Family-Based Immigration
You can never overstate the importance of family. Whether you are trying to bring a family member to the United States or you are trying to keep your family together in the United States, the immigration system can be extremely confusing and difficult. With years of experience, Flora Legal Group and their specialized immigration lawyers can help you and your family achieve your immigration goals – as a family, together as you should be.
Flora Legal Group is a full-service law firm committed to compassionate advocacy for you and your loved ones. Our team has extensive experience successfully helping families just like yours navigate the immigration system.
What is a family-based immigrant visa?
A family-based immigrant visa (or green card) can be granted for immediate or close relatives. Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, is filed to establish that a valid family relationship exists between a U.S. citizen or permanent resident and a person seeking a green card. A USCIS approved Form I-130 is only the beginning in getting your loved one to the United States or keeping them here.
The I-130 petition often requires documentation of the qualifying relationship between the U.S. citizen or permanent resident and those seeking a green card. Flora Legal Group can help you organize and submit all the proper documentation for your I-130 petition for your immediate family members.
Who qualifies as an immediate family member?
A family member or relative is considered immediate if they are a:
- Spouse of a U.S. citizen;
- Child under the age of 21 of a U.S. citizen;
- Parents of a U.S. citizen child at least 21 years of age;
- Widow or widower of a U.S. citizen (as long as a petition was filed before the death of the U.S. citizen or within 2 years of the citizen’s death).
Although they may still be sponsored, relatives not listed above may have restrictions and/or limitations placed on them. Keep in mind that these cases will not be considered the same priority as those filing for immediate family members. If you have questions about the eligibility of your loved one, Flora Legal Group will look at the entirety of your case and help you determine the best course of action to unite your family.
Indianapolis Immigration Law Firm
One of the main passions at Flora Legal Group is to reconnect individuals with their family. We understand how painful it can be to be separated from your loved ones and want to help make the process of bringing them to America less stressful. Our immigration lawyers provide supportive, personal service to straighten out any immigration legal challenges you face. Call Flora Legal Group today at (317) 983-3437 to schedule your consultation! It’s time to bring your family home.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take for the I-130 to be approved?
The processing time will depend on the family relationship and USCIS office processing your petition. Cases are typically processed in the order USCIS office receives them. Once you have filed Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, for immediate relatives you could receive approval within one year. But, if you are petitioning under the Family Preference Category, the processing time could be several years.
What kind of documentation will I need to file an I-130?
One I-130 form will need to be filed for each family member that the petitioner is filing for. Each petition will need to include the following documents:
- Proof of petitioner’s citizenship or lawful permanent residence such as a birth certificate, passport, naturalization certificate or permanent resident card.
- Proof of familial relationship. This will vary depending on the relationship. For a spouse this could be a marriage certificate; for a child if would be their birth certificate with the petitioner’s named as a biological parent; for a parent it would be the petitioner’s birth certificate.
- Two photographs of the petitioner, two photographs of the spouse and a completed and signed Form I-130A.
This is not a complete list and your requirements may vary based on your situation. With Flora Legal Group, you get the confidence that your petition will be reviewed thoroughly and all of your questions will be answered. Our team has years of experience helping families petition for their family members and we look forward to helping your family.
What is the I-130 fee?
The fee for filing a Petition for Alien Relatives (I-130) is $535 according to USCIS.
Is there a limit to the number of petitions I can file?
No, there is no limit to the number of petitions you can file for eligible family members.
What happens after I-130 is approved?
The approval of your I-130 petition is good news, but it’s only the beginning for the application of a green card or lawful permanent residence status.
Your approved application will be forwarded to the National Visa Center (NVC) by USCIS for pre-processing. Additional forms, documentation of petitioners, and fees will be collected during this time. The individual who will be immigrating to the U.S. will need to submit an application for a visa during this processing as well. Flora Legal Group can help both parties complete all necessary forms and actions for seamless legal immigration. Let our family help bring your family together.