Family Immigration

U.S. citizens can sponsor their spouses, unmarried children under 21, married children of any age, parents, and siblings. Lawful permanent residents can sponsor their spouses and unmarried children (under or over 21). Immediate relatives of U.S. citizens (spouses, unmarried minor children, and parents) have no annual visa limits and generally face shorter wait times. Our Syracuse immigration attorneys help determine eligibility and prepare strong petitions.

There are two primary categories:

• Immediate Relative Visas: For spouses, unmarried children under 21, and parents of U.S. citizens (no quota limits).
• Family Preference Visas: For other relatives, including unmarried adult children, married children, siblings of U.S. citizens, and spouses/unmarried children of green card holders (subject to annual limits and waiting periods). We assist clients throughout Central New York with both categories, including fiancé(e) (K-1) visas.

Processing times vary significantly. Immediate relative cases can take 12–24 months or longer, depending on USCIS backlogs and whether consular processing or adjustment of status is required. Family preference categories often involve additional wait times due to visa availability. Factors like background checks, interviews, and document preparation also affect timelines. Contact our Syracuse office for a case-specific estimate.

No. Only U.S. citizens can sponsor parents and siblings. Green card holders are limited to sponsoring spouses and unmarried children. If you recently became a U.S. citizen, our experienced family immigration lawyers in Syracuse can help upgrade or file new petitions to include additional relatives.

Common requirements include proof of the family relationship (birth certificates, marriage certificates, etc.), proof of the sponsor’s U.S. citizenship or permanent residency, financial support documentation (Form I-864 Affidavit of Support), and passport-style photos. Additional evidence may be needed for complex cases, such as prior marriages or criminal history. We provide personalized guidance to ensure your petition is complete and accurate.

Costs include USCIS filing fees (e.g., I-130 petition, adjustment of status or consular processing), biometrics, medical exams, and attorney fees. The sponsor must also meet income requirements or use a joint sponsor. Nichols Law Offices, PLLC offers a free initial consultation in most cases to review your situation and discuss transparent pricing.

While it is possible to file petitions yourself, errors can cause delays, denials, or even permanent bars. An experienced Syracuse family immigration attorney can help avoid common pitfalls, prepare strong supporting evidence, respond to Requests for Evidence (RFEs), and represent you at interviews. Our firm concentrates specifically in family-based permanent residency law.

Yes. U.S. immigration law recognizes same-sex marriages for sponsorship purposes if the marriage is valid where it was performed. We proudly assist same-sex couples with spousal petitions, green cards, and related family immigration matters in Syracuse and surrounding areas.

Nichols Law Offices, PLLC proudly serves clients in Syracuse, Rome, Utica, Binghamton, Fort Drum, Onondaga County, Jefferson County, and throughout Central New York. We offer in-person and remote consultations for family-based immigration cases.

Call us today at 315-445-8762 (available 24/7) or contact us online for a free initial consultation in most cases. Our dedicated team will evaluate your eligibility, explain the process, and help you reunite with your loved ones through lawful permanent residency.