Family-based immigration is one of the most common ways that people legally enter the United States. Those who have loved ones living in the United States may be eligible for visas or green cards based on their family relationships. Citizens and permanent residents can help their family members legally enter the country.
In some cases, the parents, siblings and other family members hoping to enter the country may end up involved in difficult situations. They may need immediate support because of unusual and concerning circumstances. Seeking visas or green cards can take months, if not years. In some cases, waiting that long could have tragic consequences.
Can unusual scenarios increase the speed with which an immigrant can enter the country?
The USCIS does consider emergencies
The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has the difficult task of evaluating immigration requests and applying existing rules on a case-by-case basis. Typically, all immigrants applying for certain types of visas face similar timelines regardless of their circumstances.
However, the USCIS can respond in unusual, unpredictable scenarios and provide expedited review in special circumstances. Typically, a situation must be relatively pressing to warrant special consideration. For example, if a family member who might qualify for a visa receives a diagnosis with a debilitating medical condition that they cannot treat in their current country, the need for treatment in the United States could influence how quickly the USCIS processes paperwork.
Special consideration is also available in scenarios involving sudden issues in the country of origin. Natural disasters, acts of terrorism, crimes targeting the prospective immigrant, political instability and persecution due to a change in regime could potentially constitute emergencies that affect USCIS turnaround times.
The nature of the issue and the degree of risk it poses for the person seeking family-based immigration can both influence how the USCIS responds. Proper documentation of the emergency issue is of the utmost importance. So is an understanding of the immigration laws that apply and the applicant’s eligibility.
Those worried about a family member facing hardship abroad may need help evaluating visa options, and that’s okay. Learning more about different family-based immigration programs can help those who want to provide relief for struggling loved ones.