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Immigration Lawyer Chicago/ Services/ Family Immigration Lawyers Reuniting Loved Ones

Family-based immigration enables U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents (LPRs) to petition for certain family members to immigrate to the United States. This process allows families to reunite and build a life together in America. 

Family-based immigration is complex, emotional, and time-consuming. Eligibility relies on the petitioner’s citizenship status and the family relationship. Drawing on our proven track record in family-based immigration, our experienced team of knowledgeable immigration attorneys can walk you through each step—from filing the petition form to preparing for visa interviews. 

We’re committed to helping families successfully navigate the immigration system and to bringing loved ones together.

Who Qualifies for Family-Based Immigration?

Family member eligibility for family-based immigration depends on the petitioner’s citizenship status and the family’s relationship with the petitioner. Our compassionate and supportive team will steer you through the immigrant family sponsorship process.

United States citizens can petition for their spouse, children of any age and marital status, parents, and siblings. Fiancé(e) visas are also available if you are engaged to a foreign national.

Permanent residents (green card holders) have fewer options than U.S. citizens. LPRs can petition for their spouse, unmarried children under age 21, and unmarried children of any age.

Immigrant family staying together, happy woman with her husband and young step daughters

 

What Types of Visas Are Available for Family Members?

Several options are available for family visas. Our family visa lawyers will help you choose the best option for your circumstances.

Our family visa lawyers work tirelessly to lessen the precious time you spend separated from your children. Options we will consider include the following.

IR-2 Visa: Family-Based Green Card for Children

Petitioners can sponsor their non-citizen children for a green card through the IR-2 child visa process. This is open to unmarried children of U.S. citizens under age 21. The IR-2 visa enables a child to obtain a green card that allows them to work without an Employment Authorization Document (EAD). Form I-130 Petition for Alien Relative is required to begin the process.

K-2 Visa: Path to a Green Card for Children

K-2 visas allow the engaged partners of U.S. citizens to bring their children into the country. The children must be under 21 and unmarried to qualify. The citizen sponsor must submit Form I-129F Petition for Alien Fiancé(e). Before applying for the K-2 visa, the engaged non-citizen must have a K-1 fiancé(e) visa in process. Once the marriage is finalized, K-2 visa holders can apply for a green card using Form I-485 Adjustment of Status.

IR-2 Visa: Processing Time and Steps to Obtain an IR-2 Green Card for Kids

Our spousal and fiancé(e) visa lawyers help ensure you and your partner can start a life together in the United States. Options for bringing a spouse or fiancé(e) into the U.S. include the following.

CR-1 Visa: Spousal Green Card

The CR-1 visa allows the petitioner’s spouse to enter the U.S. as a conditional resident. After two years, the spouse must file for a 10-year green card. This visa is for individuals married for less than two years. Applicants must also file Form I-130 Petition for Alien Relative for this visa.

IR-1 Visa: Spousal Green Card

The IR-1 visa is for spouses who have been married for over two years. Permanent resident card holders must renew their card every 10 years. It grants immediate and unrestricted permanent residency upon entering the United States. Form I-130 Petition for Alien Relative is required to begin the process.

K1 Fiancé(e) Visa: Path to a Spousal Green Card

A U.S. citizen may petition their fiance(e) to come to the United States on a K1 visa. K1 visa eligibility mandates that the wedding must occur within 90 days of the individual’s arrival in the U.S., both parties are legally free to marry, and have met in person within the last two years (exceptions may apply). 

Form I-129F Petition for Alien Fiancé(e) is required for the K1 visa. Once the marriage is finalized, K-1 visa holders can apply for a green card with Form I-485 Adjustment of Status.

Form I-130 Petition for Alien Relative

Form I-129F Petition for Alien Fiancé(e)

Form I-485 Adjustment of Status

There are visa options available for other family members, including children over 21, children of your immigrant spouse, your parents, and your siblings. The process of sponsoring those family members begins with Form I-130 Petition for Alien Relative.

Form I-130 Petition for Alien Relative

Experienced in Family Reunification Immigration

Family-based immigration is the heart of Scott D. Pollock & Associates, P.C., as Scott himself is the child of immigrant parents who came to the United States for a better life. Our team is passionate about reuniting families as quickly and seamlessly as possible so you and your loved ones can be together.

Navigating the complexities of the family immigration system is easier and more successful with a family visa lawyer. At Scott D. Pollock & Associates, P.C., we understand the importance of your family’s immigration journey and are committed to helping you achieve United States citizenship. 

Let our team prioritize your family’s case and guide you every step of the way.

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