Family-Based Immigration in Georgia: A Step-by-Step Guide

Family-based immigration in Georgia is an essential avenue for U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents to reunite with their family members from abroad. This process allows eligible relatives to obtain visas or green cards, granting them the right to reside in the United States. Understanding the step-by-step procedure can make this journey smoother and more manageable.

Step 1: Determine Eligibility

The first step in family-based immigration is to determine your eligibility as a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident. Only certain relatives qualify for family-based immigration:

• Spouses
• Children (unmarried and under 21)
• Parents (if you are a U.S. citizen)
• Siblings (if you are a U.S. citizen)
• Married children (if you are a U.S. citizen)

It’s crucial to note that the relationship must be documented through legal means, such as marriage certificates or birth certificates.

Step 2: File Form I-130

Once eligibility is confirmed, the next step is to file Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative. This form establishes your relationship with the relative you wish to bring to the U.S. You must submit the following with the application:

• Proof of your U.S. status (U.S. citizenship or green card)
• Evidence of the family relationship (marriage or birth certificates)
• Filing fee (check the latest fee amount on the USCIS website)

After filing, you will receive a receipt notice from USCIS, and you can track the status of your petition online.

Step 3: Await Approval

The processing time for Form I-130 can vary significantly, typically ranging from a few months to over a year. Once approved, you will receive a notice indicating that your petition is now in the queue for visa processing at the National Visa Center (NVC) if the relative is outside the U.S.

Step 4: NVC Processing

If your relative is outside the U.S., the NVC will contact you with instructions on how to proceed. This involves:

• Paying additional fees
• Submitting Form DS-260, the Online Immigrant Visa Application
• Providing civil documents (such as birth certificates and police certificates)

The NVC will schedule an interview for your relative at the U.S. embassy or consulate in their home country once all documents are approved.

Step 5: The Consular Interview

Your relative will attend a consular interview where they must present all required documentation and answer questions regarding their eligibility. It is essential to prepare them for the interview, as the consular officer will evaluate their ties to their home country and overall eligibility for a visa.

Step 6: Visa Issuance

If the consular officer approves the visa application, your relative will receive their visa to enter the U.S. They should review the visa to ensure all details are correct before traveling.

Step 7: Entering the U.S. and Adjustment of Status

Upon arriving in the U.S., your relative must present their visa and supporting documents to the Customs and Border Protection (CBP) at the port of entry. Once admitted, if the relative is eligible, they can apply for adjustment of status to become a lawful permanent resident by filing Form I-485.

Conclusion

Family-based immigration can be a complex process, but understanding the steps involved can significantly ease the journey. Ensure you keep thorough records of all documents and maintain communication with relevant immigration authorities throughout the process to achieve a successful outcome.