Immigrant Visas

One of the most common ways to obtain lawful permanent resident status (commonly known as a “green card”) is through a family relationship. U.S. citizens can file a request for lawful permanent resident status on behalf of their spouses, parents, children, or siblings. Lawful permanent residents can file a request for lawful permanent resident status on behalf of their spouses and unmarried children.

If the foreign national family member resides abroad then the correct procedure for them to immigrate to the United States is to receive an immigrant visa at a U.S. Embassy abroad. The process of applying for an immigrant visa is usually begun by filing the relevant paperwork with the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) inside the United States. Once USCIS approves the initial paperwork, they forward the application to the U.S. Department of State for additional review and processing. Eventually all documents get forwarded to the appropriate U.S. Embassy or Consulate where an in-person interview is conducted between a consular officer and the family member to verify everything one last time. Even after all of this is complete, the individual does not obtain lawful permanent resident status until they physically enter the United States using their approved immigrant visa.

If the foreign national family member is currently in the United States then it might be possible, depending on their individual case, to complete the process of gaining lawful permanent resident status within the United States. This process is known as adjustment of status and is started by filing the initial paperwork with USCIS. While the application is pending with USCIS, it is usually possible to request an interim work authorization card. This process will usually conclude with USCIS conducting an interview with the family members to verify the family relationship and make sure that the individual qualifies to receive lawful permanent resident status. Our normal practice at Alan Reiter, PLLC is to attend these interviews with our clients.

Regardless of whether the foreign national family member is in or outside the United States, the immigration process can be very complicated. If you would like to find out whether you can petition a family member to become a lawful permanent resident or would like to know more about our services please contact us.