One of the highlights of the American immigration system is the ability for families to reunite from across the world. Citizens and permanent residents of this country can sponsor certain family members for visas, which is often the only opportunity to bring multiple generations of a family together in one place.
This process takes time, and success is not guaranteed. Thankfully, a Los Angeles family immigration lawyer could help you with everything from filing an application to dealing with delays. Reach out to a skilled immigration attorney today to learn more.
There are two distinct programs for sponsoring a loved one to immigrate to the United States. They are known as the immediate relative and family preference systems.
Of the two options, the immediate relative system is preferred due to the lack of annual visa caps, meaning non-residents are not left waiting years. Qualifications for this approach are strictly enforced, as it is only available to the relatives of American citizens. Even then, only certain family members can be sponsored in this way. A citizen can sponsor their spouses, and they can do the same for their parents as long as they are over the age of 21.
Citizens can sponsor their children, but there are some limitations to be aware of. For starters, children have to be under the age of 21 and unmarried. If either of these factors disqualifies them, they will need to rely on the family preference system.
Family preference is for the family members of citizens who do not qualify for the expedited system, like married children or siblings. This path is also available to family members of lawful permanent residents, including their spouses and children. The major downside to this method is that it can take years to receive a decision—good or bad. This is due to the annual cap on family preference visas.
A family immigration lawyer in Los Angeles could assist with either process, helping to ensure all necessary documentation is completed accurately and submitted on time.
The time it takes to complete a family visa application depends on several factors, the most important of which is the program the applicant used. Those who qualify as immediate family members of U.S. citizens will undoubtedly receive a decision before someone in the family preference system. While pursuing a visa for an immediate relative can take close to a year, everyone else will wait much longer.
Sometimes, the delays in these cases become unreasonably long. When that happens, a Los Angeles family immigration attorney may be able to help speed up the decision-making process. In some cases, this takes little more than a call to United States Citizenship and Immigration Services. In others, it may be necessary to file a type of legal action known as a writ of mandamus to force USCIS to act.
If you believe you qualify for a visa and your relative is willing to act as your sponsor, now is the right time to act. This process will take time, and starting right away can lead to the best results. Reach out to a Los Angeles family immigration lawyer today to get started.
