Family Visas

Family visas allow close relatives of U.S. citizens or residents to immigrate and live in the United States legally.

Family Visas

Family-based visas allow U.S. citizens and permanent residents to sponsor certain relatives for immigration to the United States. The type of visa depends on the nature of the family relationship and the immigration status of the sponsor. Below is a breakdown of the main types of family visas and how the process works.

Types of Family-Based Visas

K-1 Fiancé(e) Visa

This visa is for individuals engaged to a U.S. citizen. It allows the non-citizen partner to enter the country for the purpose of marriage. The couple must marry within 90 days of the non-citizen’s arrival. After the marriage, the foreign partner can apply for a green card.

K-3 Spouse Visa

Designed for foreign nationals already married to a U.S. citizen, the K-3 visa allows entry to the U.S. while the I-130 petition is pending. It serves as a temporary solution to help families reunite sooner.

Immediate Relative Visa

This visa category is for spouses, unmarried children under 21, or parents of U.S. citizens. It does not have a yearly cap, making it one of the fastest paths to permanent residency.

Family Preference Visa

This visa allows extended family members to immigrate under a preference-based system. Eligible applicants include spouses and unmarried children of green card holders, as well as married children and siblings of U.S. citizens. However, this category is subject to annual limits and longer wait times.

Preference Levels:

F1 – Unmarried sons and daughters (21 or older) of U.S. citizens
F2A – Spouses and unmarried children (under 21) of permanent residents
F2B – Unmarried sons and daughters (21 or older) of permanent residents
F3 – Married sons and daughters of U.S. citizens
F4 – Siblings of U.S. citizens (21 or older)

How to Apply for a Family Visa

The application process begins with the U.S. relative filing the correct petition with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). For a K-1 visa, this is Form I-129F. For all other family visas, Form I-130 is required. The foreign beneficiary must also complete forms through the Department of State and schedule an interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate in their country.

Required Interview Documents

Applicants attending an interview will need the following:

Valid passport (with at least six months remaining)
Confirmation page of the online visa application (DS-260 or DS-160)
Receipt of paid visa fees (if required before interview)
Civil documents (birth certificate, marriage certificate, etc.)
Completed medical examination form
Affidavit of Support (Form I-864) from the U.S. sponsor
Additional documents, such as criminal records or proof of relationship, may also be requested.

Family Visa Extensions

Most family visas lead to permanent residency and do not require extensions. However, temporary visas like the K-3 and K-4 may require an extension via Form I-539 if the I-130 petition is still pending. K-1 visas, on the other hand, cannot be extended—adjustment of status must be filed after marriage.

Support Through the Process

Applying for a family visa can be a complex and emotional journey. Whether you’re planning to marry a U.S. citizen or reunite with close relatives, understanding the process and requirements is crucial. Our team is here to guide you every step of the way.

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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Q1: Can US Immigration Counsel help me get a green card through family or marriage?
Yes. Whether you’re married to a U.S. citizen, have a relative sponsoring you, or need to adjust your status, we handle family-based green card cases with care and precision.

Q2: I’m facing deportation—can US Immigration Counsel defend me?
Absolutely. We fight deportation and removal cases in immigration court, build strong defenses, and pursue every legal option to protect your right to stay.

Q3: I’m applying for asylum or a humanitarian visa. Can she help?
Yes. We represent clients in asylum, VAWA, U Visa, and TPS cases—providing strong legal and emotional support throughout the process.

Q4: I want to become a U.S. citizen. Can US Immigration Counsel help me with naturalization?
Definitely. We guide clients through every step of the naturalization process, from preparing documents to interview coaching.

Q5: Can US Immigration Counsel help with immigration waivers or appeals?
Yes. If your case was denied or you need a waiver to move forward, we’ll review your options and build the strongest possible application or appeal.

Q6: I’m an employer looking to sponsor a foreign worker. Can you help?
Yes. We assist businesses and individuals with employment-based immigration, including work visas and green card sponsorship.

Q: Can US Immigration Counsel help me bring a spouse, child, or parent to the U.S.?
Yes. Family-based immigration is one of our core strengths. Whether your loved one is already in the U.S. or abroad, we’ll guide you through every step to bring them home legally and securely.

Q: What if I already filed something on my own or with another lawyer?
No problem. We frequently help clients who started elsewhere or alone. We’ll review everything and let you know the smartest next step.

Q: Can I petition for family if I’m not a U.S. citizen?
Depending on your current status, you may still qualify. During your consultation, we’ll explore all your options and determine the best path forward.

Q: I got a court notice—what should I do?
Contact us right away. Time is critical. We’ll review your case and act fast to protect your rights and build the strongest possible defense.

Q: Can US Immigration Counsel represent me if I’m in another state or in detention?
Yes. We represent clients across the U.S. and even those currently in immigration custody. Wherever you are, we’re ready to help.

Q: What if I already lost my case?
There may still be legal options. Appeals, motions, or reopening your case could be possible—we’ll analyze everything and guide you on your next move.

Q: Do I have to be in Florida to work with US Immigration Counsel?
Not at all. Immigration law is federal, which means we can represent you whether you’re in another state or anywhere in the world. Our clients come from across the U.S. and beyond.

Q: Can we do everything remotely?
Yes. From virtual consultations to secure document sharing, our firm is fully equipped to support you no matter where you are. You’ll receive the same care and expertise as if you were sitting in our office.