AnaMaria Rivera Law Firm
Family petitions
At AnaMaria Rivera Law Firm, we understand the importance of family. We are here to help you reunite with your loved ones in the United States through the different categories of family petitions.
Family petitions allow U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents (LPR) to apply for permanent residency for certain family members. The main categories of family petitions include:
Petitions for Immediate Relatives to Family petitions
Family Preference Petitions
- First Preference (F1)
Unmarried children over 21 of U.S. citizens. - Second Preference (F2A)
Spouses and unmarried children under 21 of LPRs. - Second Preference (F2B)
Unmarried children over 21 of LPRs. - Third Preference (F3)
Married children of U.S. citizens. - Fourth Preference (F4)
Siblings of U.S. citizens (if the citizen is at least 21 years old).
Eligibility Criteria for Family petitions
U.S. Citizens
Can sponsor spouses, unmarried children under 21, parents, unmarried
children over 21, married children, and siblings.
Lawful Permanent Residents
Can sponsor spouses, unmarried children under 21, and unmarried children over 21.
Application
Process
- Petition Filing
File Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, along with supporting documentation to USCIS. - Petition Approval
Once approved, the petition is sent to the National Visa Center (NVC) for processing. - Fee Payment and Document Submission
The applicant pays the required fees and submits the requested documentation to the NVC. - Consular Interview or Adjustment of Status
If the beneficiary is outside the U.S., they will attend an interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate. If in the U.S., they can apply for adjustment of status.
Required Documentation to family Petitions
Completed Form I-130.
Proof of family relationship (marriage, birth certificates, etc.).
Proof of the petitioner’s citizenship or residency.
Financial support evidence (Form I-864, Affidavit of Support).
Recent photographs.
Any other relevant documentation for the case.
Completed Form I-130.
Proof of family relationship (marriage, birth certificates, etc.).
Proof of the petitioner’s citizenship or residency.
Financial support evidence (Form I-864, Affidavit of Support).
Recent photographs.
Any other relevant documentation for the case.
Family Reunification
Allows U.S. citizens and LPRs to reunite with their family members in the U.S.
Path to Permanent Residency
Beneficiaries can obtain permanent residency and eventually U.S. citizenship.
Emotional and Financial Support
Keeping families together provides emotional and financial support to family members.
Frequently Asked Questions about family petitions
Processing times can vary depending on the preference category and the beneficiary’s country of origin, but generally range from 6 months to several years.
No, you can only sponsor spouses, children, parents, and siblings (if you are a U.S. citizen).
You must inform USCIS and the NVC of any changes in your family situation, such as marriages, divorces, or births, as these can affect your case.
