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Family-Based Visas for the US – Bringing Your Loved Ones to America

The United States is a land of opportunity, and many families around the world dream of bringing their loved ones to America. Fortunately, the U.S. government offers several family-based visas that allow U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents (green card holders) to sponsor their family members for immigration. In this guide, we will explain what family-based visas are, who is eligible, and how to apply.

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Family visa

Types of Family-Based Visas

There are two main categories of family-based visas: immediate relative visas and family preference visas.

Immediate Relative Visas

Immediate relative visas are available to the closest relatives of U.S. citizens, including:

  • Spouses of U.S. citizens
  • Unmarried children under the age of 21 of U.S. citizens
  • Parents of U.S. citizens who are at least 21 years old

Immediate relative visas do not have annual limits, which means that there is no waiting period for a visa to become available. This makes immediate relative visas the fastest way to bring a family member to the United States.

Family Preference Visas

Family preference visas are available to more distant relatives of U.S. citizens and green card holders, including:

  • Unmarried children over the age of 21 of U.S. citizens
  • Married children of U.S. citizens
  • Brothers and sisters of U.S. citizens
  • Spouses and unmarried children of green card holders

Family preference visas have annual limits, which means that there may be a waiting period for a visa to become available. The waiting period can range from several months to several years, depending on the category and the country of origin of the applicant.

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Eligibility Requirements

To sponsor a family member for a family-based visa, you must meet the following eligibility requirements:

  • Be a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident (green card holder)
  • Be at least 18 years old
  • Have a qualifying relationship with the family member you want to sponsor
  • Meet the financial requirements to support the family member

The financial requirements vary depending on the family member being sponsored and the sponsor’s income level. For example, a sponsor of a spouse must demonstrate that they have an income that is at least 125% of the federal poverty level.

How to Apply

To apply for a family-based visa, the sponsor must file a Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The form must include evidence of the qualifying relationship between the sponsor and the family member, such as a marriage certificate or birth certificate.

Once the I-130 petition is approved, the family member can apply for an immigrant visa or adjust their status to become a lawful permanent resident. The process for obtaining an immigrant visa or adjusting status varies depending on the family member’s country of origin and immigration history.

Conclusion

Family-based visas are a valuable tool for bringing loved ones to the United States. Whether you are a U.S. citizen or a green card holder, there are several options available to sponsor your family members for immigration. While the process can be complex and time-consuming, with the right guidance and preparation, you can successfully navigate the family-based visa process and bring your loved ones to America.

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