Family Immigration Attorney Los Angeles

Reuniting Families Across Borders

Family separation is one of the most difficult challenges in immigration law. As a Los Angeles family immigration attorney, I help families navigate the complex process of bringing loved ones to the United States through family-based petitions and green card applications.

Family Immigration Categories

Immediate Relatives (No Wait Times)

Spouses of US Citizens: Marriage green cards and K-1 fiancé visas
Parents of US Citizens: For citizens 21 years or older
Unmarried Children Under 21: Of US citizens

Family Preference Categories (Limited Numbers)

F1: Unmarried adult children of US citizens
F2A: Spouses and unmarried children under 21 of permanent residents
F2B: Unmarried adult children of permanent residents
F3: Married children of US citizens
F4: Siblings of US citizens (petitioner must be 21+)

The Family Immigration Process

Step 1: I-130 Petition Filing

The US citizen or permanent resident files Form I-130 to establish the family relationship. This includes extensive documentation proving the family connection and petitioner's status.

Step 2: Priority Date and Waiting

Immediate relatives proceed directly to the next step. Family preference categories must wait for their priority date to become current based on the monthly Visa Bulletin.

Step 3: Immigrant Visa Processing

Once the priority date is current, the beneficiary either adjusts status in the US (I-485) or processes through a US consulate abroad.

Common Family Immigration Challenges

Long Wait Times: Family preference categories can have years-long backlogs
Document Requirements: Birth certificates, marriage certificates from foreign countries
Criminal History: Past violations affecting admissibility
Previous Immigration Violations: Overstays, unlawful presence issues
Financial Support: Meeting Affidavit of Support requirements
Age-Out Protection: Protecting children from aging out of categories

Understanding Priority Dates and Wait Times

Family preference categories are subject to annual numerical limits, creating backlogs that vary by country and category. Current approximate wait times:

F1 (Unmarried Adult Children): 7-20 years depending on country
F2A (Spouses/Children of Residents): 2-3 years
F2B (Adult Children of Residents): 5-15 years
F3 (Married Children): 8-22 years
F4 (Siblings): 13-24 years

Wait times are significantly longer for applicants from China, India, Mexico, and Philippines due to per-country limits.

Financial Support Requirements

All family-based immigration requires an Affidavit of Support (Form I-864), demonstrating the petitioner can financially support the immigrant at 125% of the federal poverty guidelines.

Meeting Income Requirements:

Current Income: Tax returns, employment letters, pay stubs
Assets: Bank accounts, property, investments (counted at 1/5 value)
Joint Sponsors: Additional sponsors when income is insufficient
Household Size: Including petitioner, immigrant, and dependents

Special Family Immigration Situations

Widows and Widowers

Special provisions for surviving spouses of US citizens who died before filing or during the process.

Adoption Cases

Complex requirements for families adopting children from abroad, including Hague Convention procedures.

V Visas

Temporary visas for spouses and children of permanent residents with approved but unavailable petitions.

Why Family Immigration Requires Expert Guidance

Family immigration cases involve deeply personal relationships and long-term commitments. The stakes are high, and the process is complex. You need an attorney who:

Understands Family Dynamics: Cultural sensitivities and relationship complexities
Plans for Long Backlogs: Strategic advice for multi-year processes
Handles Documentation: Securing foreign documents and translations
Provides Direct Access: Personal attention throughout the years-long process

Families We've Reunited

"After 15 years apart, Ruben helped us bring my mother to America. His patience and expertise made all the difference during the long wait."
— Sandra M., Family Reunification

"The sibling petition process seemed impossible, but Ruben guided us through every step. My brother finally received his green card last month."
— Roberto L., Los Angeles

Family Immigration Consultation

Ready to begin the process of bringing your family to America? Every family situation is unique, and success requires understanding your specific circumstances and long-term planning.

Call: (213) 344-4670
Email: Click To Email

Consultation for families - let's discuss your family immigration options and create a strategy for reunification.

Family Immigration Attorney Serving Los Angeles County

Located in Pasadena, I serve families throughout Los Angeles County, including Los Angeles, Glendale, Burbank, Arcadia, San Gabriel Valley, and surrounding communities. Whether you're petitioning for parents, children, or siblings, I'm here to help navigate the family immigration process with compassion and expertise.