Sponsoring a family member for lawful permanent residency in the United States—commonly known as applying for a green card—is one of the most meaningful ways to reunite loved ones and create lasting opportunities. However, the process is complex and often time-consuming, involving multiple steps, forms, and strict eligibility requirements.
At Peek Law Group, our Texas immigration attorneys are here to help you confidently navigate this process. Below, we outline each key step in the family-based green card sponsorship process.
Step 1: Determine Eligibility Based on Family Relationship
Before starting the sponsorship process, it’s essential to confirm that your family relationship qualifies under U.S. immigration law. Eligible relationships fall into two main categories.
Immediate relatives of U.S. citizens, including:
- Spouses.
- Unmarried children under 21.
- Parents of U.S. citizens (if the petitioner is 21 or older).
Family preference categories, which include:
- Unmarried adult children of U.S. citizens (over 21).
- Spouses and children of green card holders.
- Married children of U.S. citizens.
- Siblings of U.S. citizens (if the petitioner is 21 or older).
Understanding your category is critical because it affects how long the process will take, due to annual visa limits for preference categories.
Step 2: File Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative
The first official step in sponsoring a family member is filing Form I-130 with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This petition proves that a valid family relationship exists between the petitioner (U.S. citizen or green card holder) and the beneficiary (the family member seeking a green card).
Along with the form, you must include:
- Proof of your citizenship or permanent residency.
- Proof of the family relationship, such as a birth or marriage certificate.
- Filing fee and supporting documents.
Once filed, USCIS will send a receipt notice and later, either an approval or a request for additional evidence. Processing times can vary depending on the service center and category.
Step 3: Wait for a Visa Number (If Required)
For most family preference categories, an approved I-130 does not immediately lead to a green card—beneficiaries must wait for a visa number to become available under the Department of State’s Visa Bulletin.
Immediate relatives of U.S. citizens do not have to wait for a visa number, which can significantly shorten the timeline.
Step 4: Adjustment of Status or Consular Processing
Once a visa number is available, your family member can apply for their green card through one of two methods.
They include:
- Adjustment of Status (Form I-485): For individuals already in the U.S.
- Consular Processing: For individuals outside the U.S., via an interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate.
Both processes involve a background check, medical examination, and interview. Errors or omissions at this stage can cause severe delays or denials, which is why working with a knowledgeable attorney is essential.
Step 5: Receive the Green Card and Begin a New Chapter
If approved, your family member will receive a green card and gain lawful permanent residency in the U.S. They can live, work, and study there and eventually apply for U.S. citizenship if eligible.
At Peek Law Group, we understand how important it is to bring your family together. We guide families through each step of the sponsorship process, ensuring their applications are complete, accurate, and positioned for success.
Need Help Sponsoring a Family Member? Contact Peek Law Group
If you’re ready to sponsor a loved one for a green card, let our experienced Texas immigration attorneys help. Contact Peek Law Group at (512) 399-2311 or complete our online form today for a consultation, and take the next step toward reuniting your family.
