Immediate Relatives

Immigration Services for Immediate Relatives

Certain pathways are available for close family members of U.S. citizens to immigrate to the United States. These options are designed to prioritize family reunification and facilitate the immigration process for individuals with immediate ties to U.S. citizens. Immediate relatives include spouses, young unmarried children, and parents of U.S. citizens. Unlike other family preference categories, immediate relatives are not subject to annual numerical limits on visa availability, making the process quicker and more straightforward.

Immediate relative immigration is governed by U.S. immigration laws and regulations administered by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and the U.S. Department of State (DOS). Visa types include spouse of a U.S. citizen (IR-1), unmarried child under 21 of a U.S. citizen (IR-2), orphan adopted abroad by a U.S. citizen (IR-3), orphan to be adopted in the U.S. by a U.S. citizen (IR-4), and parent of a U.S. citizen who is at least 21 years old (IR-5). Understanding the options and process for immediate relative immigration is crucial for families seeking to reunite in the United States. Working with the Law Office of Rosemary Vega’s immigration attorneys will ensure that you follow the correct legal procedures and have the support needed to navigate the process smoothly, leading to the successful reunification of your family.

Types of Immediate Relatives Immigration

One of the most common immediate relative immigration options is spousal sponsorship. U.S. citizens can petition for their foreign-born spouses to obtain lawful permanent residency (green card) in the United States. This process typically involves the U.S. citizen filing Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, with USCIS, along with supporting documentation to establish the bona fide nature of the marital relationship.

Similarly, U.S. citizens can sponsor their unmarried children under 21 years old for immigration to the United States. This process also begins with the filing of Form I-130 with USCIS, accompanied by evidence of the parent-child relationship, such as birth certificates or adoption decrees. Citizens can also petition for their parents to immigrate to the United States as immediate relatives. This process involves filing Form I-130 with USCIS, along with evidence of the parent-child relationship, such as birth certificates or marriage certificates. Unlike spousal and child sponsorship, there is no age requirement for parent sponsorship, allowing U.S. citizens to sponsor their parents regardless of age.

Immediate Relatives Immigration Process

For immediate family members of U.S. citizens, the immigration process typically begins with the petitioner (current citizen) filing Form I-130 with USCIS. Once the petition is approved, USCIS forwards the approved petition to the National Visa Center (NVC) for further processing. The NVC coordinates with the U.S. consulate or embassy in the beneficiary's home country to schedule an immigrant visa interview.

During the immigrant visa interview, the beneficiary must demonstrate their eligibility for immigration benefits, including proving their relationship to the U.S. citizen petitioner and meeting admissibility requirements. If approved, the beneficiary receives an immigrant visa, allowing them to travel to the United States and seek admission as a lawful permanent resident.

If the beneficiary is already in the United States and eligible to adjust status to lawful permanent residency, they may do so by filing Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, with USCIS. Adjustment of status allows eligible immediate relatives to obtain lawful permanent residency without leaving the United States.

While designed to be straightforward, the immediate relative immigration process can become complex due to various factors. Working with an experienced immigration attorney can ensure that families navigate the process efficiently and effectively. With legal assistance, families can navigate the immigration process with confidence, minimizing delays and increasing the likelihood of a positive outcome.

Legal Guidance During Immediate Relative Immigration

Legal guidance during immediate relative immigration is essential to ensure a smooth and successful process for families seeking to reunite in the United States. At the Law Office of Rosemary Vega, our experienced immigration attorneys provide personalized assistance to navigate the complexities of immediate relative immigration. Thanks to our personal and professional experiences with immigration law, we understand the importance of family unity and are committed to helping our clients achieve their immigration goals.

Our attorneys offer comprehensive support throughout every step of the immigration process, from preparing and filing petitions to representing clients at visa interviews and adjustment of status hearings. We provide guidance on gathering and organizing required documentation, ensuring that all forms are completed accurately and that they are submitted in a timely manner.

With our legal skills and compassionate approach, we strive to alleviate the stress and uncertainty often associated with immigration proceedings. We are dedicated to advocating for the best interests of our clients and their families, working tirelessly to overcome any obstacles that may arise during the immigration process. If you are navigating immediate relative immigration and seeking professional legal assistance, contact the Law Office of Rosemary Vega today. Let us provide you with the guidance and support you need to reunite with your loved ones.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Immediate relative immigration refers to the process by which certain close family members of U.S. citizens can apply for lawful permanent residency (green card) in the United States. Immediate relatives include spouses, unmarried children under 21, and parents of U.S. citizens.
The process typically involves the U.S. citizen petitioner submitting a Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, on behalf of their eligible family member. Once the petition is approved, the beneficiary may apply for an immigrant visa (if outside the U.S.) or adjust status to lawful permanent resident (if already in the U.S.).
Immediate relatives are not subject to numerical visa limitations, so there is usually no waiting period for visa availability. However, processing times for petitions and visa applications may vary depending on factors such as country of origin and USCIS workload.
Once the beneficiary's Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, is pending, they may be eligible to apply for employment authorization, allowing them to work legally in the United States while awaiting their green card.
To qualify for immediate relative immigration, the petitioner must be a U.S. citizen, and the beneficiary must meet certain relationship criteria, such as being a spouse, child, or parent of the petitioner. Additionally, both parties must meet other immigration eligibility requirements, such as passing background checks and medical examinations.
Immediate relatives who have pending green card applications may face travel restrictions if they depart the U.S. without obtaining advance parole. Leaving the country without advance parole could result in the abandonment of their application. It's essential to consult with an immigration attorney before making any travel plans.