Family-Based Immigration
Reunite your family in the United States with our immigration lawyers’ help
Family-Based Immigration Attorney In Durham, North Carolina
How Can I Bring My Family Members To The United States?
If you are a United States citizen or a lawful permanent resident, you may be eligible to petition for specific family members to join you in the United States. Family-based immigrant visas provide a crucial pathway that allows qualifying relatives to apply for lawful permanent residence, enabling them to build their lives alongside you in this great nation. This process can be deeply meaningful, as it not only paves the way for family reunification but also entails adhering to intricate requirements and submitting thorough documentation.
Karina Herhusky focuses on assisting individuals and families in Durham, North Carolina, as well as throughout the wider United States, in effectively navigating the complexities of family-based immigration petitions. She offers invaluable support by helping clients prepare their applications, gather necessary supporting documents, and meticulously complete each required step in the immigration process. By collaborating closely with you, Herhusky Law Office, PLLC streamlines the journey, making it more manageable, and brings you one step closer to a joyful reunion with your loved ones in the United States, where you can all share in the experiences of life together.
Call Herhusky Law Office, PLLC at 919-900-6610 to schedule a consultation with a lawyer today.
Which Family Members Are Eligible to Apply for a Green Card?
U.S. immigration law recognizes two main categories of family members who may be eligible for family-based immigration: immediate relatives of U.S. citizens and a broader group known as preference relatives. Immediate relatives include a U.S. citizen’s spouse, unmarried children under the age of 21, and parents, provided the U.S. citizen is at least 21 years old. These cases are not subject to annual visa limits, which can allow for a more direct path to permanent residence.
Preference relatives fall into four categories and are subject to additional requirements and visa availability. These categories include U.S. citizens’ unmarried adult children, lawful permanent residents’ spouses and unmarried children, U.S. citizens’ married children, and U.S. citizens’ siblings, as long as the U.S. citizen petitioner is at least 21 years old. Because preference categories are limited by annual caps, wait times can vary significantly depending on the relationship and country of origin.
Fiancés of U.S. citizens may qualify for a separate visa option, commonly known as the fiancé visa, which allows them to enter the United States for the purpose of marriage within 90 days of arrival. While this process is distinct from family-based immigrant visas, it offers a similar path toward lawful permanent residence after marriage.
Karina Herhusky works directly with clients in Durham, North Carolina, and throughout the United States to help ensure family-based petitions are prepared carefully and filed correctly. Having clear guidance throughout the process can help avoid delays and complications. To learn more about your options or to get started,
schedule a consultation today.
How Long Will My Family Members Need to Wait?
Immediate relatives of U.S. citizens are generally not subject to annual visa limits, which means they may be able to move forward with the immigration process without extended waiting periods. Preference relatives, however, are subject to yearly limits on immigrant visas, as well as country-specific caps. As a result, wait times for these categories can be significant.
Because U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services processes preference-based petitions according to the date they are filed, submitting a petition as early as possible is especially important. In countries with high demand for U.S. immigrant visas, the waiting period can last several years before a visa becomes available.
Karina Herhusky works directly with clients in Durham, North Carolina, and throughout the United States to help initiate family-based immigration petitions and navigate the timing considerations involved. By starting the process promptly and preparing filings carefully, clients can position themselves more effectively for the path ahead. To discuss your options, contact Herhusky Law Office, PLLC today to schedule a consultation.
Need Guidance On An Immigration Issue?
Call Herhusky Law Office, PLLC at 919-900-6610 today to speak with an attorney who is committed to protecting your rights and guiding you through the process. Hablamos Español.