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833 733 7878

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833 733 7878

Book A Free Consultation now

Family Immigration Lawyer

Immigration Solutions for Your Loved Ones.

What a Family Immigration Attorney Can do For You

Bringing your loved ones to the United States is a major life step. A family immigration attorney in Texas helps you file the right petitions, meet strict deadlines, and avoid costly mistakes. Errors or missing documents can delay a visa or even lead to denial.

Andrew T. Thomas, Attorneys at Law, works with families across Texas to prepare family-based immigration petitions and guide them through each stage of the process. Whether you are sponsoring a spouse, child, parent, or fiancé(e), you receive clear guidance and organized support.

Your family’s future depends on careful planning and accurate filings. Taking action early can protect your loved one’s opportunity to live and work in the United States. Scheduling a consultation is the first step toward moving your case forward with confidence.

What Are Family-Based Petitions?

Family-based immigration allows U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents to sponsor certain relatives for lawful status. The Immigration and Nationality Act governs this process. While USCIS reviews and approves petitions, immigrant visas are issued through the U.S. Department of State, and annual limits apply in many categories.

Family-sponsored immigrants fall into two main groups:

  • Immediate relatives: This category includes spouses, unmarried children under 21, and parents of U.S. citizens who are at least 21 years old. Visas for immediate relatives are not subject to yearly limits.
  • Family preference categories: These include adult children and siblings of U.S. citizens, as well as certain relatives of green card holders. These visas are limited each year, which can result in longer wait times.

Your immigration status determines who you may petition for. In general, you must be a U.S. citizen, a lawful permanent resident, or, in certain cases, a recently admitted refugee or asylee. Each petition requires proof of the family relationship, financial sponsorship, and eligibility under immigration law.

Because visa categories, waiting periods, and eligibility rules vary, careful preparation matters. A family immigration attorney can help you understand which category applies to your case and guide you through the required forms and supporting documents.

Who Can Petition for a Family-Based Visa?

Family-based immigration involves several key steps and eligibility rules. Understanding who you can sponsor and how the process works can help you prepare more effectively.

You may be eligible to petition for:

  • A spouse
  • Children, including unmarried minor children and, in some cases, adult children
  • Parents, if you are a U.S. citizen age 21 or older
  • Siblings, if you are a U.S. citizen age 21 or older
  • A fiancé(e)
  • In certain situations, a prospective adopted child

The process typically begins by filing a family petition with USCIS. After approval, the case may move to the National Visa Center for consular processing or continue through adjustment of status if your relative is already in the United States.

Each stage requires properly completed forms, supporting documents, and proof that you meet financial sponsorship requirements. Missing information or filing errors can delay your case. Careful preparation from the start can help keep your petition on track.

Immediate Relatives vs. Family Preference Categories

U.S. immigration law separates family-based immigrant visas into two main groups: immediate relatives and family preference categories. The difference mainly involves who qualifies and how long the wait may be.

Immediate Relatives

Immediate relatives are close family members of U.S. citizens. This group includes:

  • Spouses of U.S. citizens
  • Unmarried children under 21 of U.S. citizens
  • Parents of U.S. citizens (if the citizen is 21 or older)

There is no annual limit on visas for immediate relatives. This means a visa number is always available once the petition is approved, which usually speeds up the process.

Family Preference

Family preference categories include certain relatives of U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents. This group may include:

  • Unmarried adult sons and daughters of U.S. citizens
  • Married sons and daughters of U.S. citizens
  • Siblings of U.S. citizens
  • Spouses and unmarried children of lawful permanent residents

Family preference visas are subject to annual limits. Because only a set number are available each year, applicants may face longer waiting periods before a visa becomes available.

Comprehensive Support for Family-Based Immigration

Family-based immigration can involve more than filing one form. The process often includes petitions, financial sponsorship rules, interviews, and strict deadlines. Clear guidance can help avoid delays and support long-term family plans.

Andrew T. Thomas, Attorneys at Law, works with individuals and families across Texas to manage each step with care and organization.

We provide support with the following matters:

  • Visa Petitions and Green Cards: Preparation and filing of family-based petitions and green card applications, including required forms, supporting documents, and responses to government requests.
  • USCIS and Consular Representation: Representation before U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services and the Department of State, including preparation for interviews and responses to requests for evidence.
  • Adjustment of Status or Consular Processing: Guidance on whether adjustment of status or consular processing applies and support throughout the applicable process.
  • Removal Defense: Review of possible defenses and representation in immigration proceedings when removal issues affect a family-based case.
  • Work Authorization and Naturalization: Preparation of employment authorization applications and assistance with citizenship filings for eligible clients.
  • Humanitarian and Special Visas: Support with asylum claims, VAWA petitions, and other protective immigration options when applicable.
  • Appeals and Bond Requests: Review of unfavorable decisions, preparation of motions or appeals, and filing within required deadlines.

Every family’s situation is different. Our team reviews immigration status, the relationship to the relative being sponsored, and any prior immigration history to identify available options and next steps.

Why Choose Andrew T. Thomas, Attorneys at Law

Family immigration decisions affect future plans and family stability. Selecting legal counsel involves consideration of experience, practice focus, and communication approach.

Focused Immigration Practice

Immigration law is the primary focus of this practice. Family-based petitions, green cards, and removal matters are handled regularly, allowing attention to current filing requirements and procedural changes.

The firm has worked with a high volume of family immigration matters, including cases involving prior immigration history or eligibility concerns. Each case is reviewed to identify available legal options based on the individual circumstances.

Experience With Texas Immigration Processes

Family immigration matters in Texas are handled by specific USCIS offices and, in some cases, immigration courts. Familiarity with local filing procedures and processing practices supports more organized case preparation.

Service in the Dallas and Houston areas provides insight into how cases are processed in those regions.

Clear and Direct Communication

Immigration processes can be difficult to navigate. Information about eligibility, timelines, and possible outcomes is provided in plain language. Questions are addressed directly, and expectations are discussed at the beginning of the case. Multilingual support is available.

Our Approach to Family Immigration

Clients receive structured support throughout the process.

  • Early Case Review: Immigration history and family relationships are reviewed to identify potential issues before filing.
  • Organized Filing and Documentation: Required records, financial sponsorship forms, and supporting evidence are gathered, reviewed, and submitted for accuracy.
  • Communication with Government Agencies: Communication with USCIS, the National Visa Center, and the Department of State is handled on the client’s behalf. Responses to requests for evidence are prepared and submitted as required.
  • Interview and Medical Exam Preparation: Information is provided in advance about interview procedures and medical exam requirements.
  • Addressing Case Issues: If delays, denials, or admissibility concerns arise, available options are reviewed, including waivers or appeals when applicable.

Clients receive updates about case status and next steps throughout the process.

Call Andrew T. Thomas, Attorneys at Law, Today

Family immigration involves detailed filings, proof of eligibility, and strict deadlines. Errors or missing documentation can result in delays or denials. Legal guidance can assist with identifying appropriate options, preparing required forms, and responding to requests for evidence or interview requirements.

Andrew T. Thomas, Attorneys at Law, works with families throughout Texas who seek organized guidance through the immigration process. Schedule a consultation today to review individual circumstances and determine appropriate next steps.

Frequently Asked Questions About Family Immigration

What does a family immigration lawyer do?

A family immigration lawyer helps you and your relatives move to or stay in the United States through legal processes. They handle visa applications, green card petitions, citizenship cases, and other family-based immigration matters.

How long does it take to get a green card through family sponsorship?

The time varies based on your visa category and country of origin. Most family-based green card cases take 1 to 3 years, though some may take longer depending on visa availability and case complexity.

Can a U.S. citizen sponsor a family member who entered the country without permission?

Yes, but the process is complex. Certain family members can apply for a waiver to forgive the unlawful entry, but you need skilled legal help to navigate the requirements and avoid deportation risks.

What is the difference between a green card and citizenship?

A green card allows you to live and work in the United States as a permanent resident. Citizenship is a higher status that gives you voting rights, a U.S. passport, and full legal protection under U.S. law.

Should I hire a lawyer for my family immigration case?

Yes. Family immigration law involves strict deadlines, detailed forms, and serious consequences for mistakes. A lawyer helps you avoid errors, meet all requirements, and protect your family’s legal status.



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