Family-Based lawyer in San Diego
What Is the Family-Based Green Cards?
Through family-based green cards, I help certain relatives of U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents (green card holders) obtain permanent residence in the United States.
Family sponsorship is one of the most common immigration pathways I handle, but your eligibility depends on your specific family relationship and the immigration status of the sponsoring relative.
While some family categories have visas available immediately, I will advise you if your case is subject to annual limits that could result in longer wait times.
Benefits of a Family-Based Green Card
If I successfully secure your family-based green card, it will allow you to:
- Live permanently in the United States
- Work for any employer
- Travel internationally
- Eventually apply for U.S. citizenship, if eligible
Immediate Relatives vs. Family Preference Categories
In my practice, I divide family-based immigration into two main groups to determine the best strategy for you.
Immediate Relatives of U.S. Citizens
This category generally includes:
- Spouses
- Unmarried children under 21
- Parents of U.S. citizens (if the citizen is at least 21)
I prioritize these cases when possible because they are not subject to annual visa limits, which can make the process faster in some situations.
Family Preference Categories
Other family relationships fall into preference categories with annual visa limits. I will help you navigate the waiting periods that may apply depending on demand and country of origin. Examples include:
- Adult children of U.S. citizens
- Siblings of U.S. citizens
- Spouses or children of permanent residents
Who is Eligible to Sponsor?
U.S. immigration law allows me to assist citizens and permanent residents in sponsoring certain relatives.
U.S. Citizens May Sponsor:
- Spouses
- Children
- Parents
- Brothers and sisters
Green Card Holders May Sponsor:
- Spouses
- Unmarried children
I will evaluate your case as eligibility and processing times vary depending on the family relationship and immigration category.
General Application Process
I typically begin family-based green card cases by filing a petition to establish the qualifying family relationship. Depending on where you are located, I will guide you through the process via:
- Adjustment of Status if you are already in the United States, or
- Consular Processing through a U.S. embassy or consulate abroad.
In every case I manage, I oversee the background checks, documentation review, and preparation for the immigration interview.
Important Considerations.
As an EB-1A lawyer in San Diego, I meticulously analyze potential obstacles before they become problems. I tailor my strategy to account for:
- Immigration history
- Prior visa overstays
- Criminal history
- Prior petitions or applications
Because every situation is different, I tailor the strategy to your specific needs.
Schedule a Consultation
Family-based immigration laws can be complex, and I know that processing times vary widely. If you are considering sponsoring a family member, my office can evaluate your situation and help determine the appropriate immigration strategy.
Schedule a consultation with me today to discuss your eligibility and our next steps.
Immigration Updates And Resources
The $100,000 H-1B Fee: What Employers and Professionals Must Know About the New Presidential Proclamation
Can You Travel While Your Green Card Application Is Pending? Here’s What You Need to Know
