Managing Attorney
Family sponsorship is one of the most meaningful ways to reunite loved ones and build a new life in the United States. Through this process, U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents can petition for certain relatives to join them as permanent residents. The family sponsorship system offers a clear path to connection and stability, allowing families to stay together while pursuing opportunities and a future in America.
How Family Sponsorship Works
Family sponsorship allows eligible U.S. citizens and green card holders to help relatives obtain lawful permanent residency. The process begins when the sponsor files Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
Once approved, the application moves through additional steps depending on the applicant’s relationship to the sponsor and whether they are already in the United States or abroad. Some relatives qualify for immediate visas, while others may face longer waiting periods due to annual visa limits.
Who Can Be Sponsored Through a Family Petition
Not every relative qualifies for family-based immigration. USCIS divides family sponsorship into two main categories: immediate relatives and family preference categories.
Immediate relatives of U.S. citizens have priority and are not subject to annual visa limits. These include:
- Spouses of U.S. citizens
- Unmarried children under 21 of U.S. citizens
- Parents of U.S. citizens age 21 or older
Family preference categories apply to other relatives and are subject to visa backlogs:
- F1: Unmarried sons and daughters (21 or older) of U.S. citizens
- F2A: Spouses and unmarried children (under 21) of lawful permanent residents
- F2B: Unmarried sons and daughters (21 or older) of lawful permanent residents
- F3: Married sons and daughters of U.S. citizens
- F4: Brothers and sisters of U.S. citizens age 21 or older
Each category has its own wait time based on the applicant’s country and the number of available visas.
What Sponsors Need to Know Before Applying
Before filing, potential sponsors should understand both the financial and legal responsibilities involved. The government requires proof that the sponsor can financially support their relative to prevent the immigrant from relying on public assistance.
You will need to:
- Submit Form I-864, Affidavit of Support, demonstrating sufficient income or assets.
- Maintain financial responsibility for the sponsored relative until they become a U.S. citizen or work long enough to earn 40 quarters (about 10 years) of Social Security credits.
- Keep all documentation accurate and up to date to avoid delays or denials.
Sponsors should also review potential eligibility issues such as prior immigration violations, criminal history, or missing documentation. A small error or misunderstanding can lead to long delays.
The Processing Timeline and What to Expect
Processing times vary depending on the relationship, country of origin, and current visa backlogs. Immediate relatives of U.S. citizens are not subject to visa caps, so their cases typically move faster than those in the preference categories.
Once a visa becomes available:
- Applicants abroad complete the consular processing at a U.S. embassy or consulate.
- Applicants already in the U.S. may apply for adjustment of status through Form I-485.
During this stage, background checks, medical exams, and interviews are required before final approval.
Keeping Families Together Through Immigration
Family sponsorship remains one of the most meaningful ways to bring loved ones together and build a new future in the United States. The process can be complex and emotionally charged, but with careful preparation and guidance, many families successfully achieve lawful permanent residency for their relatives.
Partner with Zepeda Law Firm
At Zepeda Law Firm, we help Texas families through every step of the immigration process, from filing petitions to managing documentation and preparing for interviews. If you’re ready to reunite with your loved ones, we’ll guide you through the process.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward reuniting your family..
Frequently Asked Questions About Family Sponsorship
What is the difference between a sponsor and a petitioner?
They are the same person. The U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident who files Form I-130 is both the sponsor and the petitioner for their relative.
How long does it take for a family petition to be approved?
Approval can take several months to over a year, depending on USCIS workload and the applicant’s category. Preference category applicants may wait several additional years for a visa to become available.
Can a green card holder sponsor a sibling or married child?
No. Only U.S. citizens age 21 or older can petition for married children or siblings. Green card holders may only sponsor a spouse or unmarried children.