Family reunification is a vital part of U.S. immigration policy. If you want to bring your loved ones to the United States, knowing about family-based visas can help.
Types of family-based visas
The U.S. immigration system offers two primary categories of family-based visas. Understanding the distinctions between these visa types is essential in determining the best choice for your family’s immigration journey.
Immediate Relative Immigrant Visas
As a U.S. citizen, you can sponsor close family members for green cards. This includes:
Spouses
Unmarried children under 21
Parents (if you’re 21 or older)
These visas offer a significant advantage – they’re unlimited in number and typically process faster than other categories.
Family Preference Immigrant Visas
These visas apply to more distant family relationships or relatives of permanent residents.
Unmarried adult children of U.S. citizens
Spouses and unmarried children of permanent residents
Married children of U.S. citizens
Siblings of adult U.S. citizens
These visas have yearly limits, so wait times may be longer.
Benefits of family visas
Family visas offer many advantages. They allow your loved ones to live and work in the U.S. permanently. This can lead to better education, jobs, health care and quality of life.
Family reunification also strengthens bonds and provides emotional support. It brings diverse viewpoints and cultures to communities.
Navigating the process
The visa application process may seem complex, but breaking it down into steps can make it more manageable.
Determine which visa type fits your situation
File the proper petition
Gather required documents
Prepare for possible interviews
Be patient, as processing times vary. Stay updated on your application and respond quickly to any requests.
While the journey may be daunting, reuniting with your family in the U.S. is worth it. By understanding the different types of family-based visas and their requirements, you’re taking a crucial first step toward realizing your family’s American dream.The post Understanding the different types of family visas first appeared on David Hirson & Partners, LLP.