Ray Law International Ray Law International
Ray Law International

Family-Based Immigration

Chicago Family Immigration Services 

Guiding Families Through Immigration in Cook County

Ray Law International is pleased to offer family immigration services. With over 20 years of experience in the field, our Chicago family immigration lawyers have been honored to represent families throughout the immigration process and witness incredible success stories.

While it may seem that retaining the services of a Chicago family immigration lawyer can be expensive and unnecessary, it is incredibly important to consider the benefit that a trustworthy attorney can provide. When your and your loved ones’ futures are on the line, you can never use too much precaution. Ray Law International has a proven track record of success and is dedicated to our client’s interests and well-being. 

Are you looking for a Chicago family immigration lawyer? Call Ray Law International today at (888) 474-8048 or contact us online to get started! 

Our Chicago Immigration Services 

We offer a full range of immigration services and are happy to be able to provide legal counsel and representation for any family-based immigration matter. Our team focuses on delivering knowledgeable and thoughtful guidance throughout every step of the immigration process, and we are regarded for our compassionate practices. 

We regularly help immigrants and their families obtain the following visas:

Immigration law, processes, and systems are in constant flux. It is always easy for mistakes to happen in the application process, even more so when the applicant is not updated on these regulations and procedures.

Any oversight in the application process can result in loss of time, money, and even the loss of the possibility of being approved. This is especially important to keep in mind, as there are only a limited number of visas available for some family-based immigration applicants each year due to the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA).

Explore Family-Based Immigration Visa Options

Family-based immigration visas allow U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents to sponsor certain family members for immigration to the United States. These visas facilitate the reunification of families by allowing qualifying relatives to obtain lawful permanent resident status (Green Card).

1. Spouse Visas (CR-1, IR-1)

  • CR-1 Visa: Conditional Resident Spouse Visa for spouses married for less than two years.
  • IR-1 Visa: Immediate Relative Spouse Visa for spouses married for more than two years.

2. Fiancé(e) Visas (K-1)

  • K-1 Visa: Fiancé(e) of U.S. citizens intending to marry within 90 days of arrival.

3. Parent and Child Visas (IR-2, IR-5)

  • IR-2 Visa: Immediate Relative Child Visa for unmarried children under 21 years of age.
  • IR-5 Visa: Immediate Relative Parent Visa for parents of U.S. citizens.

4. Sibling Visas (F4)

  • F4 Visa: Sibling of U.S. citizens, subject to annual numerical limits

The Family Immigration Process

The family immigration process can be complex, involving several stages. Here's an overview of what you can expect:

  1. Determine Eligibility: Our attorneys will assess whether you meet the requirements to sponsor a relative and whether your relative is eligible to immigrate.
  2. File a Petition: The process begins with the filing of a Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative) by the U.S. citizen or permanent resident sponsor.
  3. Wait for Approval: Once the petition is approved, your family member will either begin the adjustment of status process if in the U.S., or undergo consular processing if abroad.
  4. Complete the Visa Process: If applying from abroad, your relative will attend an interview at the U.S. consulate, undergo a medical exam, and provide supporting documentation. If applying from within the U.S., your relative will attend an adjustment of status interview with USCIS.
  5. Receive Green Card or Visa: After approval, your family member will either receive their green card or a visa that allows them to travel to the U.S.

Our Chicago family immigration attorneys are here to guide you through each step of the process, ensuring all forms are filed correctly, deadlines are met, and the necessary documentation is submitted.

Common Family Immigration Challenges

While family-based immigration offers many opportunities, the process can also present significant challenges, including:

  • Long waiting periods for family preference visas.
  • Issues with visa overstays or previous immigration violations.
  • Complicated consular processing and interview issues.
  • Ineligibility due to criminal convictions or inadmissibility grounds.
  • Delays in processing due to administrative backlogs.

At Ray Law International, we have the experience to navigate these challenges and offer solutions that best fit your family’s needs.

 

Adjustment of Status (Green Card Applications)

If your family member is already in the United States on a temporary visa, they may be eligible to apply for a green card through the adjustment of status process. This allows individuals to change their immigration status from a non-immigrant (temporary) visa holder to a lawful permanent resident (green card holder) without needing to leave the U.S. The process begins with filing Form I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status), which will be evaluated by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Applicants will need to provide various documents such as proof of relationship, employment, and financial support, as well as undergo a medical examination. Once the application is reviewed and approved, the applicant will receive their green card and become a permanent resident of the U.S. The adjustment of status process can be quicker and more convenient for those already in the U.S. compared to consular processing, as it avoids the need for travel abroad, although it still requires meeting eligibility criteria and clearing any potential immigration issues.

Consular Processing

If your family member is currently residing outside of the United States, they will typically need to go through consular processing to obtain a family-based immigrant visa. Consular processing requires the family member to apply for an immigrant visa at a U.S. consulate or embassy in their home country or country of residence. The first step involves the U.S. citizen or permanent resident sponsor filing Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative), which, once approved, will initiate the visa application process at the consulate. Your relative will need to gather required documents, such as birth certificates, police clearances, and medical records, and attend an in-person interview with a consular officer. If everything is in order and the visa is approved, the applicant will receive their immigrant visa and be allowed to travel to the United States, where they can be admitted as a lawful permanent resident upon entry. Although consular processing often takes longer than adjustment of status, it remains the primary route for family members living abroad to join their relatives in the U.S.

 
 
 
 
 

Reach Out to Our Chicago Family Immigration Lawyers

At Ray Law International, we understand the importance of family and the desire to be together. Our team of dedicated immigration lawyers is committed to helping families navigate the complex U.S. immigration system and reunite with their loved ones in Chicago and beyond.

Why Choose Ray Law International for Your Immigration Needs?

  • Experience: Our Chicago immigration attorneys have extensive experience in family immigration law and stay updated on the latest developments and changes in immigration policies.
  • Personalized Attention: We understand that every family's situation is unique. That's why we provide personalized attention and tailored solutions to meet each client's specific needs and circumstances.
  • Client-Centered Approach: At Ray Law International, we prioritize client satisfaction and strive to provide exceptional service at every step of the process. We're committed to keeping our clients informed, empowered, and supported throughout their immigration journey.
  • Dedicated Advocacy: Our team of Chicago immigration lawyers are dedicated to advocating for our clients' rights and interests. Whether you're facing challenges or seeking guidance, we're here to provide compassionate support and effective legal representation.

Are you looking for a family immigration lawyer near you? Call Ray Law International today at (888) 474-8048 or contact us online to get started!

What is Family-Based Immigration?

Family-based immigration is a process by which a family member with either U.S. citizenship or legal permanent residence status who is 21 years or older (the petitioner) files an immigrant visa petition for their family member (the beneficiary).

The types of family relationships that qualify for family-based immigration petitions are different for U.S. citizens and legal residents (green card holders), as green card holders have a smaller and more specific set of relatives for whom they are permitted to file petitions.

What are the Two Categories of Family-Based Immigration?

There are two categories of family-based immigration visas:

  • Immediate relative: You may petition for this type of visa if you are a U.S. citizen. Beneficiaries of this visa have a very close family relationship with a U.S. citizen, and the number of these visas available is not limited each year. Eligible beneficiaries of immediate relative visas may be spouses, parents, or unmarried children (under 21) of U.S. citizens.
  • Family preference: These visas may be available to relatives of U.S. citizens with a more distant family relationship, or they may be available to some specific family members of legal residents. This usually applies to siblings of U.S. citizens and unmarried children (over the age of 21) of U.S. citizens. Family preference visas are limited in number each fiscal year.

Depending on the circumstances of the specific case at hand, the beneficiary of a family-based immigration visa may be able to claim their spouse and/or dependent children as derivative beneficiaries.

Common Family Immigration Challenges

While family-based immigration offers many opportunities, the process can also present significant challenges, including:

  • Long waiting periods for family preference visas.
  • Issues with visa overstays or previous immigration violations.
  • Complicated consular processing and interview issues.
  • Ineligibility due to criminal convictions or inadmissibility grounds.
  • Delays in processing due to administrative backlogs.

At Ray Law International, we have the experience to navigate these challenges and offer solutions that best fit your family’s needs.

In family-based immigration visa cases, there are limitations to the types of relatives eligible to be beneficiaries. This means that eligibility for the direct petition is not available to aunts and uncles, nieces and nephews, grandparents and grandchildren, etc.

U.S. Family Immigration FAQs

How can an immigration lawyer assist with family-based immigration?

Immigration lawyers assist clients in preparing and filing visa petitions, navigating the complex immigration system, ensuring compliance with all requirements, and advocating for their clients' rights and interests throughout the process.

What documents are required for a family-based immigration petition?

Documents required for a family-based immigration petition may include proof of the family relationship (such as marriage certificates, birth certificates, or adoption papers), financial evidence to demonstrate the petitioner's ability to support the immigrant, and various forms and supporting documents required by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

How long does the family immigration process typically take?

The timeline for family immigration varies depending on factors such as the type of visa, the backlog of applications, and the petitioner's and beneficiary's circumstances. Generally, the process can take several months to several years.

Can I bring my spouse and children to the U.S. if I am a lawful permanent resident?

Lawful permanent residents (green card holders) can sponsor their spouses and unmarried children under certain visa categories, but the process may take longer compared to sponsorship by U.S. citizens.

What should I do if my family-based immigration petition is denied?

If your family-based immigration petition is denied, you may have the option to appeal the decision or file a motion to reopen or reconsider the case. Consulting with an experienced immigration lawyer can help you explore your legal options and determine the best course of action

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How Do I Choose the Best Chicago Family Immigration Attorney for Me?

Family immigration can be a very complicated and emotionally fraught process. With immigration processes focusing on volatile lawmaking and public opinion, it is essential to have an attorney you can trust.

When seeking a family immigration lawyer, consider the following aspects in your search:

  • Thoughtfulness: When you speak with an attorney, it is important that you feel heard and that your questions and concerns are understood and responded to. Seek an attorney who you feel comfortable with and believe will be able to guide you through your situation with care.
  • Expertise: Having a confident and skilled attorney is the most valuable resource when navigating an immigration law matter. Look for an established law firm with excellent testimonials and years of experience in the field.
  • Finances: It is important to consider your financial situation and find an attorney who will meet your needs fiscally. Working with an attorney will usually save you a considerable amount of time, money, and stress in the long run. Finding an attorney who works with your financial situation is the first step to that end.

Contact Our Chicago Family Immigration Attorney Today 

If you are searching for the best law firm for immigration law, please consider Ray Law International. With over 20 years of experience, we believe we are uniquely qualified and positioned to meet the needs of a wide range of clients. We are ready to speak with you about your immigration matter.

Contact Ray Law International by calling (888) 474-8048 today to schedule a consultation with our Chicago family immigration lawyer!

  • “Anthony L. Ray is excellent at fully understanding any immigration situation quickly and providing a clear plan for the best outcome” - A Satisfied Client
  • “I felt completely lost until I talked to Anthony” - Alexandra
  • “We felt that they were extremely knowledgeable and that their fees for representation were fair and reasonable.” - W. K.
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    The attorneys at Ray Law International are committed to providing clients in the United States and abroad with effective, innovative immigration solutions. We find fulfillment in advocating for our clients by helping them understand the immigration process and reach their goals. We offer services in English, Spanish, and Japanese.

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