Did you know that your family member can still be eligible for a Green Card even if they entered the U.S. illegally or overstayed their visa?  It is possible!  But the process is not simple and you should consult with a knowledgeable attorney before filing any immigration petitions or waivers for individuals who entered illegally or are no longer in valid immigration status.

Call 540-300-2991 to schedule a consultation with an experienced immigration attorney.

Spiller-Reddick Immigration Law can help you with all of your immigration needs. 

In October, immigrant visas were current for F2A (Spouses and Children of lawful permanent residents) from ALL countries.  For the first time, in a long time, the family immigration process was equal for both family members of lawful permanent residents (Green Card holders) and family members of US citizens.  

You see, immediate relatives of US citizens can apply for a Green Card immediately.  But usually, family members of Green Card holders will have to wait (sometimes 1,2, or even 10 years) before they are eligible to apply for their own Green Card.  

So, last month everything was equal, but sadly, we are sliding back into the way things were.  Now in November, if you have a Green Card and want to help your Spouse or Child apply for their own Green Card, you must have started the process back in September (i.e. filed the I-130, Alien Relative Petition, in September to apply for a Green Card in November).    

The process can be tricky.  Make sure that you talk to a good immigration attorney.  Spiller-Reddick Immigration Law is here to help you with all of your immigration needs.  Call today for an appointment: 540-300-2991.  You can also email:  [email protected]
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An immediate relative is not always what you think it is.  For immigration purposes, an immediate relative is as follows:

Parent, Spouse, or Children (unmarried and under the age of 21) of a U.S. citizen. 

Immediate relatives are NOT the Parents, Spouses, or Children (any age) of lawful permanent residents.

Immediate relatives often find themselves in a better position when it comes to Green Card applications and possible inadmissiblity issues.  For example, it is unnecessary to check the Department of State Visa Bulletin to determine immigrant visa availability for immediate relatives; an immigrant visa is always available for immediate relatives.  And sticky situations like unauthorized employment and overstaying your visa are, by matter of practice, overlooked for relatives of U.S. citizens.  So, depending on the circumstances, it just may be better for a lawful permanent resident to wait until they become a naturalized U.S. citizen before filing for family members.

If you are a lawful permanent resident or U.S. citizen, and would like to start the family-based immigration process, contact Spiller-Reddick Immigration Law now to schedule an appointment (540-300-2991).