Understanding Family-Based Green Cards

Family-Based Green Cards allow U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents (LPRs) to sponsor certain family members for permanent residency in the United States. The process varies depending on your relationship with the family member you’re sponsoring, and the category they fall under.

There are two main categories of Family-Based Green Cards:

• Immediate Relatives
  Immediate relatives of U.S. citizens enjoy a special immigration status that allows them to obtain a green card without waiting for a visa number to become available. Immediate relatives include:

• Spouses of U.S. citizens
• Unmarried children under 21 years of age of U.S. citizens
• Parents of U.S. citizens (if the U.S. citizen is over 21 years of age)

For these cases, the process is typically faster, as there are no annual limits on the number of green cards available for immediate relatives.

• Family Preference Categories
  Family members who don’t fall into the immediate relatives category are placed into the Family Preference Categories, which are subject to annual numerical limits. These categories include:

• F1: Unmarried sons and daughters (21 years of age or older) of U.S. citizens
• F2A: Spouses and unmarried children (under 21 years of age) of lawful permanent residents
• F2B: Unmarried sons and daughters (21 years of age or older) of lawful permanent residents
• F3: Married sons and daughters of U.S. citizens
• F4: Brothers and sisters of U.S. citizens (if the U.S. citizen is over 21 years of age)

Because these categories are subject to annual quotas, the waiting times for a green card can vary significantly depending on the preference category and the applicant’s country of origin. We stay on top of these changes and help you understand your place in the queue, keeping you informed every step of the way.

How We Help

Petitioning for a Family Member
The first step in the process is filing a petition with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This involves submitting Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, along with evidence that proves the legitimacy of your relationship. We assist in gathering and organizing the necessary documentation, ensuring that your petition is accurate, complete, and compelling. From marriage certificates to birth records, we make sure every detail is in order.

Adjustment of Status or Consular Processing
Once your petition is approved, your family member can apply for a green card. If they are already in the U.S., they may be eligible for Adjustment of Status, which allows them to obtain their green card without leaving the country. If they are outside the U.S., they will go through Consular Processing, where they will attend an interview at a U.S. consulate or embassy in their home country. We guide you through each step of these processes, preparing you for interviews and ensuring that all paperwork is handled correctly.

Overcoming Challenges
Immigration cases can be complex, and sometimes, challenges arise that need special attention. Whether your case involves issues like past immigration violations, criminal records, or complex family situations, we’re here to find solutions. We will explore waivers, appeals, and other legal remedies to ensure that your family has the best possible chance of reuniting.

Support Throughout the Process
At Conklin Immigration Law, LLC, we understand that the immigration process can be stressful and emotionally draining. That's why we prioritize communication and transparency. We keep you informed about the status of your case, respond promptly to your questions, and provide the support you need to navigate this journey with confidence.

Why Choose Conklin Immigration Law?

Choosing the right legal representation can make all the difference in your immigration journey. At Conklin Immigration Law, LLC, we combine decades of experience with a deep commitment to our clients. We believe in treating every case with the respect and personal attention it deserves, ensuring that you feel supported every step of the way.

We serve clients across the entire United States and offer remote services to accommodate your needs, no matter where you or your family members are located. Our goal is to make the immigration process as smooth and stress-free as possible, so you can focus on what truly matters—your family.

If you're ready to bring your loved ones to the United States or need help navigating the Family-Based Green Card process, contact Conklin Immigration Law, LLC today. We're here to help you every step of the way.