Do you have an immediate relative such as a child, spouse, or parent who wants to live permanently in the United States? Or do you have a more distant relative or have a relationship with an individual who wants to become a permanent resident of the U.S.? If so, you need to file a family-based visa application. While visas for immediate family members is unlimited, there could be caps on visas for more distant relatives or those you have other types of relationships with. It’s important you understand this as well as the steps to take to file these applications.
Here’s more information on filing family-based visa applications and why you should work with an attorney like Jason Feldman from Feldman, Feldman, & Associates.
Steps for Family-Based Visa Applications
Understanding the steps you need to take will help you move forward with the application process. Keep in mind that when you work with an immigration lawyer such as Jason Feldman from Feldman, Feldman, & Associates, you will have assistance every step of the way.
- Step one: Initiate the petition. To initiate the petition, you will need to file a Form I-130, which is a Petition for Alien Relative. You will need to file separate petitions for each family member. There is no waiting list for immediate relatives but there may be a backlog or wait for more distant relatives.
- Step two: USCIS processing. The form will then be processed by the U.S. Department of State’s National Visa Center. This could take anywhere from 10 to 13 months for those who are immediate relatives and several years for more distant relatives. You will be notified when the application is approved.
How an Immigration Attorney Can Help with Family-Based Visas
In some cases, you will be able to file your petition and it will proceed smoothly. However, this does not always happen and it’s a good idea to reach out to an immigration attorney like Jason Feldman from Feldman, Feldman, & Associates to assist. Here is how an attorney can help.
- Help you understand complex laws that are continuously changing.
- Help you assess eligibility of your relatives.
- Assist you in choosing the right visa type.
- Ensure the accuracy of your petition.
- Help you submit your petition at the right time and to the right place.
- Help you gather evidence to prove your relationship and ensure eligibility of your relative.
- Identify any potential problems with your application.
- Help you with the interview process by going through common scenarios and questions.
- Assist you with understanding and navigating any delays in the process.
- Appeal a decision if the petition is denied.
Working with Jason Feldman from Feldman, Feldman & Associates
If you want to file a family-based visa for one of your relatives living outside the United States, it’s important to get the assistance of an immigration lawyer like Jason Feldman from Feldman, Feldman & Associates. Your attorney can help you understand the sometimes confusing process and be by your side every step of the way as you work to bring your family member to this country.
