Family-based immigration is one of the most meaningful pathways to the United States, as it allows families to reunite and build their lives together. U.S. immigration law recognizes the importance of family unity, making it possible for U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents to sponsor their relatives for visas or green cards.
Deciding to petition for a family member is one of the most significant steps you can take, and the process can vary depending on your relationship and immigration status. Whether sponsoring a fiancé(e), spouse, child, parent, or sibling, there are different categories and requirements to ensure a successful outcome. At Direct U.S. Immigration, we guide families through every step of this process with clarity and care.
IR-1 / CR-1
Allows the foreign spouse of a U.S. citizen to immigrate to the United States as a permanent resident.
IR-2
Grants permanent residency to an unmarried child under 21 of a U.S. citizen
IR-3 / IR-4
Enables orphans adopted abroad (IR-3) or within the U.S. (IR-4) by a U.S. citizen to obtain permanent residency.
IR-5
Allows parents of U.S. citizens (age 21 or older) to immigrate to the United States as permanent residents.
Fiancé(e)
Permits a foreign fiancé(e) of a U.S. citizen to enter the U.S. for the purpose of marriage within 90 days.
Family-Based Immigration Services
Family unity is at the heart of U.S. immigration law, but the process of sponsoring loved ones can often feel complicated and overwhelming. At Direct U.S. Immigration, our trusted attorneys, consultants, and specialists help families avoid the pitfalls that commonly lead to delays or denials — such as missing documentation, incomplete applications, or challenges proving the qualifying family relationship.
We provide step-by-step support to ensure every part of the process is handled with care, whether you’re sponsoring a spouse, fiancé(e), child, parent, or sibling. Our modern approach combines legal expertise with innovative technology to make the process faster, more transparent, and less stressful. From preparing petitions and gathering evidence to navigating interviews and responding to requests from U.S. immigration authorities, we are here to guide you every step of the way.
With experience serving clients from more than 150 nationalities, we are committed to reuniting families and helping them build a secure future together in the United States.
Talk to an Attorney About Family-Based Immigration
U.S. citizens can sponsor their spouse, fiancé(e), children, parents, and siblings. Lawful permanent residents (green card holders) can sponsor their spouse and unmarried children. The type of visa and waiting time depends on your immigration status and your relationship to the family member.
2. What is the difference between immediate relatives and family preference categories?
Immediate relatives of U.S. citizens (such as spouses, unmarried children under 21, and parents) are not subject to annual visa limits, meaning visas are always available. Family preference categories, such as siblings or married children of U.S. citizens, are subject to yearly limits and may involve longer wait times.
3. How long does the family-based immigration process take?
Processing times vary depending on the relationship, the petitioner’s immigration status, and visa availability. Immediate relative petitions typically take over a year of processing, while preference category cases (like siblings of U.S. citizens) can take several years or more due to visa backlogs.
4. Can my family member work while waiting for their green card?
In many cases, family members applying for adjustment of status within the U.S. can also apply for a work permit (Employment Authorization Document). This allows them to legally work while their green card application is being processed. Our team ensures that eligible applicants file the necessary forms to minimize disruptions.
Choose Direct U.S. Immigration
Trusted Expertise with Personalized Attention
Our team of attorneys, consultants, and specialists have extensive experience handling both simple and complex immigration cases across employment, investment, family, and humanitarian matters. Unlike large firms that treat clients as case numbers, we provide custom-tailored legal strategies designed around your specific goals and circumstances.
Modern, Efficient, and Accessible Approach
We combine top-tier legal expertise with cutting-edge technology to streamline the immigration process. This means faster preparation, transparent communication, and real-time updates — without the long delays and rigid processes that many clients experience at traditional law firms.
Proven Success Serving a Global Community
With clients from over 150 nationalities, we have a proven track record of guiding individuals, families, and businesses through the U.S. immigration system. Whether your case is straightforward or highly complex, you can rely on us for clarity, efficiency, and unwavering support from start to finish.
Talk to an Attorney About Family-Based Immigration
