Experienced Immigration Lawyer Handling Family-Based Petitions For Green Cards
At the law office of Jason Karavias, Esq., I have dedicated over two decades to assisting individuals and families in securing their futures through family-based petitions for green cards. My firm is based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and I proudly serve clients across the United States in all matters related to immigration law.
If you are a U.S. citizen seeking a green card for a relative, I am here to help. I encourage you to reach out today via phone at 412-223-7924 or use my online contact form to schedule a free initial consultation.
Understanding The Family-Based Green Card Process For Relatives Of U.S. Citizens
The journey to obtaining a green card for your family members involves determining the most suitable path: adjustment of status or consular processing. If your relative is already in the U.S., the adjustment of status process can allow them to apply for lawful permanent resident status without needing to return to their home country.
Consular processing is the right process to use when your family member currently resides outside the United States. Both pathways require thorough documentation and strict adherence to immigration laws, a process I am prepared to guide you through.
Eligibility
Eligibility for a family-based green card hinges on a close family relationship with a U.S. citizen. Eligible relationships include:
- Spouse of a U.S. citizen
- Unmarried child under 21 years of age of a U.S. citizen
- Parent of a U.S. citizen, provided the citizen is at least 21 years old
These relationships prioritize the applicant’s process, often simplifying and expediting the procedure.
Inadmissibility
Certain conditions may render an applicant inadmissible, blocking the path to a green card. Common grounds for inadmissibility include certain criminal records, previous immigration law violations and health-related issues. However, waivers of inadmissibility may be available depending on the specifics of the case. It is critical to address these potential hurdles proactively to enhance the likelihood of a favorable outcome.
How To Apply
The application process for a family-based green card sponsored by a U.S. citizen involves several key documents and steps:
- Form I-485 for adjustment of status or consular processing documentation
- Evidence of the familial relationship, such as birth or marriage certificates
- Proof of the petitioner’s U.S. citizenship
- Comprehensive background information and supporting documents as required
I will personally assist you in compiling the necessary documentation and guide you through each step of the application process.
Information And Guidance For Green Card Relative Petitions
Filing a green card petition for a family member may enable your loved one to legally work and reside in the United States. Whether your relative is in or out of the country, I can assist you. I can answer your family immigration questions and determine whether your relative is eligible for adjustment of status within the United States. I will apply my knowledge to the process of obtaining a green card for your relative as efficiently and quickly as possible. I am committed to helping families reunite in the U.S.
Again, the process depends on whether your relative is already in the U.S. or remains abroad. Adjustment of status is the method for those in the U.S., while those abroad will go through consular processing. From there, the process also depends on whether you are a citizen or a permanent resident.
Green Card Parent And Unmarried Child Under The Age Of 21 Processing Inside The United States – Adjustment Of Status
Certain relatives of U.S. citizens, including spouses, parents and unmarried children under the age of 21, may be eligible to apply for a green card while inside the United States. A petition establishing your family relationship must be submitted, along with an application for adjustment of status establishing that your relative meets various eligibility requirements. I will be there for you throughout the entire process, especially helping you prepare for the adjustment of status interview with the immigration officer.
Green Card Parent, Child And Sibling Processing Outside The United States – Consular Processing
In the event that your spouse, parent, child or sibling lives outside the United States, I will work toward helping you petition for your relative to obtain U.S. permanent residence. I will guide you through each step of the process, including filing the visa application and documentation with the National Visa Center and preparing your spouse or relative for their interview at the appropriate U.S. consulate or embassy.
Green Card For Relatives
If you are a U.S. citizen, you can petition for the following relatives to immigrate to the United States:
- Husband or wife
- Son or daughter
- Brother or sister, if you are at least 21 years old
- Parent, if you are at least 21 years old
A lawful permanent resident may petition for a husband or wife, or unmarried son or daughter of any age.
The relative you wish to immigrate must obtain an immigrant visa number based upon the preference category in which they fall. People desiring to be immigrants are classified into categories based on a preference system. The immediate relatives of U.S. citizens, including spouses, parents and unmarried children under the age of 21, do not have to wait for an immigrant visa number to become available once there is approval of the visa petition.
Other relatives must wait for an immigrant visa number to become available according to the following preferences:
- First preference: Unmarried children 21 years of age or older of U.S. citizens
- Second preference: Spouses and unmarried children of permanent residents
- Third preference: Married children of U.S. citizens
- Fourth preference: Sisters and brothers of adult U.S. citizens
I can handle such matters for you in a timely and cost-effective manner. If there is another way to bring your relative to live and work in the U.S., I will inform you of your options and advise you on the most expedient method.
Get Started With Your Family-Based Petition Today
Do not let the complexities of immigration law deter you from reuniting with your loved ones. Contact my office today online or at 412-223-7924 to arrange your free consultation. As your immigration attorney, I am ready to assist with your family-based petition and help secure the green cards your family members need to start their new lives in the United States.