Family Based Green Card Lawyer Maryland — How Do You Secure Permanent Residency?
A family based green card lawyer in Maryland guides U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents through the process of sponsoring family members for lawful permanent residency. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides full representation for these complex immigration petitions, helping you handle the requirements to reunite your family.
What Is a Family-Based Green Card?
The family-based immigration system allows U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents (green card holders) to sponsor certain family members for lawful permanent residency in the United States. This process is governed by federal law under the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA). The firm was founded in 1997 by a former prosecutor, bringing decades of focused legal experience to these cases.
Last verified: April 2026 | U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) | USCIS website
Official Immigration Resources
Understanding the official process is critical. For the governing law, refer to the Immigration and Nationality Act (U.S. Code Title 8). For application forms, fees, and processing times, always check the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website.
The Process for Family-Based Immigration in Maryland
Securing a green card through family sponsorship involves multiple, sequential steps with USCIS. An immigration status lawyer can manage this detailed process. The first step is filing a Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, to establish the qualifying family relationship. Once approved, the beneficiary may apply for an immigrant visa or adjust their status if already in the U.S.
- Determine Eligibility: Confirm the petitioner is a U.S. citizen or LPR and the family relationship qualifies under the INA.
- File the I-130 Petition: Submit Form I-130 with USCIS with all required supporting evidence and fees.
- Wait for Visa Availability: For categories with annual limits (most family preference categories), wait for a visa number to become available based on the priority date.
- Apply for the Green Card: The beneficiary files either for consular processing abroad (Form DS-260) or adjustment of status in the U.S. (Form I-485).
- Attend the Interview: Complete a biometrics appointment and attend an interview with USCIS or the Department of State.
- Receive a Decision: If approved, the beneficiary receives their green card (Form I-551) as proof of lawful permanent resident status.
Understanding Family-Based Immigration Categories
In Maryland, family-based green cards are divided into two main groups: Immediate Relative categories, which have no annual limits, and Family Preference categories, which are subject to numerical caps and waiting periods.
| Category | For Petitioners Who Are… | Beneficiaries | Visa Limit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Immediate Relative | U.S. Citizens | Spouses, unmarried children under 21, parents | No limit |
| Family First Preference (F1) | U.S. Citizens | Unmarried sons and daughters (age 21+) | 23,400 per year |
| Family Second Preference (F2A & F2B) | Lawful Permanent Residents | Spouses/unmarried children under 21 (F2A); Unmarried sons/daughters 21+ (F2B) | 114,200 per year |
| Family Third Preference (F3) | U.S. Citizens | Married sons and daughters (any age) | 23,400 per year |
| Family Fourth Preference (F4) | U.S. Citizens | Brothers and sisters | 65,000 per year |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Experience with Family Immigration Cases
The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our firm handles the full range of family-based immigration matters. We assist with initial petitions, responses to USCIS requests, adjustment of status applications, and consular processing. Our goal is to provide clear guidance through each step of the residency application help process to reunite families.
Case Results in Immigration Law
Our firm has handled thousands of immigration matters. We have successfully secured family-based green cards for clients facing various details, including handling visa bulletin backlogs, responding to detailed Requests for Evidence (RFEs), and preparing clients for successful interviews. A green card attorney from our team works to build a strong case from the start.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Connect with a Maryland Family Immigration Lawyer
Our team is available to discuss your family-based immigration case. We offer 24/7 phone consultations for your convenience.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
By appointment only.
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747
24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions: Family-Based Green Cards
Can a green card holder sponsor a married child?
No. A lawful permanent resident (green card holder) cannot sponsor a married child for a family-based green card. Only U.S. citizens can petition for married children, and they fall under the Family Third Preference (F3) category, which has a significant waiting period.
How long does the family-based green card process take?
It depends entirely on the specific family category and the beneficiary’s country of chargeability. Immediate Relative petitions (for spouses, minor children, and parents of U.S. citizens) have no quotas and are generally fastest. Preference categories (for siblings, adult children) have annual limits and waiting periods that can extend for many years.
What happens if my I-130 petition is denied?
If USCIS denies your Form I-130, you typically have the option to file a motion to reopen or reconsider, or you may appeal to the Administrative Appeals Office (AAO). The specific strategy depends on the grounds for denial. A permanent residency lawyer can review the denial notice and advise on the best course of action.
Can I adjust status if I entered the U.S. without inspection?
Generally, no. If you entered the United States without being admitted or paroled by an immigration officer (often called “EWI”), you are usually barred from adjusting your status to a green card holder inside the country. There are very limited exceptions, and you would likely need to depart and process through a U.S. consulate abroad, which may trigger other bars to reentry.
Do we need a lawyer for a clear spousal petition?
While it is possible to file without an attorney, a family based green card lawyer in Maryland can help ensure the petition is complete and the evidence of a bona fide marriage is compelling. This can prevent requests for evidence or delays. Many seemingly clear cases encounter procedural hurdles that an attorney is best equipped to manage.
Under Md. Code, Corps. & Assns. § 1-101, state law governs this practice area.