Family-Based Green Cards
Reunite Your Family in the United States
One of the most important principles of U.S. immigration law is keeping families together. If you are a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident (green card holder), you may be able to sponsor certain family members for permanent residence in the United States.
At Francis Law, we guide families through every stage of the family-based green card process, from preparing the initial petition to navigating Adjustment of Status or Consular Processing. Whether you are sponsoring a spouse, parent, child, or sibling, we provide personalized legal guidance designed to avoid delays and maximize your chances of approval.
Family-based immigration generally falls into two categories: Immediate Relatives and Family Preference Categories. Immediate relatives of U.S. citizens are not subject to annual visa limits, while family preference categories have annual quotas that may result in waiting periods based on visa availability.
Immediate Relatives of U.S. Citizens
Immediate relatives receive the highest priority under U.S. immigration law because visas are immediately available. We assist with petitions for:
Spouses of U.S. Citizens
IR-1 / CR-1 petitions for the spouse of a U.S. citizen, including marriage-based green cards.
Unmarried Children Under 21
IR-2 petitions for the unmarried children under 21 of a U.S. citizen.
Parents of U.S. Citizens
IR-5 petitions for parents, available when the petitioning citizen is at least 21 years old.
These categories are not subject to annual visa quotas, making them among the fastest family-based immigration pathways.
Family Preference Categories
Certain family relationships are subject to annual visa limits established by Congress. Processing times vary depending on the applicant’s category, country of birth, and the monthly Visa Bulletin. We represent clients in all family preference categories, including:
F1
Unmarried sons and daughters (21 or older) of U.S. citizens.
F2A
Spouses and unmarried children (under 21) of lawful permanent residents.
F2B
Unmarried sons and daughters (21 or older) of lawful permanent residents.
F3
Married sons and daughters of U.S. citizens.
F4
Brothers and sisters of U.S. citizens, where the petitioner is at least 21 years old.
Each category has unique eligibility requirements and waiting periods. Our attorneys help you understand where your case falls and develop the best strategy for your family.
Our Family-Based Immigration Services
Our firm assists with every aspect of the family sponsorship process, including:
- Preparing and filing Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative
- Adjustment of Status applications for eligible applicants already in the United States
- Consular Processing for family members living abroad
- Marriage-based green cards
- Parent petitions
- Child sponsorship
- Sibling petitions
- Affidavits of Support (Form I-864)
- Responding to Requests for Evidence (RFEs)
- Interview preparation
- Waivers of inadmissibility when available
- Guidance on visa availability and priority dates
Why Work With Francis Law?
Family immigration is about more than filing paperwork. It is about helping loved ones build their future together in the United States. We understand that every family’s situation is unique, and we take the time to develop a legal strategy tailored to your goals.
Whether your case is straightforward or involves complex immigration issues, our team is committed to providing clear communication, practical advice, and experienced legal representation throughout the process.
Schedule a Consultation
If you are ready to sponsor a family member for a U.S. green card, we are here to help. Schedule a consultation today to discuss your eligibility, understand your options, and begin your family’s immigration journey with confidence.