Houston Family Immigration Lawyer

Comprehensive Immigration Services in Harris County

At The Law Office of Mana Yegani, immigration issues are the exclusive focus. Attorney Yegani advises and represents U.S. citizens, Lawful Permanent Residents (LPRs), non-permanent residents, and aliens with immigration issues. If you or a family member needs a family visa lawyer in Houston to assist with immigration forms or provide guidance through a legal process, Ms. Yegani can help you today. She has built a reputation with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), immigration judges, and government lawyers in Texas. Our firm's dedicated involvement in each case ensures that every client receives the attention and professional support needed to navigate the complexities of the immigration system.

Our firm regularly handles immigration cases involving:

• Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) petitions
• Same-Sex Marriage Immigration under DOMA
• Guidance on Spousal Immigration Petitions
• Adjustment of Status: Path to a Green Card
• Form I-751: Removing Conditions of Residency
• DREAM Act: DACA Immigration Assistance
• Comprehensive Immigration Solutions for Families

Our commitment goes beyond typical legal assistance; we offer a guiding hand through the immigration process, ensuring clients understand their rights and the steps involved. This comprehensive approach helps mitigate stress and confusion, providing clients with the confidence needed to move forward with their lives.

Visa Assistance & Green Card Adjustment in Houston

If you seek to help a family member or fiancé(e) gain entrance to the U.S., obtain an adjustment of status, or remove residency conditions, family-based immigration is often the best opportunity. Visas are available to immediate relatives of U.S. citizens unlimitedly, as long as the legal relationship can be proven. However, USCIS has a unique way of defining who qualifies as an immediate relative. Understanding these classifications and what it means for your family's immigration journey is crucial. As each application is unique, knowing precisely what documentation and criteria are required can streamline the application process and increase the likelihood of success.

In-Depth Family-Based Visa Classifications

There are two categories of family-based immigration:

• Immediate relatives of U.S. citizens, including spouses, unmarried children under the age of 21, and parents — unlimited visas are available annually for such relatives.
• Preference relatives include adult children, brothers and sisters of U.S. citizens, and spouses and unmarried children of lawful permanent residents (LPRs) — limited visas are available each year for such relatives.

Multiple factors influence a person's ability to obtain a family visa (family green card) and immigrate to the U.S., including age, health, country of origin, criminal history, work history, education, job skills, finances, immigration backlogs, and others. U.S. citizens and LPRs living in the U.S. or a territory may petition on behalf of (sponsor) family members wishing to immigrate. Sponsors take on financial responsibility for family members once they obtain a visa to enter the U.S. This responsibility involves significant considerations, such as providing an Affidavit of Support and verifying the financial capacity to assist family members upon their arrival, reflecting the importance of preparation and understanding in this process.

FAQs about Family Visas in Houston

What Are the Requirements for a Family Visa?

A family visa requires clear proof of a valid familial relationship, such as birth or marriage certificates. Applications often include the U.S. citizen or permanent resident petitioning for their relative, often referred to as the sponsor, who must demonstrate the financial capability to support the incoming family member(s). U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is very stringent about these requirements to prevent fraud.

What Is the Process for Removing Conditions on Residency?

Form I-751 is used to remove conditions on residency. This applies mainly to spouses who received their residency under conditional terms, typically valid for two years. To prevent loss of residency status, a petition needs to be filed within 90 days before the expiration of the conditional green card. The submission must include evidential support reflecting the continued, bona fide nature of the marriage among other requirements, aligning with USCIS expectations.

How Long Does It Take to Process a Family Visa?

The timeframe for processing a family visa can vary greatly, typically spanning anywhere from a few months to several years. This depends on the type of visa and the applicant's home country's relationship with the U.S. Immediate relatives often experience faster processing times compared to preference relatives. Keeping updated on current USCIS processing times is crucial for setting expectations accurately.

Can a Family Visa be Denied?

Yes, there are several grounds for denial, including insufficient proof of relationship, previous immigration violations, or failure to meet financial support requirements. It's important to ensure all required documentation and information are submitted accurately and completely. Consulting with an experienced family visa lawyer in Houston is beneficial in strengthening the application and identifying potential pitfalls early on.

How Does Houston's Diversity Benefit Immigrants?

Houston's diverse population fosters a supportive environment for immigrants. The presence of extensive services ranging from language classes to integration programs helps ease the transition for new arrivals. Moreover, the city's legal community is active in protecting immigrant rights, advocating for them across various forums, ensuring they gain a foothold, and facilitating positive outcomes.