Family Petitions in Wisconsin

At Wisconsin Immigration Law Group, we specialize in helping families in Sheboygan, Wisconsin and surrounding areas such as Sheboygan, Manitowoc, Calumet, Fond du Lac, Washington, Ozaukee successfully navigate the family petition process. Our dedicated team of immigration attorneys understands the importance of family unity and works diligently to help clients reunite with their loved ones through expert guidance and personalized immigration services.

Understanding Family Petitions

Family petitions enable U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents in Wisconsin and neighboring cities to sponsor their family members for immigration to the United States. This process is central to keeping families together and allowing loved ones to build their futures in Wisconsin and beyond.

Who Can File a Family Petition?

Family-based immigration includes two primary categories:

Immediate Relatives

Immediate relatives eligible for petitions include:

• Spouses of U.S. citizens
• Unmarried children under 21 of U.S. citizens
• Parents of U.S. citizens aged 21 or older

Immediate relatives benefit from unlimited visa availability, ensuring quicker processing times.

Family Preference Categories

These categories are subject to annual limits and include:

• F1: Unmarried adult children (21+) of U.S. citizens
• F2A: Spouses and unmarried children under 21 of permanent residents
• F2B: Unmarried adult children of permanent residents
• F3: Married children of U.S. citizens
• F4: Siblings of U.S. citizens aged 21 or older

Each category has varying wait times depending on visa availability.

How to File a Family Petition in Wisconsin

Step 1: File Form I-130

The initial step involves filing Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This petition confirms the family relationship between the petitioner and beneficiary.

Step 2: Collect Supporting Documentation

Essential documentation includes:

• Proof of your U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent resident status (passport, birth certificate, naturalization certificate)
• Evidence confirming the family relationship (marriage certificates, birth certificates, adoption decrees)
• Documentation of any legal name changes

Step 3: USCIS Petition Review

USCIS will thoroughly review your petition. Approval moves the petition forward to the National Visa Center (NVC) for visa processing or USCIS for adjustment of status if the family member resides in the U.S.

Step 4: Visa Processing or Adjustment of Status

Beneficiaries abroad complete visa processing at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate. Beneficiaries residing legally in Sheboygan, Fond du Lac, Washington, Ozaukee or other parts of the U.S. can adjust their status domestically by submitting Form I-485.

Family Petition Processing Times in Wisconsin

Processing timelines vary significantly:

• Immediate relatives usually see processing within 6-12 months.
• Preference categories, particularly for married children and siblings, may require several years due to visa quotas.

Common Challenges in Family Petitions

• Incorrect or incomplete forms: Mistakes delay the petition process.
• Insufficient supporting documents: Proper evidence of the family relationship is crucial.
• Visa number availability: Waiting times depend on annual quotas.

Advantages of Choosing Wisconsin Immigration Law Group

Our experienced immigration attorneys at Wisconsin Immigration Law Group offer:

• Expertise in preparing comprehensive documentation
• Guidance to avoid common pitfalls
• Representation and communication with USCIS and NVC
• Personalized, local support in Sheboygan, Fond du Lac, Washington, Ozaukee and other surrounding Wisconsin communities

Serving Sheboygan, WI, and Surrounding Areas

Wisconsin Immigration Law Group proudly serves families throughout Wisconsin, including Sheboygan, Manitowoc, Calumet, Fond du Lac, Washington, Ozaukee, and other surrounding cities. We understand the unique immigration needs of our local community and strive to provide effective, compassionate legal support.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the cost of filing a family petition?

Form I-130 filing fee is currently $535. Additional costs include visa processing, medical examinations, and related expenses.

Can I expedite my family petition?

Expedited processing is considered in urgent humanitarian or severe financial hardship cases with adequate supporting documentation.

What happens once my petition is approved?

After approval, the beneficiary applies for an immigrant visa through consular processing or adjusts their status if currently residing legally in the U.S.

Get Expert Assistance with Family Petitions in Sheboygan, WI

Wisconsin Immigration Law Group is dedicated to helping you successfully navigate the complexities of family-based immigration. Contact our Wisconsin office today for personalized assistance, ensuring a smoother path toward reuniting with your family.