Family-based immigration offers a powerful way for U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents to reunite with loved ones in the United States. But not everyone is eligible for sponsorship, and the process can vary depending on your status and your family relationship.

At Garcia, Miranda & Gonzalez-Rua, P.A., we guide families through these rules to help make the dream of living together in the U.S. a reality.

Here’s what you need to know about who you can sponsor—and how our attorneys can help.

Sponsorship as a U.S. Citizen

If you are a U.S. citizen (at least 21 years old), you can file a petition for these family members:

✅ Spouse – You can sponsor your husband or wife for a green card.

✅ Children – Both unmarried children under 21 and married or adult children may qualify under different preference categories.

✅ Parents – U.S. citizens can petition for their parents once they turn 21.

✅ Siblings – You can sponsor a brother or sister, though this category often has a longer wait time due to annual limits.

Sponsorship as a Lawful Permanent Resident (Green Card Holder)

If you are a green card holder, your sponsorship options are more limited. You may petition for:

✅ Spouse – Your husband or wife may be eligible for a green card through your petition.

✅ Unmarried children – Both minor and adult unmarried children may qualify.

📝 Important note: Green card holders cannot sponsor parents or married children.

Immediate Relatives vs. Family Preference Categories

The type of family relationship determines how quickly your loved one might be able to immigrate:

• Immediate relatives (of U.S. citizens): Spouses, unmarried children under 21, and parents of U.S. citizens have visas available without annual caps.
• Family preference categories: Siblings, married children, and green card holder petitions are subject to annual limits, which can result in longer wait times.

Why Legal Guidance Matters

Family-based immigration can be complex, especially when dealing with long wait times, documentation requirements, or potential ineligibility issues. At Garcia, Miranda & Gonzalez-Rua, P.A., our attorneys help you:

✅ Identify the right visa option
✅ File accurate and complete petitions
✅ Navigate visa bulletin wait times
✅ Respond to requests for evidence