Helping Families Reunite and Build Their Future in the United States

Family unity is at the heart of U.S. immigration law. When loved ones are separated by borders, the process of bringing them together can feel overwhelming, emotional, and complex. We understand the personal importance of family-based immigration and approach every case with care, precision, and respect for what is at stake.

We assist individuals and families at every stage of the family immigration journey from determining eligibility for family sponsorship to guiding applicants through permanent residence and, ultimately, U.S. citizenship. Our goal is to help families reunite lawfully and move forward with confidence and stability.

Family-Based Immigrant Visas

U.S. immigration law allows certain family members of U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents to immigrate through family sponsorship. These applications generally fall into two main categories.

Immediate Relative Category

Immediate relatives of U.S. citizens benefit from immigration pathways that are not subject to annual visa quotas. This category includes:

• Spouses of U.S. citizens

• Unmarried children of U.S. citizens under 21

• Parents of U.S. citizens (if the sponsoring citizen is at least 21 years old)

Each qualifying family member generally requires a separate petition. In some circumstances, special provisions may apply, including cases involving surviving spouses.

Family Preference Categories

Other qualifying family relationships fall under the family preference system, which is subject to annual quotas and processing backlogs. These categories include:

• Unmarried adult sons and daughters of U.S. citizens

• Spouses and unmarried children of lawful permanent residents

• Married sons and daughters of U.S. citizens

• Siblings of U.S. citizens (where the sponsoring citizen is at least 21)

In preference category cases, eligible spouses and children of the principal beneficiary may be included as derivatives, allowing families to immigrate together.

Important Considerations for Family Immigration

Family-based immigration involves more than filing forms. Applicants and sponsors must meet specific legal and procedural requirements, including:

• A legally binding Affidavit of Support, demonstrating the sponsor’s financial ability

• Sponsors must generally be at least 18 years old, hold U.S. citizenship or permanent residence, and reside in the United States

• In certain cases, a joint sponsor may be permitted

• All applicants must complete a required medical examination

• Applicants aged 16 or older must submit police clearance certificates, depending on country of residence

• Government filing fees are mandatory and non-refundable

Careful preparation is essential to avoid delays or refusals.

Waivers of Inadmissibility

Some applicants may require a waiver due to prior immigration violations or other grounds of inadmissibility. Family relationships alone do not automatically resolve these issues. Proper legal analysis is critical before submitting any application.

We assist clients in evaluating whether a waiver is required and, when appropriate, preparing well-documented waiver applications designed to address legal concerns and demonstrate eligibility for relief.

Marriage & Fiancé (K-1) Visas

We assist couples with immigration pathways related to marriage and engagement, including:

• Fiancé (K-1) visas / Fiancé  Visas

• Marriage-based immigrant petitions

• Adjustment of status after marriage

• Consular processing for spouses abroad

Each case is approached with attention to documentation, timing, and compliance to support a smooth process.

Green Cards for Family Members

Eligible U.S. citizens and permanent residents may sponsor qualifying family members for lawful permanent residence. We guide families through both immediate relative and preference-based green card processes, ensuring applications are complete, accurate, and strategically prepared.

U.S. Citizenship & Naturalization

Permanent residents who are ready to take the final step toward U.S. citizenship can receive guidance throughout the naturalization process. This includes eligibility review, application preparation, interview readiness, and addressing potential concerns before filing.

Consular Processing for Family Members Abroad

When family members are outside the United States, we manage the consular processing process from start to finish coordinating petitions, documentation, and embassy interview preparation to help families reunite as efficiently as possible.

Speak With an Immigration Professional 

Schedule a consultation with our immigration professional to explore your family sponsorship, green card, or citizenship options and move forward with confidence.

U.S. Immigration Disclaimer
Crightney Immigration provides immigration consulting and administrative support services. U.S. immigration matters may involve collaboration with U.S. licensed attorneys where required by law. This website provides general information only and does not constitute legal advice or create an attorney-client relationship.