Reuniting families is one of the core missions of U.S. immigration law. Through family-based green card options, U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents can bring their loved ones to live and work in the United States permanently. However, the process can be overwhelming without professional help.

At Chavarria Law Firm, we provide reliable, personalized guidance for family-based green card applications. Whether you’re petitioning for a spouse, parent, child, or sibling, our trusted legal team is here to simplify the process and bring your family together.

What Is a Family-Based Green Card?

A family-based green card allows a foreign national to become a lawful permanent resident of the United States based on their relationship with a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident (green card holder). Once approved, the recipient can live, work, and study in the U.S. indefinitely and even pursue citizenship later.

Who Can Apply?

There are two primary categories under family-based immigration:

1. Immediate Relatives of U.S. Citizens

These relationships have no annual limit on green cards:

• Spouse of a U.S. citizen
• Unmarried children under 21
• Parents (if the petitioner is over 21)

2. Family Preference Categories

These are subject to yearly quotas and include:

• F1: Unmarried sons and daughters (21+) of U.S. citizens
• F2A: Spouses and minor children of permanent residents
• F2B: Unmarried adult children of permanent residents
• F3: Married children of U.S. citizens
• F4: Siblings of U.S. citizens (21+)

At Chavarria Law Firm, we help you identify your eligibility and handle all aspects of your green card petition.

Step-by-Step: How to Apply for a Family-Based Green Card

Step 1: File the Petition (Form I-130)

The U.S. citizen or permanent resident (the “petitioner”) must first file Form I-130 with USCIS to establish the qualifying family relationship.

Step 2: Wait for Priority Date (If Applicable)

In preference categories, applicants must wait for their priority date to become current based on the Visa Bulletin.

Step 3: Adjustment of Status or Consular Processing

• If the beneficiary is in the U.S., they can file Form I-485 to adjust status.
• If abroad, they’ll go through consular processing and attend an interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate.

Step 4: Biometrics and Interview

The applicant must attend a biometrics appointment and, in most cases, an immigration interview to verify eligibility.

Step 5: Receive Your Green Card

Once approved, the applicant will receive their green card and become a lawful permanent resident.

Why Choose Chavarria Law Firm?

When it comes to securing a family-based green card, experience matters. Here’s how Chavarria Law Firm stands out:

✅ Family-Focused Approach: We know how important reunification is and handle every case with compassion and care.
✅ Experienced Legal Team: Our immigration attorneys are well-versed in complex family-based petitions.
✅ Clear Communication: We guide you every step of the way, so you never feel lost or confused.
✅ Problem-Solving Mindset: From delays to inadmissibility waivers, we tackle issues head-on.

Common Issues We Help Resolve

Even straightforward cases can hit roadblocks. That’s where we come in. We assist with:

• Missing documentation
• Proof of bona fide marriages
• Waivers for unlawful presence or criminal history
• Interview preparation and attendance (where permitted)
• Appeals and reapplications

No matter the challenge, Chavarria Law Firm delivers green card solutions you can trust.

Real-Life Example: A Success Story

Case Study: A client came to us after being separated from his wife for over a year due to delays and document issues. We reviewed his file, identified key errors in the I-130 and consular paperwork, and swiftly corrected them. Within four months, his wife received her immigrant visa and joined him in the U.S.

Your success story could be next.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How long does a family-based green card take?

It depends on the relationship and category. Immediate relatives often receive green cards faster, while preference categories can take several years.

2. Can I apply for a green card while visiting the U.S.?

In some cases, yes—especially for immediate relatives. However, timing and intent are important, and legal advice is recommended.

3. What if USCIS denies my family-based green card application?

You may appeal the decision, file a motion to reopen, or reapply. Chavarria Law Firm will evaluate your options and recommend the best course of action.

Let Us Help You Reunite With Your Loved Ones

At Chavarria Law Firm, we deeply believe that families should never be separated by borders or bureaucracy. We understand the emotional, financial, and logistical stress that immigration processes can place on loved ones, which is why we are dedicated to making family reunification as smooth and stress-free as possible. Whether you’re sponsoring your spouse, child, parent, or sibling, our experienced legal team is here to provide you with trustworthy, efficient, and compassionate guidance every step of the way. From preparing and filing accurate petitions to navigating interviews, waivers, and unexpected challenges, we work tirelessly to ensure that your family is brought together quickly and lawfully. With personalized attention and a deep understanding of family-based immigration laws, Chavarria Law Firm stands by your side throughout the entire green card process—because to us, your family is our priority. Our homepage is your go-to spot for fresh, reliable content.