Sponsoring an Immigrant in Charlotte

For many people with dreams of coming to the United States, having someone serve as their sponsor can provide the best path forward. This could be a loved one who is currently a citizen or resident of this country or a business promising to hire you once you arrive.

Sponsoring an immigrant in Charlotte allows someone to immigrate to the U.S., but that does not mean the process is easy. A dedicated attorney could ensure all of the appropriate steps are taken along the way.

Family Members Sponsoring Loved Ones

By far, the most common way for one person to sponsor an immigrant for a visa in Charlotte is based on a close family bond. This program is designed to reunite families within the United States, and countless people apply for a visa in this way each year.

There are two different types of family-based immigration. The option that takes the least amount of time is reserved for the immediate family members of U.S. citizens, including their spouses and young children. There is no annual limit on this type of visa, meaning the waiting period is often much shorter.

Most people must go through the second approach: family preference. There are limits on the number of these visas issued each year, meaning most people wait years before approval. This option is available for the close family of legal residents, plus the siblings and married children of citizens.

There are limits on who can serve as a sponsor. Usually, a sponsor must be at least 18 years of age. That number is increased to 21 when it comes to a person advocating for their parent or sibling. The sponsor must primarily reside in this country and have the financial means to support the person they are vouching for.

Employers as Sponsors

In addition to family immigration, another common approach in Charlotte involves employers sponsoring existing employees or potential hires. These visas come in different forms, with some providing a path to citizenship and others allowing for a limited period of entry.

Workers seeking to come to the U.S. temporarily may seek what is known as an H-1 visa. This program allows someone to enter the country for a limited amount of time to perform a certain job for which they were hired. Once the term of their employment ends, they are required to leave the country. These visas do not provide any way for the worker to qualify for lawful permanent residency while they are here. An employer must serve as a sponsor for this type of visa.

When someone seeks to come to the U.S. for work permanently, they may not always require a sponsor. Certain individuals with high qualifications in the appropriate field may be allowed to live and work here indefinitely. Other permanent visas—like the EB-2—require a sponsor as well as an advanced degree. There must be a formal offer from a company that has secured a labor certification before the process can begin.

Talk to an Attorney in Charlotte About Sponsoring an Immigrant

Finding a sponsor for your visa is important, but it is only one of the crucial steps along the way. If you have questions about sponsoring an immigrant in Charlotte or what comes next, now is the time to discuss your options with a seasoned attorney. Call right away to learn more.