Do you want to bring your family to the US as soon as possible? It's a good goal, however you cannot sponsor someone for immigration benefits using Form I-94 (Arrival/Departure Record). Form I-94 is a necessary record of a person's authorised stay in the United States, although it is not capable of sponsoring or petitioning. To be reunited with your family in the US, you must instead traverse the convoluted world of family-based immigration procedures.

Family-Based Immigration: An Overview

The cornerstone of American immigration law is family-based immigration, which enables citizens and legal permanent residents (those who have green cards) to apply for immigration benefits on behalf of specific members of their families. Depending on the familial tie and the type of immigration benefit, the procedure include submitting the proper petitions or applications.

1. Immediate Family Members of Americans

Americans can apply for green cards (lawful permanent residency) on behalf of their closest family members, including spouses, unmarried children under 21, and parents. On behalf of the family member, a Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, is often filed to start this procedure.

2. Categories of Family Preferences

Some family members may be sponsored in priority categories by both U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents. Unmarried adult children, married adult children, and siblings are some of these types. The Form I-130 must be submitted for this procedure, much like the immediate related category.

3. Visas for fiancés

You can apply for a K-1 visa if you're a U.S. citizen engaged to a foreign national so they can come to the US to get married. To start this procedure, a Form I-129F, Petition for Alien Fiancé(e), must be submitted.

4. Green Cards based on marriage

Green card holders and U.S. citizens can both sponsor their spouses for green cards. A Form I-130 and, if qualified, a Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, must be submitted in this case.

5. Additional Family-Related Category

In addition to these popular categories, there are numerous other family-based immigration categories, each with unique eligibility criteria and petitioning procedures.

The Process' Complicatedness

The family-based immigration procedure can be difficult to navigate because eligibility standards change depending on the kind of immigration and the relationship between family members. It's crucial to speak with an expert immigration attorney or request advice from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to make sure you follow the right steps and supply all required papers.

Keep in mind that sponsoring family members for immigration benefits does not involve Form I-94. Its main objective is to provide evidence of a person's entry and permitted stay in the country. The process of moving your family to the United States may seem difficult, but by following the right steps and getting expert advice, you can make it go more smoothly and improve your chances of success.