Need a Green Card for a Family Member? Here’s Where to Start

The complex world of immigration laws can be daunting, especially when you’re trying to secure a green card for a family member. Whether you want your spouse, child, or parent to join you in the United States permanently, the process can be both challenging and time-consuming. 

Fortunately, you don’t have to face it alone. Welcome to Espinoza Law Offices, P.A., your trusted immigration law firm based in Lakeland. Our experienced immigration attorneys are dedicated to providing you with the guidance and support you need to bring your family together. In this blog, we will outline the essential steps and information to help you start the process of obtaining a green card for your loved one.

Understanding Family-Based Immigration

Family-based immigration is a pathway for U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents (LPRs) to sponsor their eligible family members for a green card. This process allows families to reunite and build a life together in the United States. The relationships eligible for sponsorship include spouses, unmarried children under 21, unmarried sons and daughters over 21, married sons and daughters, and parents of U.S. citizens who are 21 years or older.

Here’s a step-by-step process to obtain a Green Card for a family member:

  • Determine Eligibility: Ascertain your relationship with the family member you wish to sponsor (spouse, child, parent, etc.). Ensure you are a U.S. citizen or a lawful permanent resident (LPR) to be eligible to sponsor a family member.
  • Consultation and Assessment: Schedule a consultation with one of our lawyers to assess your family member’s eligibility and discuss your case. Gather all relevant documents and information to present during the consultation.
  • File the Appropriate Petition: Depending on your relationship with the family member, file forms for immediate relatives or forms for other family members. Ensure accurate and timely filing to prevent processing delays or potential denials.
  • Gather Supporting Documents: Compile all necessary supporting documents, such as birth certificates, marriage certificates, and proof of U.S. citizenship or LPR status.
  • File Affidavit of Support: As a sponsor, you need to submit an Affidavit of Support to demonstrate your ability to financially support your family member.

Our attorneys will help you complete this form accurately.

  • Wait for USCIS Response: After filing the petition and supporting documents, wait for the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to review your case.
  • Attend an Interview (if required): Depending on the family member’s eligibility category and other factors, an interview may be scheduled.
  • Await USCIS Decision: After the interview, await the USCIS decision on the green card application.
  • Adjustment of Status or Consular Processing: If your family member is in the U.S., they may apply for an adjustment of status to become a lawful permanent resident. If they are outside the U.S., they will go through consular processing to obtain the green card.

Choosing the Right Immigration Lawyer

Selecting the right immigration lawyer is crucial for a smooth and successful process. At Espinoza Law Offices, P.A., our immigration attorneys in Lakeland, FL, and Tampa Bay, FL, have a proven track record of assisting families with their immigration needs. Our lawyers have in-depth knowledge and experience in family immigration, ensuring that your case is handled with expertise and care.

Before initiating the green card application, our lawyers will thoroughly assess your family member’s eligibility for the specific category of family-based immigration. Once eligibility is confirmed, we will assist you in filing the appropriate petition. Timely and accurate petition filing is critical to avoid processing delays or potential denials.

Don’t let the complexities of immigration laws stand in the way of uniting with your loved ones. Reach out to Espinoza Law Offices today to start the process of securing a green card for your family member.  Remember, family is the heart of any community, and we are committed to keeping families together. Let us take the burden off your shoulders, navigate the legal complexities, and work towards a brighter and united future for you and your loved ones.

Contact Espinoza Law Offices now for a personalized consultation, and take the first step towards building a secure and happy future together.