America L-1 Intra-Company Transfer Visa
America H-1B, H-2A, H-2B and H3 Temporary Work Visa
America O Visa (Individuals with Extraordinary Ability)
America I Visa (Journalists and Media Workers)
America P Visa (Athletes, Artists and Entertainers)
America Q-1 Cultural Exchange Program Visa
America R Visa (Religious Workers)
📝 Family-Based Green Card
The Family-Based Green Card application is one of the most common methods for applying for permanent residency in the United States. This process is done through a U.S. citizen or a legal permanent resident (Green Card holder) relative. Applying through family sponsorship allows the applicant to obtain permanent residency in the U.S.
📄 What is the Family-Based Green Card?
A Family-Based Green Card allows a U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident to bring certain relatives to the U.S. and grant them permanent residency. The application process can vary depending on the applicant's relationship with the relative in the U.S. and the specific date the application is filed.
📄 Application Process
The application process for a Family-Based Green Card differs based on whether the applicant is inside or outside the U.S. If the applicant is outside the U.S., the application is processed through the consulate. If the applicant is already in the U.S., the process involves changing their status.
The process begins with the U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident relative filling out Form I-130. This form is used to apply for approval for the applicant to immigrate to the U.S. The form, along with proof of the family relationship, is submitted to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
Once Form I-130 is approved, the applicant's case is forwarded to the appropriate U.S. consulate. The applicant is invited for an interview, where their family relationship and personal information will be verified. After the interview, the immigrant visa is approved.
Once the visa is approved, the applicant can travel to the U.S. and apply for permanent residency by filing for a Green Card once they are in the U.S.
If the applicant is already in the U.S., the process involves filing Form I-485 to adjust their status. After submitting Form I-485, the applicant may undergo biometrics collection and possibly an interview. Once the status change is approved, the applicant receives their Green Card by mail.
📝 Required Documents
The required documents for a Family-Based Green Card application depend on the applicant's situation. Generally, the following documents are required:
Form I-130, completed by the U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident relative. Form I-485, for applicants who are already in the U.S., for adjusting status. Form I-864 (Affidavit of Support), a form showing the sponsor's commitment to financially support the applicant. Form I-693, a medical examination report. A valid passport, birth certificate, marriage certificate (if applicable), and biometric photographs are also required.
📄 Visa Types
The types of visas available through family-based applications vary depending on the relationship between the applicant and the relative. These visas are as follows:
IR-1: U.S. citizen's spouse.
IR-2: U.S. citizen's unmarried child under 21 years old.
IR-5: U.S. citizen's parent (over 21 years old).
F1: U.S. citizen's unmarried child over 21 years old.
F2A: Green Card holder's spouse and unmarried child under 21 years old.
F2B: Green Card holder's unmarried child over 21 years old.
F3: U.S. citizen's married child and their children.
F4: U.S. citizen's siblings and their children.
📄 Waiting Times
The waiting times for Family-Based Green Card applications vary depending on the visa category. For F category visas, the waiting time may be longer, while IR category visas tend to have shorter processing times. Depending on the visa type and the volume of applications, the approval process can take several years.
📄 Important Notes
Visa quotas may affect the approval process. F category visas have annual quotas, which may delay processing times. Additionally, the applicant must have a sponsor in the U.S. to support them financially. The sponsor must submit Form I-864, committing to financially support the applicant.
The Family-Based Green Card application process can be complex, and seeking professional legal advice may expedite the process. This service ensures that the application is completed accurately and without errors.