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Family-Based Immigration Professionals in Atlanta, GA
The Shpigler Law Firm LLC helps U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents (green card holders) bring their relatives to the United States or assist them in remaining here. We have more than 30 years of experience with family-related immigration working with individuals in Atlanta, GA and throughout the United States. Call us at (770) 592-0009 for more information about our services.
Individuals with qualifying family relationships may file petitions with USCIS on behalf of their relatives. These qualifying relationships fall into two categories: Immediate Relatives and Preference Immigrants. The U.S. immigration laws allow an unlimited number of visas for immediate relatives. However, there are limits on the number of visas granted to Preference Immigrants.
Immediate Relatives
Immediate relatives include spouses of U.S. citizens, minor children (under 21) of U.S. citizens, certain spouses of deceased U.S. citizens, and parents of U.S. citizens (provided that the citizen petitioner is at least 21).
Preference Immigrants
If your family members do not fall into the "Immediate Relative" category, you may be able to obtain green cards for them using one of the following Preference categories:
First Preference: Unmarried sons or daughters of U.S. Citizens (including those over 21).
Second Preference:(a) Spouses or children of lawful permanent residents, OR(b) Unmarried sons or unmarried daughters (but not the minor children) of lawful permanent residents.
Third Preference: Married sons or daughters of U.S. citizens.
Fourth Preference: Brothers or sisters of U.S. citizens if such citizens are at least 21 years old.
Derivative Beneficiaries: The spouse or child of the principal alien is entitled to the same status and order of consideration if accompanying or following to join the spouse or parent.
K-1 Fiancé(e) Visas
If you are a U.S. Citizen who intends to marry a foreign national who lives abroad, you can help your fiancé(e) immigrate to the United States by obtaining a fiancé(e) visa. This visa is available to the fiancé(e) of U.S. citizens who plan on marrying a U.S. citizen within 90 days of entering the U.S. and is initiated by the filing of Form I-129F with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). To qualify, the couple must have met in person at least one time in the two years before filing the petition, among other things. USCIS can waive the in-person meeting requirement in very limited situations.
