The U.S. immigration process is quite complex. There is a lengthy list of qualifications, multiple forms to fill, and support documents to provide. So what happens if you are a citizen looking to reunite with a family member through immigration? Legally, citizens and permanent residents can petition the federal government to qualify family members for citizenship and permanent residency. Family immigration attorneys can assist in processing entry through the family immigration criteria. 

Family-Based Green Card 

Family-based green cards are a popular method of gaining residency in the United States. In this program, there are two types of immigration visas targeting immediate relatives and preferred family members. The immediate relative's visa is open to parents, spouses, and minor children of a U.S. citizen. Notably, there are no limitations to the number of visas issued under this category. 

In comparison, a family preference visa applies to the following:

• Married children of a U.S. citizen, their spouses, and children
• Unmarried adult children of U.S citizens and their minor children
• Siblings of U.S. citizens and their minor children
• The spouses, minor children, and unmarried adult children of legal permanent residents

The government limits the preference visas issued in a year. Thus, the waiting period for the applicants can take years before approval.

K-1 Visas

The K-1 visa is also known as the fiancé visa. This type of visa is reserved for U.S. citizens wishing to bring their partners to the country for a wedding. The K-1 visa allows a potential spouse to enter the country 90 days before the wedding day. Fortunately, it is possible to apply for an adjustment after the marriage through a green card application. However, only a U.S. citizen and not a green card holder has the legal mandate to petition for the fiancé visa. 

K-3 Visa 

A foreign spouse to a U.S. citizen is eligible for the K-3 visa. Typically, the K-3 visa, also known as the marriage visa, allows a foreign spouse to enter the country before an immigration petition determination. Thus, this option is ideal for spouses who do not wish to wait in their national or resident countries. 

How do Family Immigration Lawyers Assist?

The family immigration lawyers offer varied support services based on the type of visa. In the first instance, the lawyer helps the client interpret the law and analyze eligibility criteria for any family-based immigration visas. Having established admissibility, the attorneys guide the clients in filling the visa application forms and petitions. Additionally, the lawyers provide counsel on gathering the support evidence for the application process. 

Do not gamble when petitioning the U.S. government for a family-based visa. Get help. Consider engaging the services of a family immigration attorney to increase the chances of a successful outcome. The lawyer will offer counsel, explain the process, and do the necessary paperwork. Contact a family immigration lawyer for more information.