Montgomery Family Visa Application Process

One of the major benefits that comes with immigrant visa programs is the opportunity act as a sponsor for your loved ones. Through this process, you could help your spouse, children, or other close family members obtain lawful permanent resident status in the United States.

These visas are often life-changing, but the Montgomery family visa application process is anything but simple. If you or your family members are considering getting a visa, it could benefit you to discuss your options with a skilled family immigration attorney.

Starting the Family Visa Application

The immigration process is full of forms and paperwork. In order to get the process of submitting a family visa application started, it is necessary for applicants in Montgomery to complete forms as well as provide additional documentation to the federal government. This process begins with a document known as Form I-130. Also called the Petition for Alien Relative, this form is filed by the person acting as a sponsor. Depending on the circumstances, the sponsor could be a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident.

Petitions for a Fiancé

The forms described in the previous section are related to long-term immigrant visas for immediate family members. However, there is also a temporary option available for U.S. residents that are engaged to be married to non-citizens.

This process is different from when a U.S. citizen is already married to a foreign resident. Federal law allows for something known as the Petition for Alien Fiancé. This petition, which is formally known as Form I-129(F), is the first step in securing a K-1 visa.

The K-1 visa is a temporary visa that exists purely for those engaged to be married to U.S. citizens. This type of visa usually only lasts for 90 days, during which time the wedding must occur. Once married, a long-term family visa becomes available.

After Filing the Petitions

Filing the appropriate petition is only the first step in the Montgomery family visa application process. For most people, the next step is to wait. Waiting for a decision can be a lengthy process, especially for anyone that does not qualify as a direct family member of a U.S. citizen. There are a limited number of family preference visas available each year, which means that it can take years before a decision is made.

Along the way, applicants can also expect to go through an interview process. Family visa applicants that reside outside of the country must go through what is known as the consular process. Part of this process is sitting down for an interview with a USCIS representative at the U.S. consulate. This consular interview occurs in the applicant’s country of residence as opposed to the United States. The interview is the government’s opportunity to follow up on any questions they might have while looking for potential red flags. When it comes to the fiancé of a U.S. citizen, agents might also look for evidence that the relationship is legitimate. A legal professional could help an applicant prepare for this hearing and overcome any other challenges that arise on the path to securing a visa.

Learn About the Family Visa Application Process From a Montgomery Attorney

A family visa can be the best option for helping your spouse or immediate relatives live and work in the United States. This visa might be a life-changing opportunity, but the process of achieving this legal status is complex. There are challenges that come with the Montgomery family visa application process. Reach out to Solano Law Firm today for assistance.