What is the Family-Based Immigration process?

Family-based immigration is the process of reuniting family members in the United States through the sponsorship of a United States citizen or lawful permanent resident (LPR). This includes immigrants who are already married and those seeking to get married in Pennsylvania. The process begins when a U.S. citizen or LPR files a Petition for Alien Relative (Form I-130) with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This petition asks the US government to recognize the family relationships and grant an immigrant visa to the foreign-born spouse for entry into the United States. After the petition is approved, the foreign-born spouse is then eligible to apply for a visa, and for lawful permanent residence (green card) after entering the U.S. Married couples who are seeking to immigrate to the U.S. through family-based immigration must be legally married and must also meet the other technical requirements of the immigration law. The process can take anywhere from several months to several years depending on the particular circumstances and the type of visa classification sought by the foreign-born spouse. In addition to the immigration petition, spouses of U.S. residents may also be eligible for other immigration benefits such as work authorization and travel authorization. It is important to note that in order to successfully transition from the visa to the green card, the couple must demonstrate that they are still legally married and living together.

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El proceso de inmigración basado en la familia (Family-Based Immigration) es uno de los principales medios que un extranjero puede usar para establecer su residencia legal permanente en los Estados Unidos. Esto se logra presentando una petición de inmigración aprobada por la familia de un ciudadano americano o un residente permanente legal de los Estados Unidos. El ciudadano americano o residentes permanentes legal tienen que ser el solicitante de la petición, por lo que el extranjero debe ser cónyuge o familia inmediata. En el estado de Pennsylvania, la persona que desea presentar la petición debe cumplir con los requisitos de inmigración establecidos por el USCIS (United States Citizenship and Immigration Services). Esto incluye presentar documentación para demostrar la relación familiar, como certificado de matrimonio o un acta de nacimiento. Además, debe presentar documentación para demostrar la capacidad financiera del patrocinador para sostener al solicitante en los Estados Unidos, tales como la Declaración de Impuestos o una carta de empleo. El proceso de inmigración basado en la familia es un proceso largo y, a veces, desalentador. El USCIS tarda cerca de nueve a doce meses para procesar la solicitud y para que el solicitante obtenga su Residencia Legal Permanente. Sin embargo, es un camino seguro e incluso indispensable para muchos extranjeros que desean vivir y trabajar legalmente en los Estados Unidos.

Related FAQs

How long does it take to process a spousal visa?
If my spouse is a permanent resident, can I file for a marriage-based visa?
What is a green card interview and how do I prepare?
Is there a charge for filing a marriage-based visa application?
Is there a deadline for filing a marriage-based visa application?
What is the difference between an immigrant and non-immigrant visa?
What documents do I need to marry someone who is not a U.S. citizen?
Is there any special documentation I need to provide to prove my marriage is real?
What happens if my application for a marriage-based visa is denied?
How do I file for an Adjustment of Status for my spouse?

What is the Family-Based Immigration process?

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