Permanent immigration is the ultimate goal for many individuals entering or planning to enter the United States. Lawful permanent residency offers numerous benefits, including the freedom to live and work permanently in the U.S. Potential immigrants should be as informed as possible about applicable laws. That’s why our firm is dedicated to providing a comprehensive online database of immigration information.
Immigrants to the United States are divided into two categories:
1. Individuals who may acquire permanent residency without numerical limitations
2. Individuals subject to annual numerical limits, which fall into three categories: family-based, employment-based, and diversity immigrants
Family-based immigration green cards fall into two primary categories: unlimited and limited.
The spouse, widow(er), and unmarried children under 21 of a U.S. citizen, as well as the parent of a U.S. citizen who is 21 or older. Unlike most other immigrant categories, Immediate Relatives are not subject to numerical limits under immigration law.
Unmarried sons and daughters of U.S. citizens, and their children, if any. (23,400 visas per year).
pouses, minor children, and unmarried sons and daughters (over age 20) of lawful permanent residents. (114,200 visas per year).
At least 77% of all visas in this category are allocated to spouses and children; the remainder is reserved for unmarried adult sons and daughters.
Married sons and daughters of U.S. citizens, and their spouses and children. (23,400 visas per year).
Brothers and sisters of U.S. citizens, and their spouses and children, provided the U.S. citizen sponsor is at least 21 years old. (65,000 visas per year).
If you wish to become a lawful permanent resident based on your relationship to a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident, your relative must sponsor you and demonstrate sufficient income or assets to support you in the U.S.
Your sponsoring relative must file a Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, with U.S.
Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
Most sponsors must complete Form I-864, Affidavit of Support, to prove their
financial ability and take legal responsibility for supporting the intending immigrant.
After USCIS approves the petition, the intending immigrant will apply for an
immigrant visa or adjustment of status, depending on whether they are applying from outside or within the U.S.
No, hiring a lawyer is not mandatory, and some individuals successfully file on their own. However, if your case is complex or you are unsure about the process, an immigration lawyer can help avoid costly mistakes. We've seen many clients lose their cases due to avoidable errors or traveling at the wrong time during processing.
The "easiest" route depends on your eligibility. Common options include:
Some applicants may also qualify through the Diversity Visa Lottery, which is limited to select countries and is not guaranteed.
A lawyer cannot directly speed up processing, which is controlled by USCIS. However, they can:
Fees vary depending on case type, location, and lawyer experience:
Yes—especially for complex or high-stakes cases. A lawyer can:
For simple, straightforward applications, hiring a lawyer is optional but still beneficial for peace of mind.
Copyright @ 2025 by Sunita Kapoor Law Office.All rights reserved.
