Family sponsorship allows close relatives of U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents the chance to live together in the United States. The process involves paperwork, eligibility checks, and waiting times, but the goal is simple: keeping families united. According to the U.S. Department of State, more than 220,000 applicants were waiting in family preference categories as of 2023. This highlights how competitive and time-sensitive the process can be for many families.
This blog will explain the process, show who can qualify, highlight the value of a lawyer for filing sponsorship, and guide you to a trusted immigration lawyer in Portland, Maine.
Understanding the Family Based Green Card Process
Applying for a family-based green card starts when a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident files Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative) with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This petition confirms the qualifying family relationship.
Once USCIS approves the petition, the next step depends on visa availability:
- If a visa is available right away (such as for immediate relatives of U.S. citizens), the applicant may be able to file Form I-485 to adjust status while staying in the U.S.
- If a visa is not immediately available, the case is sent to the National Visa Center (NVC) for consular processing. In this step, the applicant prepares for an interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate abroad.
It’s also important to track priority dates in the Visa Bulletin to know when an immigrant visa becomes available. Along the way, applicants will need to submit required fees and supporting documents, which may include Form I-693 (medical exam and vaccination record).
By understanding how the process works — and staying organized with documents, deadlines, and visa availability — families can avoid unnecessary delays and move one step closer to being together in the United States.
Who Qualifies for a Green Card for Family Members
Not every family member is eligible for a green card. U.S. immigration law divides relatives into two main categories: immediate relatives and family preference relatives. Each group has different rules, waiting times, and benefits.
Immediate Relatives of U.S. Citizens
These are the closest family members of U.S. citizens. They qualify more quickly because there are no annual limits on visas in this category. Immediate relatives include:
- Spouses of U.S. citizens
- Unmarried children under 21 of U.S. citizens
- Parents of U.S. citizens (if the citizen is at least 21 years old)
Since visas are always available for immediate relatives, these applicants can usually move forward as soon as their petition is approved.
Family Preference Categories
Other relatives may qualify under the “family preference” system, but they face annual visa limits and longer wait times. These categories include:
- Unmarried adult children of U.S. citizens
- Married children of U.S. citizens
- Brothers and sisters of U.S. citizens
- Spouses and unmarried children of lawful permanent residents
For these applicants, the priority date determines when a visa becomes available, and the Visa Bulletin must be carefully tracked.
Additional Requirements
No matter the category, all applicants must:
- Prove the family relationship (for example, with a marriage certificate or birth certificate)
- Submit the correct forms and supporting documents
- Meet all eligibility rules and avoid grounds of inadmissibility (such as certain immigration or criminal violations)
Processing Options
Once a visa becomes available, there are two main ways to continue the process:
- Adjustment of Status: Applicants already in the U.S. may be able to file Form I-485.
- Consular Processing: Applicants living abroad will attend an interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate.
Why You Need a Lawyer for Filing Sponsorship
Many families ask whether they really need a lawyer to file a family sponsorship petition. The answer depends on the case. Some straightforward petitions may be filed without professional help, but many families find that having legal support early on prevents mistakes that can cause costly delays or even denials.
How a Lawyer Can Help
- Reviewing key forms like Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative) and Form I-485 (Application to Adjust Status) to reduce the risk of errors.
- Explaining each step of the process in plain language so you know exactly what to expect.
- Handling complex issues such as inadmissibility, prior denials, or requests for waivers.
- Providing peace of mind by making sure deadlines are met and documents are complete.
Considering the Costs
Legal services do involve professional fees, and some simple cases may not require full representation. But for most families, the investment saves time, reduces stress, and prevents the kinds of errors that can delay a green card application for months or even years.
At Aga Asbury Immigration Law, we work closely with families to determine the right level of support — from reviewing documents to managing the entire sponsorship process. Our goal is to give you peace of mind and the confidence that your family’s case is being handled with care.
Finding a Good Immigration Lawyer in Portland, Maine
Families in the Portland, Maine area often search for an immigration lawyer who can provide clear communication and steady support throughout the green card process. Experience matters — especially when it comes to handling family sponsorship petitions and adjustment of status cases.
Here are some ways the right legal support can make a difference:
Case Evaluation
A lawyer reviews eligibility, explains the Visa Bulletin, and helps you understand whether a family-based green card or adjustment of status is possible.
Document Preparation
An attorney ensures forms like Form I-130 and Form I-485 are filed correctly, avoiding mistakes that could cause delays.
Step-by-Step Guidance
Clear explanations of timelines, requirements, and supporting documents help families feel less stressed and more confident.
Ongoing Support
From consular processing to USCIS interviews, professional guidance keeps families informed at every stage.
Choosing an immigration lawyer serving the Portland, Maine area gives families peace of mind that they’re not handling this process alone. With experienced legal guidance, families can move forward with greater confidence, knowing that every step is managed carefully and correctly.
Ready to Begin Your Family Sponsorship Journey?
We understand that applying for permanent residence through a family petition can feel overwhelming, because it is about more than paperwork—it’s about reuniting families.
At Aga Asbury Immigration Law, we guide you through the process, explain who qualifies for permanent residence through family sponsorship, and provide skilled legal support throughout the application process. With our steady guidance, you can work with an experienced immigration lawyer in Portland, Maine, who offers personal care and clear steps.
Call us now to take the next step toward living together in the U.S. with confidence.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Reading this blog does not create an attorney–client relationship with Asbury Immigration Law or Aga Asbury. Every immigration case is unique, and you should consult directly with a qualified immigration attorney regarding your specific circumstances before making decisions.