Houston Family Based Immigration Attorney Helping You Achieve the American Dream

Houston Family Immigration Lawyer

Legal Guidance for Family-Based Immigration in Houston

Under the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA), family immigration allows eligible individuals to act as sponsors for family members obtaining immigration visas. This process can be confusing, time-consuming, and overwhelming.

It is important to ensure your application is not delayed or denied due to errors or omissions. To that end, it is vital that you seek the help of a trusted immigration attorney.

You can turn to the Galaviz Law Firm, PLLC with confidence for assistance with this process. Our Houston family immigration attorney has an in-depth knowledge of immigration law. He also has a personal passion for bringing and keeping families together. Read our Case Results and Reviews!

Connect with our immigration law firm for the help you need. Contact us by calling (713) 597-5642 or through our online request form today.

Understanding the U.S. Family Immigration Process

Current U.S. immigration law allows citizens and lawful permanent residents to sponsor their family members. These family members can obtain a green card for lawful permanent residence in the U.S.

The process for family-based immigration involves providing all necessary paperwork and documentation, meeting deadlines, filing fees, and more. Different requirements exist depending on the familial relationship between the sponsoring immigrant and their family member.

Under the law, two groups of visa categories exist for family-based immigration:

  • Visas for immediate relatives of U.S. citizens
  • Family preference visas for U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents

Visa Categories for Immediate Relatives of U.S. Citizens

Immediate relative visas are unlimited, meaning that there is no limit to how many visas may be approved through the system in any year. Immediate relatives of U.S. citizens include

  • Spouses
  • Unmarried children under the age of 21
  • Orphans adopted abroad or orphans to be adopted in the U.S.
  • Parents of U.S. citizens over the age of 21

Eligibility for Family Preference Visas

Family preference visas are limited, however. When the quota has been filled, no further visas may be obtained for that year. Family preference visas can be awarded to:

U.S Citizens can file for:

  • Unmarried sons and daughters of U.S. citizens and their minor children
  • Married sons and daughters of U.S. citizens and their minor children
  • Siblings of U.S. citizens, their spouses and children (U.S. citizen must be at least 21)

U.S. Lawful Permanent Residents can only file for:

  • Spouses
  • Minor children and unmarried children age 21 years and older

Those who cannot sponsor a family member for immigration include grandparents, aunts, uncles, in-laws, and cousins.

Local Insights on Family Immigration in Houston

Houston is a vibrant city with a rich tapestry of cultures, making it a prime destination for families. With the support of local resources such as the City of Houston and the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, navigating the family immigration process can be more manageable. However, many residents still face common challenges, such as understanding the complex paperwork and meeting strict deadlines.

Overcoming Common Immigration Challenges in Houston

Local families often express concerns about the lengthy processing times and the potential for application errors that could lead to delays or denials. The Houston area is home to many immigrant communities, and the need for clear, accessible legal guidance is paramount. Our team at Galaviz Law Firm, PLLC, focuses on addressing these pain points, offering personalized support tailored to the unique needs of Houston families.

The immigration process can feel daunting, especially when it involves loved ones. Our Houston family immigration attorney combines legal knowledge with a deep understanding of the emotional challenges these applications bring. Every step is carefully managed to help you avoid errors and stay on track with deadlines.

Whether you reside in Houston Heights, River Oaks, or any of the surrounding neighborhoods, we offer support to help you pursue your immigration goals. Contact us today to learn more about bringing your family together in Houston.

Choose Galaviz Law Firm for Your Family Immigration Needs

At Galaviz Law Firm, PLLC, we understand the stress involved in handling the immigration process. This stress can be amplified when it concerns loved ones. That is why we work tirelessly to help bridge the gap in assisting our clients throughout the entire proceeding.

As the son of parents who emigrated, our Houston family immigration attorney knows how deeply important your visa petition will be to your future. He is committed to helping you achieve its success.

Find out more about how we can help you achieve your immigration goals. Contact our Houston law office online or at (713) 597-5642 today to get started.

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Commonly Asked Questions

What are the first steps for applying for a family-based immigration visa?

To initiate the process for a family-based immigration visa, the U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident who wishes to sponsor their family member must file a petition. This involves completing and submitting Form I-130, the Petition for Alien Relative. Along with the petition, you will need to provide proof of your relationship to the family member you are sponsoring, such as marriage certificates for spouses or birth certificates for children. It’s essential to gather all necessary documentation meticulously to prevent delays in processing. Consulting with a knowledgeable attorney can also help ensure that you fulfill all required steps correctly, especially if you're based in Houston, where local resources can add further value.

What challenges might I face when applying for family immigration in Houston?

Families in Houston often encounter several challenges during the immigration application process. These may include navigating complex and sometimes confusing paperwork, facing stringent deadlines, and understanding the specific requirements for different visa categories. Additionally, the emotional strain associated with lengthy processing times can be significant, especially for family members waiting to reunite. The local immigrant community often shares concerns about application mistakes that can lead to delays or denials. Engaging with a dedicated law firm can ease these concerns and provide much-needed clarity to help overcome these challenges effectively.

Our Satisfied Clients

  • Thanks Galaviz you beat the case!

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  • "My husband is a UNITED STATE NATURALIZED CITIZEN and Galaviz is to thank for his honesty, hard work, and patience."
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