Helping Families in Chicago Through the Family Immigration Process for Over 50 Years
For over 50 years, our family immigration attorneys have helped thousands of clients in the Chicago area bring family members to the U.S. Our team understands the emotional and legal complexities of this process and is dedicated to providing honest advice and thorough representation.
Why Families in Chicago Choose Spar & Bernstein for Immigration Help
Whether you’re a U.S. citizen or a lawful permanent resident, we can help you determine the best immigration path for your relatives. From petition preparation to interview support, we guide families in Chicago step by step with personalized strategies designed for long-term success.
How Family-Based Immigration Works for Chicago Residents
Family-based immigration allows Chicago residents to sponsor qualifying relatives for lawful permanent residence. This process typically starts with Form I-130 and can proceed through adjustment of status or consular processing, depending on the beneficiary’s situation.
Family-Based Visa Options Available to Sponsors in Chicago
U.S. citizens and green card holders in Chicago may be eligible to sponsor the following relatives:
- Spouse
- Children (married or unmarried, depending on status)
- Parents (for U.S. citizens over 21)
- Siblings (for U.S. citizens over 21)
Understanding Family Preference Categories for Applicants in Chicago
Visa availability for family-sponsored immigrants depends on the applicant’s category:
- Immediate Relative Visas: For close relatives of U.S. citizens (no annual cap)
- Family Preference Visas: For more distant relatives and relatives of green card holders (subject to annual limits)
Guiding Chicago Families Through the Immigration Process With Care and Experience
We understand how important family unity is. Our attorneys support clients through every stage of the immigration process—from initial petitions to visa interviews—ensuring each case is handled with professionalism, empathy, and local insight.
Chicago Family Immigration FAQs
What Does a Family Immigration Lawyer in Chicago Do?
A family immigration lawyer in Chicago helps U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents sponsor family members for green cards, visas, or citizenship. This includes filing petitions (like Form I-130), preparing adjustment of status or consular processing applications, and assisting with waivers, interviews, and appeals if necessary.
Who Can a Chicago Family Immigration Attorney Help Bring to the U.S.?
A family immigration attorney in Chicago can help you sponsor a spouse, fiancé(e), children, parents, or siblings, depending on your immigration status. Immediate relatives of U.S. citizens have the fastest processing times, while other family-based categories may face annual visa limits and longer waits.
How Long Does the Family Immigration Process Take With a Lawyer’s Help?
Timelines vary based on the type of relationship and country of origin. A family immigration lawyer in Chicago can help streamline the process by ensuring accurate filings and minimizing delays due to errors or missing documentation. In some cases, the process can take months, while in others it may take several years.
Can a Chicago Family Immigration Lawyer Help if My Family Member Is Undocumented?
Yes. A family immigration lawyer in Chicago can explore available options such as adjustment of status through marriage, waivers for unlawful presence, or DACA eligibility. While not all undocumented individuals qualify for relief, a lawyer can assess the situation and develop the best legal strategy.
What Should I Bring to My Consultation With a Family Immigration Attorney in Chicago?
Bring any immigration documents related to you and your family member(s), such as passports, visa records, marriage or birth certificates, and prior applications or notices from USCIS. A family immigration attorney in Chicago will use these to evaluate your eligibility and create a roadmap for your case.
Bradford H. Bernstein, a second-generation leader at Law Offices of Spar & Bernstein, P.C., has helped over 100,000 clients with immigration and personal injury issues. Brad joined the firm in 1993, became a partner in 1997, and assumed leadership in 2000 after Harry Spar retired.
View Brad's Bio