Atlanta Family Immigration Visa Categories

Many residents dream of bringing their loved ones to the United States and reuniting their families. The family immigration visa process can make these dreams come true. However, the process is not always easy. Determining the correct visa for your situation and filing the related paperwork can be challenging when you are unfamiliar with the system and the related legal terms. Avoid potential mistakes and delays by learning more about the different Atlanta family immigration visa categories. A dedicated family immigration attorney who is familiar with the family visa system is an invaluable partner in the reunification of families in the U.S. Contact the dedicated lawyers at Solano Immigration Law Firm for answers to your questions.

Family Immigration Categories

Every family has unique needs. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) offers a variety of visa options to meet distinct immigration needs. An Atlanta family immigration attorney could help explain the visa categories, which include:

K-1 Fiance(e) Visa

A K-1 visa allows a noncitizen engaged to a U.S. citizen to enter and reside in the United States while preparing for marriage. To obtain a K-1 visa, the applicant must meet specific requirements, which include:

• The noncitizen fiancé (e) must pass a medical exam
• After receiving the visa, the recipient must come to the U.S. within 180 days
• The couple must marry within 90 days after the fiancé (e) arrives
• Failure to meet the requirements may result in deportation

K-2 Visa

A K-2 visa allows a K-1 visa holder to bring their children to the United States. However, the eligibility of K-2 holders depends on the K-1 holder adhering to the regulations. If the K-1 visa holder is deported, their children will be too.

K-3 Spouse Visa

A K-3 visa allows a noncitizen who is married to an American citizen to live with their spouse in the U.S. The citizen spouse is responsible for obtaining the K-3 visa by filing an I-130 petition.

K-4 Child of Spouse Visa

A K-4 visa allows a K-3 visa holder to have their children reside with them in the U.S. Similar to a K-2 visa, a K-4 visa depends on the compliance of the K-3 visa holder.

Priority for Immigrant Visas

A U.S. citizen or U.S. lawful permanent resident (green card holder) can sponsor a family member who is an immediate relative and at least 21 years old to gain documentation to reside in the United States. U.S. immigration law divides family relationships into four preference levels.

• First Priority: Unmarried children of U.S. citizens who are 21 and older
• Second Priority: Spouses and children (unmarried and under 21 years old) of lawful permanent residents and unmarried children (21 years and older) of lawful permanent residents
• Third Priority: Married children of U.S. citizens
• Fourth Priority: Siblings of U.S. citizens (21 and older)

Petitioners applying for family preference visas are granted a priority date based on when the application is filed. Applicants may be required to wait years before one becomes available. Dates are published on the Visa Bulletin and change frequently, making staying up to date on recent information crucial.

Contact an Experienced Immigration Lawyer to Learn More About Family Visa Categories

Understanding Atlanta family immigration visa categories is only the first step in the complex process of petitioning for a family visa. Petitioners must get the correct forms filed without any errors to ensure the process goes smoothly. An experienced immigration lawyer could help you navigate the legal process of sponsoring your family members and reuniting your family in the United States.

Whether you are just beginning the process or have been waiting years to see results, the Atlanta family immigration lawyers at Solano Immigration Law Firm could help you fulfill the requirements to obtain a family visa. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation.