Galax, VA Family-Based Green Card Attorneys
A Family Preference Green Card permits particular family members of current U.S. citizens and permanent residents to gain permanent residency in Galax, VA and the United States in general. For U.S. citizens, family members that can be brought 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). If someone is a lawful permanent resident, eligible family members for this type of green card include unmarried children no matter what age, and spouses.
Green Cards for Family Preference Immigrants 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 Galax, VA can assist your family in determining the correct type of green card category, helping you unite with your family to build and continue your life together in the United States.
How Do Family-Based Green Cards Work in Galax, VA?
To start, the family member in Galax, VA who is a lawful permanent resident or a U.S. citizen files Form I-130, also called the Petition for Alien Relative. This form helps demonstrate the family relation necessary for the sponsorship. Once that petition 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 limits that Congress authorized. If the relative is legally in the U.S. already, they can apply for their status to be adjusted through form I-485 and others.
Each category of eligible relative falls into a category of preference, which has a set annual cap specific to that category. First Preference, or F1, for example is designated for unmarried children who are 21 or older of United States citizens. F1 is allocated 23,400 of 226,000 available yearly family preference green cards. Galax, VA applicants often wait for years or in some cases, even decades for family-sponsored green cards to become available.
Why Hire a Family-Based Immigration Attorney in Galax, VA?
Navigating the immigration procedures takes time and consistent effort and particular know-how. USCIS does not currently release specific wait times for the processing of family-based petitions, which can change considerably depending on the country 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. With this kind of potential wait, it's imperative that you apply as soon as possible and with accurate information. Your Galax, VA family immigration lawyer can help you present the requisite documents and ensure everything is properly filed for the correct visa.
Your Galax, Virginia immigration attorney can assist you with understanding constantly changing laws and regulations and interpret complex documentation. 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 shorten potential delays, benefit from a smoother experience, and increase your chances of a favorable outcome.
Why Choose Weinstock Immigration Lawyers As Your Galax, VA Family Immigration Lawyer
When you or a family member is applying for a family preference green card, select Weinstock Immigration Lawyers in Galax, VA. Our founder immigrated to the U.S. herself, and our team includes many individuals who are immigrants or have family members who immigrated here. Our multilingual, multicultural team of attorneys can guide your family through the immigration procedures 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: Prior results do not guarantee a similar result.