Everything You Need to Know About Family-Based Green Cards

If you’re looking to reunite with a loved one in the United States or help a family member obtain lawful permanent residency, the family-based green card process is one of the most common — and meaningful — immigration pathways. At Maimone Legal, we’re here to guide you every step of the way, from petition to approval, so you don’t miss a step or deadline. Whether you’re sponsoring a spouse, fiancé(e), parent, child, or sibling, here’s what you need to know to get started.

Who Qualifies for a Family-Based Green Card?

U.S. Citizens can petition for:
● Spouses
● Children (under 21)
● Unmarried adult children (over 21)
● Married adult children
● Siblings
● Parents (if the petitioner is over 21)

Green Card Holders (Permanent Residents) can petition for:
● Spouses
● Unmarried children (of any age)Where to Start

Step 1: File Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative)
● This is the first step in proving the family relationship. The petitioner (U.S. citizen or permanent resident) must file this form with USCIS.

Step 2: Wait for Approval & Visa Availability
● Immediate relatives (spouses, parents, children under 21 of U.S. citizens) have no wait for visa availability.
● Other family categories may face wait times based on annual visa caps.

Step 3: Adjustment of Status or Consular Processing
● If your relative is already in the U.S., they may be eligible to adjust status (Form I-485).
● If they are outside the U.S., they will complete the green card process at a U.S. consulate abroad.

Required Documents
● Proof of relationship (e.g., marriage or birth certificates)
● Proof of petitioner’s citizenship or permanent residency
● Financial support documents (Form I-864, Affidavit of Support)
● Identity documents (passport, photos, government-issued ID)
● Additional civil documents (varies by country)

Timeline Overview
● I-130 Processing: 7–12 months on average
● Visa Bulletin Wait (for non-immediate relatives): Varies
●Consular Processing / Adjustment of Status: Additional 6–12 months
● Total Estimated Time: 12–24+ months depending on category and circumstances

How Maimone Legal Can Help
The process may seem straightforward, but the details matter. Missing paperwork, incorrect evidence, or delays in communication can slow down or jeopardize your case. At Maimone Legal, we offer:
● Personalized guidance on eligibility
● Document collection checklists and review
● Timely petition filing and case monitoring
● Interview preparation and ongoing support
● Clear explanations on timelines and expectations
From your first consultation to green card approval, our experienced team ensures no step is missed and
your loved one’s journey to the U.S. is handled with care and attention.

Get Started with Confidence
If you’re ready to sponsor a family member or are unsure where to begin, our team is here to support you.

Book a call with us at https://calendly.com/maimone-legal-intake-team/initial-consultation to begin the process. You can also visit

www.movetotheusa.ca for more information and resources.

Disclaimer: This checklist is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. To

receive guidance tailored to your specific case, please contact Maimone Legal directly.