Family Based Immigration

What is Family Based Immigration?

Family-based immigration is a term for the different processes in place that allow people to come to the United States through family sponsorship.

This can include marriage-based options, such as a fiancé visa or being sponsored by a close family member who is either a U.S. citizen or a Green Card holder.

Family immigration can be done through an immediate relative visa, which requires that the sponsoring family member be a spouse, parent, or child and a U.S. citizen. The other option is a family preference visa, which is applicable to more distant family members and can be sponsored by a lawful permanent resident.

Only a certain number of family preference visas are given out each year, so it’s important to work with an attorney to find out if you’re eligible and get the process started as soon as possible to avoid having to wait until the next period.

Who Is Eligible for Family Immigration?

To be eligible for family immigration, you must meet the requirements for the type of visa you are pursuing. This includes being able to prove that you are a qualifying family member of the sponsor, usually through birth or marriage records.

You must also go through a background check and can be found inadmissible if you have a criminal history, especially for violent or major crimes. You will also need to submit to a medical examination to show that you don’t have any communicable diseases and be able to show that you have some means of financial support.

This usually comes in the form of an affidavit from the sponsor stating that they will be supporting you at least until you are able to get work authorization and employment on your own.