Texas Family-Based Visa Attorneys

The United States immigration system provides specific pathways for citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their relatives. For many people, this process represents the most important step toward building a life together in a new country. At De Mott, Curtright & Armendáriz, LLP, we understand that nothing matters more than keeping families together. Our firm provides dedicated legal counsel to families seeking to live in the United States. We work diligently to support clients through every phase of the immigration process, upholding our mission to deliver high-quality legal representation to the global community.

Unifying Your Loved Ones with Family-Based Visas

Family-based immigration makes it possible for foreign nationals to become permanent residents of the United States through a relationship with a qualifying relative. The process requires a US citizen or lawful permanent resident to sponsor the applicant. These visas generally fall into two distinct categories based on the nature of the family relationship and the status of the sponsor. Understanding which category applies to your case is the first step in the application journey.

Immediate Relative Visas

Immediate relative visas are available to close family members of United States citizens. A key benefit of this category is that there is no limit on the number of visas issued each fiscal year. This often results in a faster process compared to other categories. To qualify as an immediate relative, an applicant must be:

• The spouse of a US citizen
• An unmarried child under 21 years of age of a US citizen
• An orphan who has been adopted abroad or is transitioning to the United States to be adopted by a U.S. citizen.
• A parent of a US citizen who is at least 21 years old

Family Preference Visas

This category applies to specific, more distant family relationships with US citizens and certain relationships with lawful permanent residents. Unlike immediate relative visas, Congress limits the number of family preference visas available each year. This annual cap often leads to waiting periods. The preference categories are organized by priority:

• First Preference (F1): Unmarried sons and daughters of US citizens and their minor children
• Second Preference (F2): Spouses, minor children, and unmarried sons and daughters (21 years old and over) of lawful permanent residents
• Third Preference (F3): Married sons and daughters of US citizens, as well as their spouses and minor children
• Fourth Preference (F4): Brothers and sisters of US citizens, as well as their spouses and minor children (given the US citizen is at least 21 years old)

Requirements And the Application Process

The petitioner must prove they have the financial means to support the beneficiary. This involves submitting an Affidavit of Support to prove the sponsor meets income requirements, which are generally 125% of the federal poverty guidelines. If the primary sponsor does not meet this threshold, a joint sponsor may be necessary.

Applicants must also gather substantial documentation to prove the validity of the family relationship. Common requirements include birth certificates, marriage certificates and proof of the sponsor’s citizenship or residency status. The application steps typically involve filing Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative. Once authorities approve the petition, the applicant proceeds to consular processing or adjustment of status if they are already in the United States.

How A Lawyer Can Help with Your Immigration Needs

Immigration laws change frequently and involve strict procedural requirements. A denial can result from simple errors such as insufficient documentation or filing the wrong form. Working with a qualified attorney provides applicants with a knowledgeable advocate who understands the system. At DMCA, our attorneys review every detail of a case to confirm eligibility and prepare a strong petition. We assist clients in gathering the necessary evidence and representing their interests before immigration authorities.

Secure Your Family’s Future With DMCA

Reuniting with loved ones in the United States is a life-changing milestone that deserves professional guidance and support. At DMCA, we are dedicated to providing comprehensive legal representation to families around the world, helping you through complex immigration processes. Let us be your trusted partner in achieving your immigration goals and making your dreams a reality. Contact us today to schedule a consultation. Your journey to a brighter future starts here.