Family Based Green Cards

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Family-based Green Cards (lawful permanent residence) allow eligible close relatives of U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents (Green Card holders) to live and work permanently in the United States. This pathway, rooted in family reunification, is one of the most common ways to obtain permanent residency.

At Pawlik Law Group we guide families through every step of the family-based immigration process with personalized attention, meticulous preparation, and a commitment to achieving successful outcomes.

U.S. immigration law divides family-based Green Cards into two main groups:

Immediate Relatives of U.S. citizens (no annual numerical limits or long visa backlogs in most cases):

• Spouses of U.S. citizens
• Unmarried children under 21 years old of U.S. citizens
• Parents of U.S. citizens (if the citizen is at least 21 years old)

Family Preference Categories (subject to annual visa limits, which can create wait times depending on the category and country of origin):

• F1: Unmarried sons and daughters (21+) of U.S. citizen

• F2A: Spouses and unmarried children under 21 of lawful permanent residents

• F2B: Unmarried sons and daughters (21+) of lawful permanent residents

• F3: Married sons and daughters of U.S. citizens

• F4: Brothers and sisters of U.S. citizens (if the citizen is at least 21 years old)

Permanent residents cannot petition for parents, married children, or siblings.

The process typically involves two main phases and varies depending on whether the relative is already in the U.S. or abroad.

1. File the Petition (Form I-130): The U.S. citizen or permanent resident sponsor files Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, with USCIS to establish the qualifying family relationship. Supporting documents (such as birth certificates, marriage certificates, proof of U.S. status) must prove the relationship is genuine. Approval of the I-130 establishes a "priority date" (especially important for preference categories).

2. Apply for Permanent Residence: Once the I-130 is approved and an immigrant visa number is available (immediate for most immediate relatives; may require waiting for preference categories per the monthly Visa Bulletin):

• If the relative is already in the U.S. (and was inspected and admitted or paroled): File Form I-485, Application to Adjust Status, with USCIS. Concurrent filing (I-130 + I-485 together) is often possible for immediate relatives and some others.

• If the relative is outside the U.S.: Proceed through consular processing at a U.S. embassy or consulate abroad (National Visa Center handles intermediate steps after I-130 approval).

• Form I-864, Affidavit of Support, from the sponsor (and possibly joint sponsors) proving they can financially support the relative to prevent them from becoming a public charge.

• Medical examination, biometrics, and an interview (with USCIS or the consular officer).

• Background checks and security clearances.

Family immigration cases often involve emotional stakes, complex documentation, potential backlogs (especially for preference categories from high-demand countries), and evolving rules. Our experienced immigration attorneys:

• Assess your specific family situation to determine the best category and strategy.
• Prepare and submit accurate, thorough applications to minimize requests for evidence or denials.
• Monitor Visa Bulletin updates and priority dates.
• Represent you at interviews and handle any complications, such as proving bona fide marriages or addressing prior immigration issues.

Reuniting families in the United States is a core part of what we do. Contact us today for a confidential consultation to discuss your family's path to permanent residency.