How family sponsorship works
Family-based immigration has two stages. First, the U.S. citizen or permanent resident files Form I-130 to prove the qualifying relationship. Once USCIS approves it and a visa number is available, the relative applies for the green card itself, either at a U.S. consulate abroad or, if eligible, from inside the United States.
Immediate relatives and preference categories
Immediate relatives of U.S. citizens (spouses, unmarried children under 21 and parents of citizens who are at least 21) are not subject to annual limits, so they don't wait for a visa number. Other relationships fall into preference categories with annual caps, which can mean waits of years depending on the category and country of birth.
Proving the relationship
For marriages, USCIS wants to see that the relationship is genuine, not just that a marriage certificate exists. Shared life evidence matters: joint finances, a shared home, photos over time, communication. We tell you which documents carry weight and how to present them.
The financial side
The sponsor must sign an affidavit of support showing they can support the relative at the required income level. If the sponsor's income isn't enough, assets or a joint sponsor may help. We check this early so it doesn't delay the case.
A case that went the distance
One of our clients described her I-130 case as complex and lengthy, and credited being able to ask questions throughout the process. That's how we run every family case: one team, responsive from the petition to the green card.
