Family-Based Immigration Lawyer in Irvine

Helping Immigrant Families Realize Their American Dream

Securing legal residency in the U.S. through a family relationship can be confusing. It can be difficult for families to know what immigration options are out there and which ones are right for them. When you work with our Orange County immigration attorneys at Yekrangi & Associates, we can provide you with simple explanations of immigration laws, your available options, and your chances of success. Our goal in every case is to assist you with the beginning-to-end process; from filing the initial petition to getting your family member to the U.S. through the immigrant visa consular process. 

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What Is Family-Based Immigration?

Family-based immigration is a pathway that allows U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents (LPRs) to bring certain family members to the United States with the goal of reuniting families and enabling them to live together in the U.S. This legal process is grounded in the principle that family unity is an essential part of American society and immigration policy.

With a wealth of experience as family-based immigration attorneys in Orange County, our expertise lies in expertly guiding clients through this intricate legal landscape. Typically, the procedure begins when a U.S. sponsor submits a petition for their foreign relative. This process is divided into two main categories: immediate relatives of U.S. citizens, encompassing spouses, parents (provided the petitioner is 21 or older), and unmarried children under the age of 21, and the family preference system, designated for more distant family members, subject to yearly quotas. Our role is to ensure a smooth pathway through these legal processes, starting from petition filing to navigating the specific category requirements.

Who Can Apply for a Family-Based Visa?

To apply as an immediate relative of a U.S. citizen, you must be one of the following:

• Spouse is a U.S. citizen
• An unmarried child of a U.S. citizen, and under 21 years of age
• A parent of a U.S. citizen who is at least 21 years of age

Learn more about who qualifies for a Family-Based Visa here

To apply as a non-immediate relative of a U.S. citizen, or as a relative of a LPR (lawful permanent resident) under the “family-based preference categories,” you must be one of the following:

• 21 years of age or older, unmarried, and have a U.S. citizen parent
• 21 years of age or older, married, and have a U.S. citizen parent
• 21 years of age or older, and have a U.S. citizen sibling

You can also apply as:

• The fiancé of a U.S. citizen (K-1 nonimmigrant)
• The child of a fiancé of a U.S. citizen (K-2 nonimmigrant)
• Widow(er) of a U.S. citizen who passed away after you were married

The United States Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) also recognizes adopted/step children, albeit with some restrictions. A widow or widower of a U.S. citizen can also obtain permanent resident status in the United States.

Simplify Your Family Visa Journey with Our Orange County Lawyers

Navigating the intricacies of securing a family-based visa can often seem daunting. With the help of our skilled family-based immigration lawyers in Orange County, every stage of the application will be made clearer - from assembling all required documents to crafting a robust application package. We are here to clarify the criteria for eligibility, inform you of important submission deadlines, and prepare you for any potential hurdles you might encounter along the way.

Crucial elements of the visa application process encompass:

• Assessing the qualifications of both the petitioner and the beneficiary
• Filling out and filing the necessary paperwork along with corroborative documents
• Guiding through the interview phase at a U.S. consulate or embassy
• Understanding the consequences of visa rejections and the procedures for appeal

Engaging with our family-based immigration attorney in Orange County ensures that your application is managed by proficient hands. Reach out to us now to arrange a consultation and begin the journey of bringing your family together.

How to Appeal a Denied Family-Based Visa Application

If your application for a family-based visa has been denied, you have 30 days to appeal; if it’s been revoked, you have 15 days to appeal. If an appeal before the Administrative Appeals Office or the Board of Immigration Appeals is unsuccessful, you have another 30 days to appeal that decision.

Do Lawful Permanent Residents Have "Immediate Relatives"?

A lawful permanent resident, also known as a green card holder, does not have any immediate relatives until he or she becomes a United States citizen through naturalization.

What Are the Benefits of Being an "Immediate Relative"?

USCIS, per the laws and regulations of the Immigration and Nationality Act, treat immediate relatives very differently than other relatives. For example, the spouse of a US citizen who entered the United States with inspection but is out of status, is eligible for adjustment of status. A parent of a US citizen who is at least 21 years or older will have their unauthorized work forgiven. In addition, immediate relatives have a visa immediately available, which means there are no long delays to getting a green card.

How Our Orange County Family-Based Immigration Attorneys Can Help

Our role as family-based immigration attorneys in Irvine who serve Orange County involves evaluating your case, determining eligibility, assisting in gathering the necessary documentation, and guiding you through the application process. We ensure that both sponsors and beneficiaries understand their rights and responsibilities, prepare for interviews, and address any challenges that may arise, such as delays or denials.

Guiding clients through the complexities of family-based immigration demands seasoned legal expertise for optimal outcomes. Our dedicated team is focused on assisting families in their pursuit of reunification within the United States, simplifying intricate legal processes and mitigating any sense of overwhelming challenge.

Consult Our OC Family-Based Immigration Attorney Today

Fully understanding the process and careful preparation is required during the family-based immigration process. If you need help, contact our immigration attorneys at Yekrangi & Associates, who can guide you or your loved one through each step of the way. We represent family immigration clients in Orange County, including Anaheim, Irvine, Mission Viejo, and other areas of Southern California.

Related Reading

• How Do I Get My Family Member Out Of Immigration Detention?
• Family Immigration: How You Can Reunite With Your Family in 2022
• What If My Child “Ages Out” Before Their Adjustment of Status or Immigration Visa Are Decided?

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