Riverside Immigration Law Firm Helping Families

One of the many benefits of U.S. citizenship is the right to sponsor family members to come live in the United States. Although permanent residents are eligible to petition for a spouse or child, only U.S. citizens over the age of 21 are granted the right to sponsor parents or siblings. The application process and requirements to sponsor a parent to come to the United States vary according to where the parent resides and the child-parent relationship. To understand which rules apply to your case, it is wise to consult with an experienced immigration law firm in Riverside.

Understanding the sponsorship process

The first step in the sponsorship process is for a U.S. citizen to submit form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, and demonstrate an ability to adequately support immigrating parents. To do so, household income must be shown to be at least 125 percent or more above the U.S. poverty level. Additional documentation proving familial ties is also required. Once a petition is approved, the next steps in the process vary according to whether the parent is currently in the United States.

If a parent does currently reside in the United States, they may apply for an Adjustment of Status, using form I-485 to request permanent residency status. If a parent is outside the United States, processing continues through the nearest U.S. consulate in the parent’s country where he or she will complete the necessary steps for an immigrant visa. Once obtained, the visa can be used to enter the United States and officially become a permanent resident.

Skilled Riverside immigration attorneys can help

Enlisting help from a reputable Riverside immigration law firm can greatly simplify and expedite the sponsorship process. The attorneys at Wilner & O'Reilly help maximize a smooth application experience. We take care of the details to save clients valuable time and energy. As one of the top immigration law firms in Riverside, we easily recognize potential red flags or complexities that may otherwise go unnoticed and lead to delays or denial of a claim.

Sponsoring family is an important undertaking with lasting consequences. Skilled Riverside immigration law firms such as Wilner & O'Reilly help ensure your application is done right the first time and family is brought together as quickly as possible. Contact the attorneys at Wilner & O'Reilly to discuss your family-based immigration matter.