Family Petition Process in Connecticut (2026 Guide)
If you are a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident living in Connecticut, you may be able to help a family member obtain legal status in the United States.
Family-based immigration is one of the most common ways people receive a Green Card — but the process can be complex depending on the relationship and immigration history involved.
This guide explains how the family petition process works in Connecticut, who qualifies, and how long it may take.
Who Can File a Family Petition?
You may qualify to sponsor certain relatives if you are:
A U.S. citizen
A lawful permanent resident (Green Card holder)
However, the category of family member you can petition depends on your status.
If You Are a U.S. Citizen
You may petition for:
Your spouse
Your unmarried children under 21
Your unmarried sons and daughters over 21
Your married sons and daughters
Your parents (if you are at least 21 years old)
Your siblings (if you are at least 21 years old)
Some of these categories are considered “immediate relatives,” meaning there is no annual visa limit.
If You Are a Green Card Holder
You may petition for:
Your spouse
Your unmarried children (any age)
These categories are subject to annual visa limits, which may create waiting periods.
Step-by-Step Family Petition Process in Connecticut
Step 1: File Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative)
The process begins by filing Form I-130 with USCIS.
This petition proves:
The qualifying family relationship
That the petitioner has lawful status
That the relationship is legitimate (especially in marriage cases)
Supporting documents may include:
Marriage certificates
Birth certificates
Proof of ongoing relationship
Photos and joint financial records (for marriage-based cases)
Step 2: Wait for Approval and Visa Availability
For immediate relatives of U.S. citizens, a visa is generally available immediately.
For preference categories (like siblings or married children), there may be long waiting periods based on:
Priority date
Visa bulletin availability
Country of origin
Some categories can take several years.
Step 3: Adjustment of Status or Consular Processing
Once the petition is approved and a visa becomes available, the beneficiary may apply for a Green Card through:
Adjustment of Status (if inside the U.S. and eligible)
OR
Consular Processing (if outside the U.S.)
Each option has different requirements and risks.
What If the Family Member Entered Without Inspection?
This is one of the most common complications.
If your relative entered without a visa, they may face:
3-year or 10-year bars
Waiver requirements
Consular interview risks
Some may qualify for:
Adjustment under special protections
I-601A provisional waiver
Parole in Place (for certain military families)
Legal analysis is crucial before proceeding.
How Long Does the Family Petition Process Take in Connecticut?
Processing times vary depending on:
USCIS workload
Visa category
Country of chargeability
Immigration history of the beneficiary
General estimates:
Immediate relatives: 12–24 months
Preference categories: Several years
Every case is different.
Common Mistakes in Family Petitions
Many delays occur because of:
Missing documents
Incorrect forms
Insufficient financial sponsorship (Form I-864)
Prior immigration violations not properly addressed
Errors can result in Requests for Evidence (RFEs) or denials.
Why Work With an Immigration Lawyer in Connecticut?
Family petitions may appear straightforward — but complications often arise.
An experienced immigration lawyer in Connecticut can:
Evaluate eligibility
Identify inadmissibility issues
Prepare waiver strategies
Avoid costly filing errors
Guide you through interviews
Family reunification is important. Proper preparation protects your loved ones.
Bringing Families Together
Family-based immigration allows many Connecticut residents to reunite with loved ones.
However, each case is unique. Immigration history, prior entries, criminal records, and visa availability all matter.
If you are considering filing a family petition, speaking with an experienced immigration attorney in Connecticut can help you understand your options clearly and move forward with confidence.
