Family-Based Immigration
Family Immigration Lawyer in Tampa - Reuniting and Keeping Families Together
FAMILIES BELONG TOGETHER
At the Law Office of Salomon Numa, we help clients navigate the family-based immigration process for spouses, children, parents, and siblings—whether they are in the U.S. or abroad. Our office provides clear guidance through each stage of the petition process, helping families understand their options and requirements. We work with care and attention to detail to support families as they pursue lawful immigration pathways.
As a Tampa family based immigration lawyer, Attorney Salomon Numa assists individuals seeking visas and permanent residence through qualifying family relationships. Our office works with clients throughout Tampa and surrounding communities who are looking for a knowledgeable family visa attorney to guide them through the process. Whether you need help filing a petition or responding to a request for evidence, we provide practical legal support at every stage.
Family-Based Immigration Case Types
Spouse & Fiancé Petitions
Helps couples begin the immigration process through engagement or marriage.
Forms: I-130, I-129F
Petitions for Parents & Siblings
Allows U.S. citizens to bring certain family members to the U.S.
Form: I-130
Consular Processing
Applying for a Green Card From Outside the U.S.
Forms: DS-260, I-864
Adjustment of Status
Lets eligible individuals apply for a green card from within the U.S.
Form I-485
Parole in place (“PIP”)
Allows undocumented family members of U.S. military personnel to remain in the U.S. and apply for lawful status.
Waivers of Inadmissibility
Provides forgiveness for unlawful presence, misrepresentation, or other grounds of inadmissibility.
Forms: I-601, I-601A
Affidavit of Support & Sponsorship
Required to show financial responsibility when sponsoring an immigrant.
Form: I-864
How the Family-Based Immigration Process Works
The family-based immigration process generally involves several steps, depending on the relationship between the petitioner and the family member and the type of visa sought. While each case is different, the process commonly includes the following stages:
Filing the family petition
A qualifying U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident files a petition to establish the eligible family relationship.
Application review and processing
USCIS reviews the petition and supporting documentation. Additional information may be requested during this stage.
Visa availability and next steps
If a visa is available, the case moves forward through adjustment of status or consular processing, depending on where the family member is located.
Final decision
A determination is made by the appropriate government agency based on eligibility and documentation.
What Are the Requirements for Family Immigration?
Family-based immigration requires meeting specific eligibility criteria established under U.S. immigration law. While requirements vary depending on the type of petition and family relationship, several core elements apply to most family immigration cases.
Who can file - A U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident may be eligible to file a family-based immigration petition for certain qualifying relatives.
Qualifying family relationships - Eligible relationships may include spouses, children, parents, siblings, or fiancé(e)s, depending on the petitioner’s immigration status and the visa category.
Required documentation - Petitions typically require proof of the qualifying family relationship, identity documents, and other supporting records as required by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
Admissibility considerations - The family member seeking immigration must generally meet admissibility requirements under U.S. immigration law, which may include background, medical, and prior immigration history considerations.
Financial sponsorship - Many family-based immigration cases require a financial sponsor to demonstrate the ability to support the immigrating family member, as outlined in federal guidelines.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the family-based immigration process take?
Timelines vary depending on the relationship and the beneficiary’s country. For example, spouse petitions typically process faster than sibling petitions. We help you understand current wait times and what to expect based on your unique case.
Can I sponsor a family member if I live outside Tampa?
Yes. Although we’re based in Tampa, we represent clients nationwide and even those living abroad. We handle everything virtually and keep communication clear and consistent.
What happens after I file Form I-130?
USCIS will process the petition and, once approved, your family member can apply for a green card through adjustment of status (if in the U.S.) or consular processing (if abroad).
How can I bring my family members to the United States?
Bringing a family member to the United States typically begins with filing a petition under U.S. family based immigration laws. U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents may sponsor certain relatives by submitting the appropriate forms to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
After a petition is filed, the case may proceed through consular processing or adjustment of status, depending on the circumstances. Eligibility requirements and processing times vary based on the relationship and visa category.
Who is eligible for family-based migration?
Eligibility depends on the sponsor’s immigration status and the family relationship.
U.S. citizens may petition for spouses, children, parents, and siblings. Lawful permanent residents may petition for spouses and unmarried children.
Some relatives fall into immediate relative categories, while others are placed in family preference categories that are subject to annual visa limits. Visa availability and waiting periods vary by category and country of origin.
What legal services does a family immigration attorney offer?
A family immigration attorney may assist with preparing and filing petitions, reviewing documentation, advising on eligibility under federal immigration law, and guiding clients through required procedural steps.
Legal services may also include responding to government requests for additional evidence and advising clients on compliance with immigration regulations. Final decisions on petitions and visa applications are made by the appropriate government agencies.
How can I help a family member get a visa?
Helping a family member obtain a visa generally involves determining whether you qualify to sponsor them and filing the appropriate petition with USCIS.
Because immigration laws and documentation requirements can be complex, some individuals consult a family visa lawyer for guidance on preparing and submitting the required forms. A family visa lawyer can help review eligibility, organize supporting evidence, and ensure filings comply with current immigration regulations. Approval decisions remain subject to government review.
Ready to get started?
Our family-based immigration lawyer in Tampa is here to help you reunite with your loved ones—no matter where you live in the U.S.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the next step toward your family’s future.