Bringing your family together is one of the most common — and most meaningful — reasons people turn to U.S. immigration law. Family-based immigration lets U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents petition for certain relatives to live in the United States. This guide explains who qualifies, how the process works, and where an attorney makes the biggest difference.
If you’re starting a family petition in northwest Dallas, an experienced Dallas Immigration Attorney can help you choose the right path and avoid the errors that cause delays.
Who can I sponsor for a family-based green card?
It depends on your status. U.S. citizens can petition for a spouse, children, parents, and siblings. Lawful permanent residents (green card holders) can petition for a spouse and unmarried children. Immediate relatives of U.S. citizens — spouses, unmarried children under 21, and parents — generally have visas available without waiting in an annual cap, while other family categories may wait longer because of yearly limits.
The Piri Law Firm, located at 10807 Harry Hines Blvd in Dallas, TX 75220, helps families identify the correct category and build the strongest possible petition. You can learn more about the firm’s family-based visa services or review all of its immigration practice areas.
How does the marriage green card process work?
A marriage-based green card generally follows three phases: establishing the relationship through a petition, applying for the green card itself, and attending an interview. If the immigrant spouse is already in the United States and eligible, the green card step is called adjustment of status. If they are abroad, the case is finished through consular processing at a U.S. embassy or consulate.
Engaged couples who want to marry in the U.S. may instead start with a K-1 fiancé(e) visa, which allows the fiancé(e) to enter and marry within 90 days before applying for a green card.
How long does a family green card take?
Timelines vary widely. Immediate-relative cases for spouses of U.S. citizens often resolve in roughly 10 to 16 months, while categories subject to annual limits can take years depending on the relationship and the immigrant’s country. Current government estimates are published on the official USCIS processing times page at egov.uscis.gov/processing-times, and the monthly Visa Bulletin from the U.S. Department of State shows which categories are current.
No attorney can speed up government processing, but a correctly prepared case avoids the self-inflicted delays caused by missing documents, weak evidence, or a poorly prepared interview.
What evidence do I need to prove a real marriage?
For marriage cases, the goal is to show a genuine, shared life. Common evidence includes a joint lease or mortgage, shared bank accounts, insurance listing each other, photos together over time, travel records, and statements from people who know you as a couple. The official starting point for green card categories and requirements is the USCIS green card hub at uscis.gov/green-card.
Why work with a local Dallas firm?
A local attorney is easy to meet with and understands how cases move through the system. The Piri Law Firm emphasizes personalized attention so you’re never just a case number, a real commitment to keeping families together, and clear communication so you always know where your case stands. The Harry Hines office is convenient for clients throughout northwest Dallas, including the Bachman Lake and Love Field areas.
How do I get started?
The first step is a consultation. Bring identification, marriage or birth certificates, and any prior immigration paperwork. To schedule with The Piri Law Firm, call (214) 509-7953 or visit 10807 Harry Hines Blvd, Dallas, TX 75220.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I sponsor my spouse if I’m a green card holder, not a citizen? Yes. Lawful permanent residents can petition for a spouse and unmarried children, though wait times may be longer than for U.S. citizens because these categories are subject to annual limits.
Can my spouse work while the green card is pending? In many adjustment-of-status cases, the applicant can apply for a work permit while the green card is pending. An attorney can advise whether and when to file.
What happens at the green card interview? A USCIS officer reviews your documents and asks questions to confirm the relationship is genuine. Preparing in advance with your attorney helps you answer clearly and truthfully.
Does the firm serve Spanish-speaking clients? Yes. The firm exclusively serves the Latin community and provides guidance in a culturally familiar, accessible way.
How much does a family green card case cost? Government filing fees apply, plus attorney fees that depend on the complexity of your case. A consultation is the best way to understand the total for your situation.
This article is general information, not legal advice. The Piri Law Firm | Attorney Michael Piri (Texas Bar No. 24096771) | 10807 Harry Hines Blvd, Dallas, TX 75220 | (214) 509-7953
