Our St. Petersburg, Tampa Bay, FL Attorneys Know All About Family-Based Visas
There are many paths for immigration to the United States. Family-based visas allow people with family in the United States to live and work in this country. At the Rios Immigration Law Firm, our Nationally renown family-based visas lawyers can guide you through the process. Since 1978, we have helped countless families secure visas for their loved ones.
Types Of Family-Based Visas
There are several options for family-based visas. The right type of visa depends on the applicant’s relationship with the U.S. citizen. It is important to apply for the type of visa best suited to your situation in order to get the results you need.
Types of family-based visas include:
- K1 fiancé visa – Allows a non-citizen to enter the U.S. to marry a citizen, but the couple must marry within 90 days
- K3 spouse visa – Allows a spouse to enter the country while awaiting approval of an I-130 immigrant petition
- Immediate relative visa – For spouses, unmarried children, or parents of a U.S. citizen
- Family preference visa – Allows family of U.S. citizens or a spouse/unmarried child of a green card holder to enter the country
The family preference visa prioritizes specific family members. Because there are limits on these visas, however, the process can take years. The amount of time depends on the relationship of the applicant to the U.S. citizen. The first preference is unmarried children of a citizen who are under the age of 21. Spouses and children of permanent residents have second preference, followed by the married children of U.S. citizens and siblings.
Understanding The Application Process
The first step in the application process is to determine your eligibility and select the right type of visa. Applying for the wrong type of visa can result in delays or denial. Our St. Petersburg, Tampa Bay, FL family-based visa attorneys can help you determine the best type for your unique situation.
Because family visas require relatives to file the petition, the next step is to coordinate with your family in the United States. You will need to submit forms to the Department of State and schedule an interview with the consulate in your country. The results of this interview will determine your eligibility for your potential visa.
At the interview, you will need to provide several documents, including your non-immigrant visa application, a valid passport, an affidavit of support from your family member, and a completed medical exam form. You may also need to provide criminal records and proof of your family relationship with a U.S. citizen.
Let Our Family Help Reunite Yours
Our goal at the Rios Immigration Law Firm is to help reunite families. We can assist you with every aspect of the process, from determining eligibility to gathering the required documentation and preparing for the interview. Since 1978, we have developed a track record of success and handled a wide variety of complex cases for our clients and their families.
Reach us by phone at 727-416-7943 or complete our online form to request a consultation about your family visa needs.