Family Immigration Lawyer In San Antonio

San Antonio Immigration Lawyer For Family-Based Immigration Visas

The family immigration lawyers at Lozano Law Firm in San Antonio help individuals and families in San Antonio, San Angelo, Eagle Pass and Laredo find the right family-based visa to bring families together and put them on the path to citizenship. As a certified immigration lawyer, firm founder and principal attorney Alfredo Lozano has the knowledge, skills, and determination to make sure your Visa application is properly prepared and timely filed. Perhaps no aspect of immigration of law is more satisfying than helping to establish or reunite families, and Lozano Law Firm is with you every step of they with expert advice and assistance.

Family immigration has a significant role in facilitating reunification and unity with your loved ones. The 2020 Annual Flow Report of the Department of Homeland Security proves this. It shows that 63% of all lawful permanent residents in the United States come from family relationships. However, the family immigration process can be overwhelming due to its complexity and ever-changing legal landscape. In this situation, a family immigration attorney can help by guiding you every step of the way.

Delivering Comprehensive Immigration Services To Texas Families

As a first generation immigrant, Alfredo Lozano understands the challenges that you and your family face. For this reason, he’s dedicated his legal practice to serving immigrants and helping them achieve their dreams of legal permanent residency and family reunification.

Our comprehensive immigration law practice covers all aspects of family-based immigration matters, including the following:

In addition, we help noncitizens who have been the victim of domestic violence to obtain lawful permanent residence under the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) or to obtain legal status through a U Visa. With our assistance, battered women can “self-petition” without the knowledge of the abusive spouse and find a safe home in the U.S.

Our family immigration lawyers also look out for the interests of minor children who “age out” before their application is processed by invoking the complex procedures of the Child Status Protection Act (CSPA) where appropriate. For DREAMers, we have dedicated an entire website — www.DreamersAction.com — to providing advice and representation through the process for deferred action.
Reasons To Hire A Family Immigration Attorney

With immigration attorneys’ extensive experience, they offer comprehensive assistance to clients by analyzing cases thoroughly. They can walk through requirements and options with each client so that they can make well-informed decisions.

One of the primary responsibilities of a family immigration lawyer is to ensure strict compliance with immigration regulations. They stay up-to-date with dynamic legal developments. They also inform clients of any changes that may impact their cases.

By meeting all legal requirements and deadlines, an immigrant attorney maximizes the chances of successful results. They reduce the risk of delays or denials. As a result, expedited applications and petitions speed up family reunification and save time and money.

The Benefits Of Having A Legal Support

An immigration lawyer advocates for clients’ rights, challenging unfair decisions and ensuring fair consideration. As experienced negotiators and litigators, they represent clients in various immigration proceedings.

Beyond legal matters, they offer compassionate support, addressing the emotional toll of proceedings. Tackling unique challenges, they tailor strategies to overcome obstacles and ensure timely compliance with crucial deadlines.

Immigration attorneys maximize approval chances by presenting compelling arguments that resonate with decision-makers. They bridge language and cultural barriers, fostering effective communication with diverse clients. Empowering clients with knowledge about rights, responsibilities, and options enables active participation in their cases.

Grow, Expand Or Reunite Your Family With Relative Visas

There are many different ways to obtain lawful permanent residency through a family-based immigrant Visa. An individual in the U.S. can bring over a spouse and unmarried children by filing a Petition for Alien Relative, although the length of the process is typically longer when the sponsoring family member is a lawful permanent resident as opposed to a U.S. citizen.

We also help U.S. citizens bring over their parents, adult children, and siblings and help the new arrivals obtain their Green Card through adjustment of status or consular processing.

Navigating Key Aspects Of Family-Based Immigration

Family immigration is a legal area that encompasses many different processes. It includes applying for citizenship, obtaining family-based Visas, adjusting one’s immigration status, and applying for military parole. An immigration attorney can provide invaluable assistance to make the process smooth and easy.

Citizenship & Naturalization

One of the primary roles of an immigration lawyer is to assist clients with citizenship applications. They help fill out the necessary forms, gather required documents, and prepare clients for interviews and tests. With extensive knowledge and skills, they cover all aspects before filing your family immigration application.

In addition, family immigration attorneys can navigate any complications that may arise, such as criminal records or previous immigration violations, and provide advice on how to solve these issues best. The process of obtaining U.S. citizenship involves several steps and has specific requirements.First, applicants must have a lawful permanent resident status for at least five years (or three years if married to a U.S. citizen). They should have lived in the United States continuously, demonstrated an excellent moral character, had a basic knowledge of U.S. history and government, and could read, write, and speak English.

After fulfilling these requirements, they can file Form N-400, Application for Naturalization. A family immigration lawyer can help review this form to ensure accuracy and completeness, as errors can result in delays or denial.

Green Card & Family-Based Visas

Immigration attorneys aid in Green Card applications through family sponsorship. The primary family-based immigrant Visas are immediate relative (IR) and family preference (F). On one hand, IR Visas are available to spouses, unmarried children under 21, and parents of U.S. citizens. On the other hand, F Visas apply to more distant relatives.

For a family-sponsored Green Card, the U.S. citizen or permanent resident sponsor must file Form I-130 Petition for Alien Relative. Once the petition is approved and a Visa is available, the foreign relative can apply for an Immigrant Visa if they’re abroad. Or they can adjust their status if they’re already in the United States.

Eligibility for a family-sponsored Green Card depends on the family relationship with the U.S. citizen or permanent resident sponsor. It also contributes their country of origin. Some other factors, such as the sponsor’s income and the immigrant’s health, criminal history, and immigration history, can also impact eligibility.

Adjustment Of Status

Adjustment of status is a process that allows an eligible applicant to become a lawful permanent resident of the United States. They go through this process if they are already living in the country. A family immigration lawyer can guide clients through this often complex process.

Eligibility for adjustment of status generally requires the applicants to be physically present in the United States. They must have an approved Visa petition, such as the Form I-130. These family based immigrant Visas are immediately available when they file their applications.

In addition, they should not have entered the country with lawful permanent resident status. They must not violate the terms of their current status nor be inadmissible on grounds such as certain criminal convictions or health conditions. Once eligible, the applicant must file Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status.

Military Parole In Place

Military Parole in Place (PIP) permits certain undocumented family members of U.S. military personnel to stay in the country temporarily. This provision significantly aids in stabilizing the lives of military families during service or deployment periods.

Obtaining PIP involves carefully evaluating eligibility, preparing and filing necessary forms, such as Form I-131, and handling any arising legal complexities. A family immigration lawyer plays a crucial role in all these steps. They can assess eligibility, check documentation, and liaise with United States Citizenship and Immigration Services USCIS.

Further, they can also cooperate with military officials and manage any unforeseen legal hurdles. Thus, they ensure a smoother and more efficient application process.

Factors Affecting Family Immigration Applications

Considering factors affecting family immigration applications is crucial to ensure fair, efficient, and informed decisions. Economic stability, cultural adaptation, social support, and legal requirements impact applicants’ integration and well-being. These shape their lives and the country’s societal cohesion.

Country Of Origin

The applicant’s home country can impact the immigration process as U.S. immigration laws have provisions that differ based on the country of origin. For instance, certain countries face annual per-country Visa limitations, which can result in more extended waiting periods.

Family Relationships

The nature of the applicant’s relationship to a U.S. citizen or a permanent resident affects their immigration process. Immediate relatives of U.S. citizens (spouses, unmarried children under 21, and parents) generally have a more straightforward path to immigration than distant relatives.

Criminal History

A criminal record, particularly for crimes of moral turpitude or drug offenses, can lead to difficulties during the immigration process. You may encounter hurdles, including Visa denial or deportation. Getting the services of an immigrant attorney can give you hope of living in the United States permanently.

Health Conditions

Certain health conditions, like contagious diseases or missing required vaccinations, can make an applicant inadmissible. Health conditions influence immigration applications due to potential strain on the country’s healthcare, economic resources, and applicants’ ability to contribute. It ensures sustainable integration and public health protection.

Financial Stability

Immigration authorities evaluate the U.S. sponsor’s financial stability to ensure the applicant won’t become a public charge. Financial stability impacts immigration applications as it demonstrates the ability to support oneself and prevent reliance on social services. It assures self-sufficiency and contributes positively to the host country’s economy.

Immigration History

Immigration history affects applications by reflecting compliance with previous Visas, legal status, and potential risks. It informs decisions, ensuring security, adherence to immigration law, and eligibility for new opportunities. Remember, past violations, such as overstaying or illegal entry to the United States, impact eligibility.

Case Assessment

Family immigration attorneys conduct an exhaustive analysis of the client’s case, considering aspects such as immigration history, financial situation, health status, and familial ties in the United States. Their experience enables them to anticipate potential challenges and prepare accordingly.

Potential Challenges

Immigration lawyers guide clients in developing strategies to counter potential challenges. They may include advising on proving financial stability, seeking a joint sponsor, or exploring waivers for criminal history or previous immigration violations.

Lozano Law Firm Supports Family Immigration

Working with a family immigration lawyer at Lozano Law Firm has numerous benefits. It includes alleviating stress and confusion associated with the complex nature of immigration processes. An attorney simplifies these complexities by providing explanations of precise, understandable legal terminologies and procedures.

Further, they guide clients through the process, ensuring all procedures are accurately followed and avoiding potential pitfalls. They are also indispensable for ensuring the accurate and timely completion of immigration paperwork.

Even minor errors can lead to significant delays or denials, so an attorney’s experience can avert such outcomes.

In addition, keeping clients informed about their case’s progress is crucial to their work. Lozano Law Firm assists in immigration concerns for families. Their experience in family-based immigration will prove valuable for those bringing their family members to the country.

We Can Help You Bring Your Immediate Relatives To The United States

Your immigration status will help determine who you can sponsor for a Green Card and how quickly they will get it.

U.S. citizen: can bring the widest variety of family members into the United States. However, immediate family members will get their visas the most quickly. You can request an immediate family member visa for your spouse, unmarried children under the age of 21, orphans you are adopting, and your parents (if you are over the age of 21). The U.S. government does not limit the number of immediate family member visas it gives to citizens’ close relatives.
Legal permanent resident: you can request a visa for your spouse or unmarried children. However, the government limits the number of family members green card holders can bring into the U.S. each year.
Refugees and asylees: you can request a visa for your spouse or unmarried children under the age of 21. However, you must file on their behalf within two years of getting your refugee or asylee status.

If you’re not sure whether your loved ones qualify for a family-based Visa, contact Lozano Law Firm for a no-risk, confidential consultation. An experienced family immigration lawyer will learn about your situation and then help you understand your legal options. We can also help you file all of the necessary paperwork and guide you through the complicated process of family reunification.

I’m A U.S. Citizen. Can I Request A Visa For My Siblings, Adult Children & Other Family Members?

U.S. Citizens can ask the Government for family-based Visas for many of their family members. However, unless the individual is an immediate family member, they might have to wait years before it is approved. The United States strictly limits the number of family-based Visas it distributes each year. Annually, it offers the following:

23,400 Visas for the unmarried sons and daughters of U.S. citizens (your unmarried child’s minor children are also included in this group)
23,400 Visas for your married children, their spouses, and their children
65,000 Visas for your siblings, their spouses, and their minor children

Due to intense demand, the annual number of petitions typically exceeds the number of available Visas. When this happens, the government issues Visas to eligible family members in chronological order. Your petition filing date becomes your “priority date,” which will determine when your loved ones will get their visas. To determine when your loved ones will get their Visas, you can refer to the State Department’s Visa bulletin or contact an experienced family immigration lawyer. To request a consultation with a skilled family immigration lawyer, simply contact Lozano Law Firm.

I Have A Green Card. When Will My Immediate Family Members Get A Visa?

Each year, about 77% of the U.S. Government’s family-based Visas go to Green Card holders’ spouses and unmarried children. However, no more than 114,200 people can get these visas each year. Again, demand almost always outweighs the supply of available Visas. It might take years to get a response.

However, you shouldn’t wait to apply for your family members. Your petition filing date becomes your relatives’ priority date, which will determine exactly when their Visas will become available. The sooner you file, the sooner they’ll get their legal immigration status. For more information about family-based Visas for Green Card holders, call an experienced family immigration lawyer at Lozano Law Firm.

Can I Bring My Fiancé To The United States?

Fiancé Visas are only available to U.S. citizens. If your intended spouse is a foreign national, you can apply for a K-1 Visa (the Fiancé Visa) if you intend to marry and live in the United States. Once your fiancé arrives, you must marry within 90 days — otherwise, they will lose their legal immigration status. You also must prove that you are both legally permitted to marry and that you have physically seen each other in the past two years.

Once you get married, your new spouse can convert their K-1 Visa into a Green Card, giving them permanent legal residency within the United States. Eventually, they can become U.S. citizens, if that is their wish.

While the process might sound relatively simple, it can quickly become complicated. If you and your fiancé are ready to start your lives together in the United States, it’s in your best interest to consult with a family immigration lawyer before you start the visa process. An attorney can help ensure that your documentation is submitted properly, as well as help you avoid unnecessary delays.

Is The Government Going To Stop Family-Based Immigration?

Recently, certain Government officials have voiced “concerns” about family-based immigration or “chain migration.” However, the reality is that most American families relied on family-based Visas to get here. As of today, there haven’t been any changes made to the United States’ family immigration policies — it’s just been chatter.

Immigration laws change quickly, especially in the current political climate. For the most up-to-date information about U.S. Visa policies, contact a family immigration lawyer. At Lozano Law Firm, we carefully monitor every development in U.S. immigration law and we also do our best to keep our clients informed and empowered. However, if you have concerns, never hesitate to call us.

Help For Your Family-Based Immigration Matter From A Certified Family Immigration Lawyer

Many aspects of family-based immigration law are incredibly complex and complicated, and wait times for certain family members can also be heartbreaking. Trust your family immigration matter to a Board-Certified Texas immigration lawyer with years of experience bringing families together through the immigration process. In San Antonio, San Angelo, Eagle Pass, and Laredo, contact Lozano Law Firm for assistance.