cap specific to that category. For example, First Preference, or F1, is assigned to U.S. citizens’ children who are older than 21 and unmarried. Only 23,400 family preference green cards are allocated to F1 out of 226,000 total each year. Many Medford, MA applicants end up waiting for years or even decades for family-sponsored green cards to become available.
What Are the Benefits of Hiring a Family-Based Immigration Lawyer in Medford, MA?
The legal immigration process takes a lot of time and significant efforts and legal understanding. 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 your preference category. With that being said, there are reports of more than fifteen-year waits for F4, or sibling, visas. When you face this kind of potential delay, it's critical that you file as soon as you can and with accurate information. Medford, MA family immigration attorneys can assist with all the required paperwork and correctly file it for your specific visa type.
Immigration lawyers in Medford, MA can assist you with understanding laws and regulations that change constantly 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 can reduce wait times, experience a smoother application, and improve your family's chances to achieve the desired outcome.
Weinstock Immigration Lawyers in Medford, MA: Your Family Immigration Attorney
If you or a family member plans to apply for a family preference green card, pick Weinstock Immigration Lawyers in Medford, MA. Our founder personally immigrated to the United States, and many of our team members are immigrants or have family members who immigrated here. Our multicultural, multilingual team can help your family navigate the legal immigration process and experience some of the industry's highest rates of success.* We're ready to assist with your and your family's immigration necessities. Reach out today for a case evaluation at no cost.
*Disclaimer: Previous results do not guarantee future outcomes.