Are you considering sponsoring a family member to the United States and seeking for an “immigration attorney near me”? If so, you’re about to embark on an important and rewarding journey. Everyone wishes that immigration to the US was straightforward, but unfortunately, it’s not. You’ll need to prepare carefully to ensure that your family member can enter and stay in the US legally. This blog will discuss the 4 steps you should take to sponsor a family member to the US.
Who Is Eligible?
First, we should address who is eligible to be a sponsor. To qualify for immigration sponsorship, you must meet certain criteria:
- Be a US citizen or legal permanent resident
- Be at least 18 years of age
- You must meet certain income requirements
- Demonstrate the person you are trying to sponsor is related to you
What Are The Required Documents?
It would be best if you had prepared a series of documents for your immigration petition. These will vary depending on the type of immigration request you’re making but typically include the following:
- A birth certificate that is valid for at least six months after you plan to enter the United States
- A passport that is also valid for at least six months after your planned date of entry into the United States.
- If applicable, bring along your marriage certificate as well.
- An affidavit of support and medical examination form
- Two passport photos
The Immigration Process: The 4 Steps
Once you’ve determined your immigration request is eligible with an “immigration attorney near me” and have gathered the necessary documents, it’s time to move on to the immigration process. Here are the four steps to take:
1. File a Petition
You must submit Form I-130 (an immigration petition) to apply for immigration sponsorship. This form should be completed and signed by both the sponsor and the petitioner with the help of an immigration attorney.
2. Wait For USCIS Decision
After you’ve filed your immigration petition, you must wait for the USCIS to review it before making a decision.
3. Wait For Availability
After the immigration petition is approved, you will need to wait until an immigrant visa becomes available. It can take months to years, depending on the country of origin and type of immigration request you’ve made with an immigration lawyer.
4. Application/Status Adjustment
When a visa becomes available, the petitioner can apply for immigration status or adjust their existing immigration status.
Ensure The Proper Steps Are Met With A Professional Team Of Immigration Attorneys
Going through the immigration process can be a daunting task, but with the help of an immigration lawyer, it doesn’t have to be. Given that immigration law is complex and ever-changing, it’s important to seek professional legal advice from an immigration attorney who understands the process inside and out.
At Presti Law Firm, we are experienced immigration lawyers in Dallas, TX, ready to guide you through the immigration process so you can ensure that all the proper steps are met and your immigration petition is approved. Contact us today to get started!