For many families, the immigration path begins with a relative. A U.S. citizen or permanent resident can petition for certain family members to obtain residence. It sounds simple, but in practice mistakes in these filings cost years.
Who you can petition for
If you are a U.S. citizen, you may petition for:
- Your spouse
- Your children (married or unmarried, under or over 21)
- Your parents (if you are 21 or older)
- Your siblings (if you are 21 or older)
If you are a permanent resident (green card holder), you may petition for your spouse and your unmarried children.
Waiting times vary widely by relationship and country of origin. Part of our job is telling you clearly what to expect before you begin.
What we do
- Family petitions (Form I-130) and assessment of the fastest path available for your family.
- Adjustment of status within the United States, when your relative is eligible.
- Consular processing when your relative is abroad.
- Waivers, including unlawful presence waivers — a step many families need, which requires showing extreme hardship to a qualifying relative.
- Removal of conditions on two-year residence.
- Complicated cases: prior entries, prior removal orders, or records affecting eligibility.
The mistake we see most
Many families file a correct petition but don't catch that their relative has a bar to admissibility — from a prior entry, a departure, or a record. Filing without resolving that first can trigger years of separation.
That's why we review the complete immigration history before filing anything. This isn't form-filling: it's strategy.
Frequently asked questions
Can I petition for my spouse if they entered without a visa?
You can file the petition, but manner of entry affects whether adjustment can happen inside the country or whether a waiver is needed. That analysis is exactly what we do first.
How long does it take?
It depends on the relationship, the country of origin, and USCIS and Department of State timelines. Some categories take months; others take many years. We'll give you a realistic expectation from the start.
Can I work while I wait?
In some cases a work permit can be requested along with adjustment of status. It depends on which path applies to your case.
What if a petition was denied before?
A prior denial doesn't always close the door. It's worth reviewing why it was denied — sometimes there's a different path.
Do you serve families throughout the Atlanta area?
Yes. Our office is in Lawrenceville and we serve families across the Atlanta metro area, with virtual and in-person consultations.
Other practice areas
Facing an immigration case? Let's talk
Every case is personal. Schedule a consultation and get clear guidance on your options — with a team that fights for your family.