PRACTICE AREAS

Immigration

1. Green Card Through Family

a. Green Card for an Immediate Relative of a U.S. Citizen: Immigration law allows U.S. citizens to petition for certain qualified relatives to come and live permanently in the United States. Eligible immediate relatives include the U.S. citizen’s spouse, unmarried child under the age of 21, Parent (if the U.S. citizen is over the age of 21).

b. Green Card for a Family Member of a U.S. Citizen - If the family member of the U.S. citizen is not an immediate relative, then the U.S. citizen may still be able to sponsor them via what is called a “family preference category.” Eligible relatives include unmarried sons or daughters over the age of 21, married child(ren) of any age, brothers or sisters (if the U.S. citizen petitioner is over the age of 21).

c. Green Card for a Family Member of a Permanent Resident - Immigration law allows permanent residents of the United States (green card holders) to petition for certain eligible relatives to come and live permanently in the United States. A permanent resident may petition for his/her spouse and unmarried child(ren) of any age to immigrate to the United States. Congress has limited the number of relatives who may immigrate under these categories each year so there is generally a waiting period before an immigrant visa number becomes available. If your family relationship qualifies you as an eligible relative of a U.S. permanent resident, then you are in what is called a “family preference category.”.

d. Green Card Through Special Categories of Family - You may be able to become a permanent resident (get a green card) through a special family situation. These adjustment of status programs are limited to individuals who meet particular qualifications and/or apply during certain time frames.