As seasoned Miami immigration attorneys, we understand that establishing a family base in the United States is a common desire for clients who have foreign relatives. U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents (green card holders) are allowed to sponsor their foreign family members to legally live with them by filing a Form I-130 Visa Petition, also known as a Petition for Alien Relative.
After United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) approves one’s Petition for Alien Relative, the relative can apply for a green card, otherwise known as lawful permanent residence.
There are two kinds of Form I-130 Visa Petitions. Immediate Relative petitions are only available to U.S. citizens, while Family Preference Petitions can be filed by both U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents.
Immediate Relative
U.S. citizens can file for:
- spouse
- unmarried children under the age of 21
- parents (if petitioner is over the age of 21)
Family Preference
U.S. citizens can file for:
- unmarried children over the age of 21
- married children of any age
- brothers and sisters (if petitioner is over the age of 21)
Lawful permanent resident can file for:
- spouse
- unmarried children of any age
If one’s relative legally resides in the U.S. already, he/she is typically eligible for an “adjustment of status.” Foreign relatives living overseas must first apply for an immigrant visa through a U.S. consulate, known as “consular processing.” For relatives who have entered or resided in the U.S. illegally, hiring a qualified Miami immigration attorney is crucial.
When filing Form I-130 Visa Petitions and subsequent green card applications, the professional assistance of a Miami immigration attorney is not only beneficial, but often a deciding factor in one’s securing the desired outcome. At Pimentel & Castillo, we are devoted to helping our clients properly prepare application forms and address any delays in obtaining USCIS approval. As a result, we’ve cultivated a lengthy track record of facilitating successful and stress-free filings for those we represent.