Maison Law Immigration Lawyers helps immigrants in Bakersfield and California through the immigration process. When you’re a full U.S. citizen already and have family members in Mexico, there’s a number of visa options for bringing them here. That said, some are quicker than others. If you’d like to learn more about your options, contact us today for a one-on-one consultation.
Should You Get a Lawyer?
When you’re trying to bring your family members from Mexico to the United States, the immigration process becomes very important. One of the easiest ways to actually do this is by filing a Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative. While you don’t technically need a lawyer to go through this process, having our team on your side can make things much easier. We can:
- Look over your situation and confirm if the I-130 is the best option.
- Make sure your application is accurate and complete to avoid delays or denials.
- Handle the complex paperwork and USCIS requests for you.
- Tell you exactly what to expect at each stage of the process.
- Manage the details so you can focus on your family.
An I-130 isn’t your only option for bringing your family member to live with you in Bakersfield, but it’s among the most expedient. By working with our team, you can rest assured that your family member will have the best chance at a successful I-130 application.
What’s the Fastest Way to Bring My Family Members From Mexico to California?
The fastest way to bring your family member to California from Mexico depends on your relationship with them. Plus, your options are going to be different for closer family members–like your spouse or child–and has the potential to happen quicker. Generally, though, here’s what your fastest options are:
- I-130 – When you’re a current U.S. citizen, your spouse, children under 21, or parents can immigrate quickly because there’s no waiting list for them. You’ll need to file an I-130 petition, and they can apply for an immigrant visa through the U.S. consulate in Mexico. The waiting time for the 1-130 process is currently around 10 months. For other relatives, like your siblings, married children, or a spouse and children of a green card holder, the process takes longer because of visa limits.
- K-1 visa – If your loved one is your fiancé(e), they can come to the U.S. on a K-1 visa to get married. After the wedding, they can apply for a green card. This process is usually quicker than other family categories, usually taking around 10 months
- Tourist visa – If permanent immigration isn’t urgent, your family can apply for a Border Crossing Card or a tourist visa to visit you in California. While temporary, it’s a faster way to bring your family member here for shorter visits.
Immigration rules can be confusing, and mistakes cause delays. Our immigration lawyers can help you choose the fastest option, prepare your paperwork, and guide you through the process.
What Can You Do to Make Sure Your Family Member Makes it to California?
One of the toughest parts about the immigration process from your perspective as a U.S. and California citizen is that you can only do so much. Outside of choosing the fastest option, all you can really do is file the application. That said, there’s a few things you can do that can increase your family member’s chances of success:
- Check eligibility – Make sure your family member qualifies for sponsorship, which depends on the relationship.
- File the I-130 – Complete and submit Form I-130 along with documents like marriage or birth certificates and proof of your U.S. status. Double-check everything to avoid mistakes. If USCIS asks for more information, respond quickly to keep things moving.
- Show you can provide financial support – Submit Form I-864, Affidavit of Support, to prove you can support your family member financially when they arrive. This shows they won’t need public assistance.
- Keep track of things – Regularly check the status of your I-130 petition with USCIS. Stay on top of updates and be ready to act quickly if more information is needed.
- Prepare them for a consular interview – If your family member is in Mexico, they’ll need to go to an interview at the U.S. consulate. Help them get ready by gathering the required documents.
- Help with travel – Once approved, help your family member plan their travel to California. Make sure they know what to do when they arrive, like getting a Social Security number and adjusting their immigration status.
Again, while there’s a general process upon the filing of a petition, every situation is different. You might have to take certain steps that others won’t, but the overall goal is to bring your family member from Mexico to California. With that, taking these steps will put your family in the best position to succeed.
Get Help With the I-130 Process in California From Maison Law Immigration Lawyers
No matter which option you choose to bring your family member in Mexico to California, it can be complicated. However, our experienced immigration lawyers at Maison Law Immigration Lawyers can make it easier. We’re here to help you through every step. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and bring your family member to California.
