For many families in Coral Springs and throughout South Florida, immigration is more than a legal process—it’s a deeply personal journey centered around love, unity, and the desire to build a better life together. Whether you’re working to bring a spouse, child, or parent to the United States or trying to adjust your family’s immigration status, understanding your legal options is the first step toward keeping your loved ones together. At Guerra Sáenz, PL, our experienced Coral Springs family immigration lawyer is here to guide families through every stage of the immigration process with compassion, knowledge, and dedication.
Family-Based Immigration: The Foundation of U.S. Immigration Law
Family-based immigration remains one of the most common and important paths for individuals seeking to live in the United States. Through this system, U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents (green card holders) can petition to bring certain relatives to live with them.
There are two main categories of family-based immigration:
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Immediate Relatives of U.S. Citizens:
This category includes spouses, unmarried children under 21, and parents of U.S. citizens who are 21 or older. Immediate relative petitions are not subject to annual numerical limits, meaning they are generally processed more quickly than other categories. -
Family Preference Categories:
These include adult children and siblings of U.S. citizens, as well as the spouses and unmarried children of lawful permanent residents. These cases are subject to annual limits and visa backlogs, so the waiting time can vary depending on the applicant’s home country and category.
Navigating these categories can be complex, and even a small mistake in documentation can result in delays or denials. Working with an experienced Coral Springs immigration lawyer from Guerra Sáenz, PL ensures that your petition is properly prepared and that your family’s case receives the attention it deserves.
Adjustment of Status vs. Consular Processing
Once a family petition is approved, the next step depends on where the family member currently lives. Those already in the United States may be eligible to adjust their status to that of a lawful permanent resident without having to return to their home country. Others who live abroad must complete consular processing through a U.S. embassy or consulate.
Each path has its advantages and challenges. Adjustment of status allows the applicant to remain in the country during the process, while consular processing often requires careful coordination and additional steps, such as medical examinations and visa interviews. The attorneys at Guerra Sáenz, PL help families determine the best approach based on their unique circumstances and ensure all legal requirements are met.
Fiancé(e) and Marriage-Based Visas
For couples, marriage and fiancé(e) visas are often the most direct routes to uniting in the United States. The K-1 visa allows a U.S. citizen to bring their fiancé(e) to the U.S. for marriage, while the K-3 visa enables spouses of U.S. citizens to enter the country while awaiting approval of their immigrant visa petition.
However, marriage-based immigration cases often face heightened scrutiny from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to prevent fraud. Providing strong evidence of a genuine relationship is essential. A knowledgeable Coral Springs family immigration lawyer can help you gather the right documentation, prepare for interviews, and anticipate questions that may arise during the process.
Reuniting Refugee and Asylee Families
For those granted asylum or refugee status, family reunification can be an emotional and vital step. Refugees and asylees may petition for their spouses and unmarried children under 21 to join them in the U.S. within two years of their admission or asylum approval. These cases require careful attention to detail, as missing deadlines or documentation can jeopardize a family’s chance of reunion.
At Guerra Sáenz, PL, we understand the urgency and sensitivity of these petitions. Our attorneys work closely with families to ensure that every requirement is met, helping loved ones find safety and stability together.
Humanitarian and Special Circumstances
In some cases, families may qualify for humanitarian programs such as Temporary Protected Status (TPS), U visas for crime victims, or VAWA self-petitions for abused spouses and children of U.S. citizens or permanent residents. These programs exist to protect vulnerable individuals while maintaining the principle of family unity.
Our legal team takes great pride in helping individuals in these challenging circumstances. Whether you’re seeking protection or trying to bring your loved ones to safety, our attorneys will stand by your side with compassion and unwavering support.
Why Choose Guerra Sáenz, PL?
Located in the heart of Coral Springs, Guerra Sáenz, PL is a trusted law firm dedicated exclusively to immigration law. Led by Luis A. Guerra, a Board Certified Expert in Immigration and Nationality Law, the firm brings unparalleled experience to every case. Board Certification by The Florida Bar is the highest level of recognition an attorney can receive for competency and professionalism in a specific area of law—an assurance that your case will be handled with the utmost care and expertise.
The firm represents clients throughout Coral Springs, Fort Lauderdale, Miami, and across South Florida, providing personalized and strategic immigration solutions. Whether your family’s case involves petitions, waivers, green cards, or naturalization, Guerra Sáenz, PL is committed to protecting your rights and keeping your family together.
Contact a Coral Springs Family Immigration Lawyer Today
Family is at the heart of every immigration story. At Guerra Sáenz, PL, we understand that reuniting with your loved ones or securing their legal status in the United States is one of the most important goals you can pursue. Our legal team is here to help you navigate every step of the process with professionalism, compassion, and proven results.
If you or your family need help with any aspect of U.S. immigration law, contact a trusted Coral Springs immigration lawyer at Guerra Sáenz, PL today. Call (954) 434-5800 or schedule an online consultation with a skilled Coral Springs family immigration lawyer who will work tirelessly to help you keep your loved ones together.