Becoming a U.S. citizen allows you to help close family members obtain lawful permanent residence. At Dominguez Law Firm, we assist individuals across Florida who wish to bring parents or siblings to the United States through family-based immigration. While both groups are eligible, the rules that apply to each are very different. Parents benefit from a faster process as immediate relatives, while siblings fall under the family preference system, which involves long wait times and limited visa availability. Understanding how these categories work is essential before beginning the petition process.
If you are a U.S. citizen who is at least 21 years old, you can file a petition for your mother or father. These cases benefit from faster processing because annual visa quotas do not restrict them.
To begin, you must submit Form I-130, along with evidence of your U.S. citizenship and proof of the parent-child relationship. Your parent must also undergo a medical exam, attend an interview, and be admissible under U.S. immigration law. According to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, immediate relatives do not face the same backlog that other family categories do.
Many families seek support from a legal representative with experience in family-based petitions to ensure the process is completed accurately and without delay. Errors in documentation or missed deadlines can prolong the process or lead to denial.
Petitioning for a sibling is more challenging due to the limits placed on this category. Siblings fall under the F4 family preference category, which includes brothers and sisters of U.S. citizens aged 21 and older. Because demand for these visas far exceeds supply, the wait can span over a decade, depending on the country of origin.
To begin, the U.S. citizen must file Form I-130 and submit supporting documents, including proof of both parties’ relationship and their respective citizenship. The priority date, or the date the petition is filed, determines the sibling’s place in the queue. The Visa Bulletin published by the U.S. Department of State updates these timelines monthly.
Given the wait time and the stakes involved, many individuals work closely with an immigration lawyer focused on long-term family immigration strategies. It is essential to monitor timelines, gather proper documentation, and remain informed throughout the process.
Both processes require careful attention to legal and procedural requirements. For example, if a parent entered the U.S. unlawfully or overstayed a visa, the method may involve additional waivers or consular processing abroad. Similarly, in sibling cases, any errors in establishing a legal sibling relationship, such as half-siblings or adopted siblings, can lead to delays or denials.
Working with a family immigration attorney in Florida helps avoid these issues. Our firm routinely handles family-based petitions and prepares clients for interviews, document collection, and long-term expectations. For personalized guidance tailored to your family’s situation, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with our team today.
Green card holders cannot petition for parents or siblings. Only U.S. citizens are eligible to file for these relatives. Lawful permanent residents can only petition for spouses and unmarried children. For those who have yet to naturalize, working with an immigration attorney to complete the citizenship process may be a critical first step before petitioning for family members.
Our firm also assists clients in preparing for the naturalization process, helping ensure they meet eligibility requirements and timelines before sponsoring relatives.
Timing is crucial. For parents, starting early ensures their green card is processed quickly. For siblings, the earlier the petition is filed, the sooner they enter the priority queue. Given that F4 wait times can extend for 15 to 20 years in some cases, filing the I-130 promptly is essential, even if your sibling is not yet ready to immigrate.
Many families start by consulting a family immigration attorney, who can assess eligibility, discuss timelines, and outline the best approach. For urgent questions or concerns regarding deportation involving family members, our team also provides support in appeals and removal cases.
Reuniting with your parents or siblings through U.S. immigration law is possible, but understanding the category they fall into makes all the difference. At Dominguez Law Firm, we assist families across Florida in pursuing immigration solutions that align with their goals and timelines. Whether filing for a parent under the immediate relative category or managing the longer sibling process, our firm provides clear legal guidance every step of the way. For assistance with starting your petition, please contact us today. Let our team provide the support your family needs to move forward with confidence.