Family Preference Visas in Mesa

It is not always easy for foreign residents to secure the right to live and work in the United States. One of the most common approaches is family immigration, which involves a citizen or lawful permanent resident sponsoring their loved ones for visas. 

One option is family preference visas in Mesa. Thousands of people use this approach each year, but it can take time for an application to be granted. A dedicated family immigration attorney could explain how this program works and answer any questions about securing lawful residency.

Who Qualifies?

Family preference visas are available for relatives of citizens and lawful permanent residents who do not qualify for the more favorable immediate family member program. A limited number of slots are available annually, and most people will have to wait over a year before their application is ever considered. 

Certain family members of U.S. citizens in Mesa must pursue family preference visas: the children of citizens who are either 21 years of age or older or those who are legally married. 

Some relatives of lawful permanent residents, including their spouses and children, also qualify for this program. Married or adult children at least 21 years of age have a lower priority than minors. Adult siblings can also qualify. 

How to Apply

Regardless of an applicant’s relationship with their sponsor, obtaining a visa involves a lot of paperwork. The first step is to file Form I-130, also called the Petition for Alien Relative. Alternatively, a person already living in the country will use Form I-145, commonly known as the Application to Adjust Status or Register Permanent Residence. 

No matter which form is used, the sponsor must also provide their documentation in the form of an Affidavit of Support. The document, executed by the resident or citizen sponsoring the applicant, promises they can provide for the immigrant’s basic necessities should they be awarded a visa. 

This requirement covers every expense related to a person living in the United States, including food, shelter, medical care, and other needs. Promising to provide this support is not enough; the sponsor must offer proof that their income is high enough to pay for these things. In some situations, a co-sponsor could join to provide enough income to support the applicant. 

Once the paperwork is in order, the next step is to complete an interview with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This interview occurs either in the U.S. or the applicant’s home country, depending on where they lived at the time they applied. A dedicated attorney could prepare an applicant in Mesa for their family preference visa interview.

Talk to a Mesa Attorney About Family Preference Visas

Countless people submit their applications to USCIS each year, but not everyone is accepted. Many people are surprised to find that their request is denied. A skilled attorney could help with every step of this process. 

Now is the time to let your lawyer help you secure family preference visas in Mesa. Call right away to discuss your options during a confidential consultation.