Family-Based Immigration
Reunite your family in the United States with our immigration lawyers’ help
Family-Based Immigration Attorney In North Carolina
How Can I Bring My Family Members To The United States?
If you are a U.S. citizen or a lawful permanent resident (green card holder), you may be eligible to help your family members come to the United States and obtain lawful permanent residency. Through the family-based immigration process, your loved ones can apply for the appropriate visa to live, work, and build their future here with you.
At The Emory Law Firm, P.C., we understand how important it is to be reunited with family. Our immigration attorneys assist with every step of the process — from gathering the required documentation to completing and submitting all necessary forms accurately and on time.
We work closely with you and your loved ones to ensure that each detail is handled properly, minimizing delays and complications along the way. With The Emory Law Firm, P.C.. by your side, you can take meaningful steps toward bringing your family together in the United States.
Call The Emory Law Firm, P.C. at 704-371-4333 to schedule a consultation with a lawyer today.
Which Family Members Are Eligible to Apply for a Green Card?
There are two main categories of family members eligible for family-based immigration: immediate relatives and preference relatives.
Immediate relatives include the spouse, unmarried minor children, and parents of a U.S. citizen (if the U.S. citizen is at least 21 years old). These visas are not limited by annual caps, which means they are typically processed faster than other categories.
Preference relatives fall into a broader, tiered system that prioritizes certain relationships:
- Unmarried adult children of U.S. citizens
- Spouses and unmarried children of lawful permanent residents
- Married children of U.S. citizens
- Brothers and sisters of U.S. citizens (if the U.S. citizen is 21 or older)
Fiancés of U.S. citizens are also eligible for a special K-1 fiancé visa, which allows them to enter the United States on the condition that the marriage takes place within 90 days of arrival.
Because family-based immigration involves detailed paperwork, strict deadlines, and specific eligibility criteria, working with a knowledgeable legal team can help ensure the process goes smoothly. At The Emory Law Firm, P.C., we assist families in preparing complete, accurate applications to minimize delays and complications. Take the first step toward bringing your loved ones to the U.S. — contact The Emory Law Firm, P.C.
today to schedule your consultation.
How Long Will My Family Members Need to Wait?
One of the key differences between immediate relatives and preference relatives is how quickly they can obtain a visa. Immediate relatives of U.S. citizens — such as spouses, unmarried children under 21, and parents — can typically apply without waiting for a visa number to become available.
However, preference relatives are subject to annual visa limits set by the U.S. government. Because of these restrictions, there is often a waiting period before an immigrant visa becomes available. In some cases, especially for countries with high demand, that wait can extend for several years.
It’s important to begin the process as early as possible, since the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) processes family-based petitions based on the date they are filed. Starting now can make a meaningful difference in how soon your loved ones can come to the United States.
At The Emory Law Firm, P.C., we help families prepare accurate, timely applications to avoid delays and complications. Let us help you take the first step toward reuniting with your loved ones. Contact our office today to get started.
Need Help with an Immigration Matter?
Contact The Emory Law Firm, P.C. at 704-371-4333 to connect with a North Carolina immigration attorney who will help you
understand your rights and explore your options.
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