Are you looking to reunite with family members in the United States? Family based immigration visas provide an opportunity for US citizens and lawful permanent residents (green card holders) to sponsor their relatives for immigration. This process allows family members to live and work permanently in the US, enjoying all the benefits of residency. In this blog, we will explore the types of family-based immigration visas, their requirements, and how to apply.
Family Based Immigration Visas
An immigrant visa is necessary for a foreign national who wants to reside permanently in the US (IV). A foreign national who wishes to apply for an IV must be sponsored by an immediate relative who is a US citizen or lawful permanent resident (holder of a green card) and who is at least 21 years old.
The family based immigrant visa comes in two distinct forms
Immediate Relative: The basis for these visas is a close family member, such as a spouse, parent, or kid, who is a citizen of the United States.
Family Preference: These visas are intended for certain, farther-reaching family ties with U.S. citizens as well as certain designated relationships with Lawful Permanent Residents (LPRs).
Citizens of the US can sponsored family members for immigration visas, including siblings, parents, spouses, and children. On the other hand, Lawful Permanent Residents (LPRs) are limited in their sponsorship capabilities. They can only apply for immigrant visas for their spouses or unmarried children.
If you are a student and need to apply for student visa, visit How to Apply for Student Visa (F or M Visa): Everything you need to know
Family Based Immigration Visa Process
File Form I-130
Citizens and permanent residents of the United States who want to sponsor a family member for immigration must fill out Form I-130, known as the Petition for Alien Relative, and submit it to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). They can choose to do this either online or by sending the form through traditional mail. Additionally, they have the option to complete this process either electronically or through the traditional paper method via mail.
Wait for Approval
Once the I-130 is approved, it is forwarded to the National Visa Center (NVC) for processing.
Pay your Fees
After obtaining your NVC Welcome Letter, the first thing you need to do is pay your processing fees. These payments consist of two parts: the Affidavit of Support Fee and the Immigrant Visa Application Processing Fee. You will need a checking or savings account number from a U.S.-based bank in addition to a bank routing number to complete the transaction. These costs must be paid separately. After completing the online payment process, please allow NVC up to one week to process your payment before moving on to the next stage. Until NVC finishes processing fees, access to Form DS-260 will be prohibited.
Form I-864
A sponsor has to commit themselves to provide financial support for an immigrant until the person becomes a citizen of the United States or completes 40 eligible quarters of work by signing the Affidavit of Support, often known as Form I-864. A dual sponsor may fill out the petition if the petitioner’s income is not sufficient. By signing, the sponsor commits to provide for the beneficiary and any relying parties. Following the comprehensive instructions on the USCIS website, it is imperative that you choose the appropriate form (I-864, I-864EZ, I-864W, or I-864A) based on your unique situation.
Complete Family Based Immigration Visa Application
After receiving notification from the NVC, complete Form DS-260, Application for Immigrant Visa and Alien Registration.
Attend Interview
Schedule and attend an interview at the US Embassy or Consulate in your home country. All necessary original or certified copies of civil documents must be brought to the visa interview by the applicant. Visa refusal or delay could result from not bringing the necessary documents to the interview.Bring the following items to the interview: the appointment letter, passport, photos, DS-260 Confirmation Page, original or certified copies of any civil documents, English translations, and visa fees.
Receive Family Based Immigration Visa
If approved, receive your family based immigration visa and prepare for travel to the United States.
If you are seeking information regarding work visas, visit How to Apply for US Work Visas: What You Need to Know
Conclusion
Family-based immigration visas offer a pathway for families to reunite and live together in the United States. Whether you are sponsoring a spouse, child, parent, or sibling, understanding the process and meeting the requirements is crucial. For more detailed information on how to apply for a family-based immigration visa, visit US Passport Help Guide. By following these steps and ensuring all necessary documents are prepared, you can successfully navigate the family based immigration process and begin your new chapter in the United States.
