The immigration team at Szabo, Zelnick & Erickson can provide the guidance and insight you need into the process of sponsoring an individual for a green card based on a family relationship. Our SZE immigration attorneys have the experience necessary to help you navigate through the paper intensive process of applying for a family member so they can obtain U.S. permanent resident status. In addition, we offer representation with processing applications at U.S. Consulates abroad. Certain family members are eligible for a green card if sponsored by a citizen or legal permanent resident of the U.S. The sponsoring family member must file an Alien Relative petition on your behalf. Then, depending on what type of family relationship exists between you and your U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident family member you will be assigned a visa category.
If you are the spouse, child, or parent (of a child over the age of 18) of a U.S. citizen (also known as an Immediate Relative) then a visa is immediately available to you. This means that once the Alien Relative petition is approved you may apply for your green card at a U.S. Consulate, or if you live in the U.S., you may be eligible to obtain your green card by filing the I-485, Application to Adjust Status.
If you are not an Immediate Relative, then you would fall into one of four family-based categories. When your Alien Relative petition is approved you are then eligible to apply for a green card once your priority date becomes current.
The family-based categories include:
- Family Based 1st : Unmarried sons and daughters of U.S. citizens
- Family Based 2nd: Spouses and unmarried sons and daughters of lawful permanent residents
- Family Based 3rd: Married sons and daughters of U.S. citizens
- Family Based 4th: Brothers/sisters of U.S. citizens
You can find the current priority dates for these categories by clicking here.
If you require assistance with applying for a family member of have any questions, please contact our office to arrange a consultation.