At Immigration Universe Attorneys, we see the power of family every day. Parents separated from their children for years, spouses waiting to begin their lives together, and siblings hoping to reunite in the same country, all share a common dream: to bring their loved ones home.
Family petitions are one of the most meaningful parts of U.S. immigration law because they make this dream possible. As experienced family immigration lawyers in Orlando, we know how complex this process can be, but with the right guidance, your petition can lead to a permanent reunion and a new beginning in the United States.
What Is a Family Petition for Immigration?
A family-based immigration petition allows U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents (green card holders) to sponsor certain family members to immigrate to the United States. It’s more than a form, it’s a legal bridge that connects families across borders.
The process starts when the petitioner (a U.S. citizen or resident) files Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This form establishes the qualifying relationship between the petitioner and their relative.
Once approved, the relative may apply for an immigrant visa or adjustment of status to become a lawful permanent resident.
Immediate Relatives vs. Family Preference Categories
Not all family petitions are the same. USCIS divides them into two main categories, each with different processing times and visa availability.
| Category | Eligible Relatives | Visa Availability | Approximate Wait Time (2025) |
| Immediate Relatives | Spouses of U.S. citizens, unmarried children under 21, parents of U.S. citizens (21+) | No annual cap | 12–18 months |
| Family Preference | Adult children (married/unmarried), siblings of U.S. citizens, spouses and children of green card holders | Limited annual quota | 2–15 years |
Immediate relatives benefit from shorter waiting periods, while family preference petitions may take several years depending on the visa bulletin and the applicant’s country of origin.
How to File a Family-Based Petition (Form I-130)
The process can be emotionally and legally complex, but with proper preparation, you can increase your chances of approval.
Steps to file a family petition:
- Determine eligibility – Confirm that you are a U.S. citizen or permanent resident and that your relationship qualifies.
- Gather documentation – Prepare identity documents, proof of relationship, financial records, and prior immigration history.
- Complete Form I-130 – File with USCIS along with required fees and evidence.
- Receive USCIS receipt notice – This confirms that your case is in process.
- Respond to Requests for Evidence (if applicable) – Provide additional documents promptly to avoid delays.
- Wait for approval and visa availability – Depending on the category, your case may move to the National Visa Center (NVC) or remain pending until a visa number is available.
📋 Documents Commonly Required
- Birth and marriage certificates
- Proof of U.S. citizenship or permanent residency
- Joint financial statements (for spouses)
- Photos and correspondence showing family relationship
- Affidavit of Support (Form I-864)
- Divorce or death certificates (if applicable)
Common Challenges During the Petition Process
Even a simple family petition can face unexpected obstacles. Common issues include:
- Missing or inconsistent documentation
- Long waiting times under family preference categories
- Previous visa overstays or unlawful presence
- Miscommunication with USCIS or the NVC
These challenges can be overwhelming for families handling petitions on their own. That’s why many clients choose to work with an experienced immigration attorney who ensures the petition is complete, accurate, and supported by strong evidence from the start.
The Benefits of Family Immigration Petitions
Family petitions not only open the door to lawful permanent residence but also bring profound emotional and practical benefits.
Legal and personal advantages include:
- The right to live and work permanently in the U.S.
- Access to education, healthcare, and other benefits
- A pathway to citizenship after meeting eligibility requirements
- Family stability and reunification
- Peace of mind knowing your loved ones are together and secure
When families reunite, they build stronger communities. That’s why this process is at the heart of everything we do at Immigration Universe.
Why Work With an Immigration Universe Attorney
At Immigration Universe Attorneys, we know that immigration is more than paperwork, it’s about people. Led by Attorney Ileana Rivera, our team brings over a decade of experience in U.S. immigration law and a deep commitment to helping families stay together.
Here’s why families across Orlando and Central Florida trust us:
- Personalized legal strategy: Every case is reviewed directly by Attorney Rivera.
- Full bilingual service: We assist clients in English, Spanish, and Portuguese.
- Transparent communication: We keep you informed every step of the way.
- Proven experience: We’ve guided hundreds of families through petitions, waivers, and adjustments of status.
“Our mission is to give families hope through honest and effective legal guidance,” says Attorney Rivera. “Every approved petition means a home reunited and a dream fulfilled.”
Learn more about our full range of services here: Immigration Services
How Long Does the Family Petition Process Take?
Processing times depend on several factors, including the family category, USCIS workload, and the petitioner’s status.
Average timelines:
- Immediate relatives of U.S. citizens: 12–18 months
- Spouses and children of green card holders: 2–5 years
- Siblings of U.S. citizens: 10–15 years
For accurate updates, always check the latest USCIS Visa Bulletin or consult with your immigration attorney for category-specific guidance.
Schedule a Consultation Today
If you’re ready to reunite with your family, don’t navigate this journey alone. Our Orlando-based team is here to help you understand your options, gather the right documentation, and guide you through every stage of your petition.
Phone: +1 (407) 818-1244
Email: service@immigration-uni.com
Address: 7901 Kingspointe Blvd, Ste. 8, Orlando, FL 32819
WhatsApp: +1 (407) 720-8983
Let us help you bring your family home. Contact us today to schedule your consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Who can file a family-based immigration petition?
U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents can petition certain family members, such as spouses, children, parents, and siblings, to obtain permanent residency in the United States. - How long does it take to get a family petition approved?
Immediate relatives typically wait about one year, while family preference petitions may take several years depending on category and country of origin. - What documents are needed for a family petition?
You’ll need identity documents, proof of relationship (such as marriage or birth certificates), and financial evidence to support your relative. - Can I file a family petition without a lawyer?
Yes, but errors or missing documents can cause costly delays. Working with a qualified immigration attorney helps you avoid mistakes and ensures your petition is handled correctly. - Where can I find reliable help with my family petition?
Contact Immigration Universe Attorneys in Orlando for personalized legal guidance. Our experienced team will walk you through every step of the process.
