Family-Based Immigration

For many people, immigrating to the United States is a dream come true. But often, the dream is not complete if immigration means that family members are left behind in another country. With family-based immigration, it is possible for U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents (green card holders) to sponsor their family members for immigration to the United States.

At The Law Offices of Farrukh Nuridinov, P.C., we understand what immigration means for families, because we are immigrants ourselves. We know how challenging it can be to get settled in a new country, and how much it means to have help. One of our greatest sources of satisfaction is helping families start a new life in this country—together.

Helping a Family Member Immigrate to the U.S.

If you are a citizen of the United States, or a lawful permanent resident with a green card, you can petition on behalf of certain family members. The process may differ somewhat depending on whether they are still in their home country or have already entered the U.S. Both U.S. citizens and green card holders may file Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative) for:

• Spouse
• Unmarried children of any age
• Stepchildren (in certain cases)

In addition, U.S. citizens may also petition on behalf of their married children; parents, and in some cases, stepparents; siblings; fiancé(e) and in some cases, their unmarried children under the age of 21.

In order to sponsor a relative, you will need documentation of your own immigration status and relationship to the person for whom you are petitioning. When the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) receives your petition, documentation and filing fee, they will send a receipt.

During the processing of the petition, USCIS may seek additional information and may conduct criminal background checks and interviews. If the petition is approved, your relative will need to go through a visa interview at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in their home country. If the relative you are sponsoring is already in the United States, eligible for a green card, and a visa is available, they can apply for an adjustment of status after the petition is approved. If they are not eligible for a green card for some reason, they may apply for an immigrant visa until such time as they become eligible to adjust their status.

This description of family-based immigration may sound straightforward, but the process can be confusing, and small errors can lead to lengthy delays or even the denial of your petition. To ensure the greatest chance of success for your family member’s immigration process, it is important to work with an experienced immigration attorney.

Experienced New York Family Immigration Attorney

Family-based immigration can be complicated. One of attorney Farrukh Nuridinov’s greatest strengths is being able to clearly explain complex legal matters so that clients can understand the process they are facing and will know what to expect. Being prepared and feeling supported makes the legal process easier.

Farrukh Nuridinov is committed to treating every client as if they are his only client. As an immigrant himself, he takes great pride in helping immigrants and their families get established in the United States so that they can have the freedom to pursue their dreams.