The United States is a melting pot of different backgrounds and nationalities. While this is one of the most beautiful aspects of the country, it is not uncommon for families to be separated due to immigration status. Thankfully, it is possible for the immediate relatives of United States citizens to immigrate to the country and receive Lawful Permanent Resident status or conditional status based on their relationship.
Obtaining conditional visa sponsorship or permanent residency based on family relationships in the United States is often a complicated process. A Seattle immediate relative visa attorney at ZafiroLaw has the experience necessary to help families navigate the immigration process as skillfully and efficiently as possible. Through our counsel and guidance, we can help ease the stress of the visa application process and help you reunite with your family members. To learn more, consider scheduling a consultation today at (206) 547-9906.
What Is the Immediate Relative Visa?
The immediate relative visa provides a way for the family members of United States citizens to secure permanent residency in the United States. This is a form of family-based immigration, meaning visa sponsorship is available based on a close family relationship with a United States citizen. While only specific family relationships qualify for the immediate relative visa, this is a valuable option for eligible families who wish to remain in the United States long-term. When successful, this visa option results in Lawful Permanent Resident status, otherwise known as a Green Card.
What Are the Specific Types of Immediate Relative Visas?
There are different types of immediate relative visas that can be obtained, depending on the specific relationship that a person has with a United States citizen. The types of immediate relative visas can be broken down into three categories, based on the relationship between the United States citizen and foreign-national relative(s). A Seattle immediate relative visa attorney can provide a fuller understanding of the specific types of immediate relative visas.
IR-1 Visa/CR-1 Visa
The IR-1 and CR-1 visas are available for the spouses of United States citizens. Based on immigration law, a spouse is a legally wedded husband or wife. While the IR-1 and CR-1 visas are similar, they are different processes and follow different timelines. The differences between the two can be understood as:
- IR-1 Visa: This visa is available to spouses who have been married for more than two years. After successfully obtaining this visa, the IR-1 visa holder does not need to renew their permanent resident card for ten years.
- CR-1 Visa: The CR-1 visa is given on a conditional basis, meaning the Green Card lasts for a less amount of time and must be adjusted two years after the visa holder’s arrival in the United States.
IR-2 Visa
The IR-2 visa is available for the children of United States citizens who are not already Green Card holders or United States citizens themselves. As long as the child is under the age of 21 and not married, they are eligible to immigrate to the United States using this visa option. The IR-2 visa is also available for families who are adopting a child outside of the United States.
IR-5 Visa
The IR-5 visa is available for the parent or parents of a United States citizen. This option allows the foreign-born parents of a United States citizen to immigrate to the country as a Lawful Permanent Resident. This means that once the IR-5 visa has been secured, the parent or parents of the United States citizen will be permitted to work and live in the country on a permanent basis.
How Long Does an Immediate Relative Visa Take?
The timeline for securing an immediate relative visa depends on a variety of circumstances, including your relationship and the strength of your application. Speaking very generally, the average timeline for the immediate relative visa is between 5 and 9 months.
Fortunately, the immediate relative visa has a higher preference than other family-based visas. This is largely due to the fact that there are an unlimited number of visas available for the immediate relatives of United States citizens, therefore avoiding a backlog and long wait times. Working with a Seattle immediate relative visa attorney can help you avoid the common mistakes that are made during the application process, which can help avoid costly delays.
Contact an Experienced Seattle Immediate Relative Visa Attorney at ZafiroLaw
The immediate relative visa is an ideal option for close family members of United States citizens to immigrate to the United States on a permanent basis. Through this visa avenue, it is possible to pursue employment and begin a life as a family in the United States. We understand the value of this and work diligently to reunite families on American soil. To discuss your case in greater detail, consider contacting an experienced Seattle immediate relative visa attorney at ZafiroLaw today at (206) 547-9906.
