Family Immigration

To play, press and hold the enter key. To stop, release the enter key.

Helping Families Reunite and Build Their Future Together

New Orleans Family Immigration Lawyers

At The Rousell Law Firm, LLC, we know that nothing is more important than family. Whether you are a U.S. citizen or permanent resident hoping to bring loved ones to America, or you’ve built a life with someone abroad and want to begin your future together here in the United States, we are here to guide you through every step of the immigration process.

The U.S. immigration system can be complex, with strict requirements, extensive documentation, and long waiting periods. Even small mistakes can cause delays or denials. That’s why having experienced immigration counsel by your side is essential. Our New Orleans family-based immigration attorneys provide knowledgeable guidance, prepare your applications thoroughly, and advocate to keep your case moving forward.

----- SCHEDULE YOUR CONSULTATION -----

Basic Requirements for Family-Based Immigration

To qualify for family-based immigration, an individual must be the spouse, parent, or unmarried child under 21 of a U.S. citizen.

Legally valid

under the family laws of the jurisdiction where it occurred.

Legally eligible

meaning any prior marriages must be finalized before entering into the new marriage.

Bona fide

not a “sham” marriage for immigration purposes.

To prove the marriage is genuine, couples may be asked to show evidence such as living together, joining assets, sharing responsibilities, and presenting themselves as married in the community.

Removal of Conditions for Recent Marriages

If a couple has been married for less than two years at the time permanent residency is granted, the immigrant spouse will receive conditional permanent residence valid for two years.

To remove these conditions and obtain full permanent residency, the couple must file a joint petition during the 90 days before the conditional green card expires. Failure to do so may result in loss of residency status.

Family Members of the Immigrating Spouse

Certain family members of the immigrating spouse may also qualify for immigration benefits. For example, the child of a foreign spouse may qualify as a stepchild of a U.S. citizen, provided the marriage creating the step-relationship occurred before the child’s 18th birthday.

Family Immigration Visa Options

U.S. immigration law provides two main categories of family-based immigrant visas:

Immediate Relative (IR) Visas – Unlimited Availability

Spouses of U.S. citizens
Unmarried children under 21 of U.S. citizens
Parents of U.S. citizens (if the U.S. citizen is over 21)

Family Preference (FB) Visas – Subject to Annual Caps

FB1: Unmarried adult children of U.S. citizens (over 21)
FB2: Spouses and unmarried children of lawful permanent residents
FB3: Married sons and daughters of U.S. citizens, along with their spouses and minor children
FB4: Brothers and sisters of U.S. citizens (21 or older)

Additional categories include fiancé(e) visas (K-1/K-2), visas for widows or widowers of U.S. citizens, and visas for victims of abuse under the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA).

Requirements for Sponsorship

To petition for a family member, the sponsoring relative must:

Be at least 18 (21 in certain cases).
File the appropriate petition with USCIS.
Prove the qualifying family relationship.
Sign an affidavit of support, showing financial responsibility for the immigrant.

The applicant must:

Pass criminal, medical, and security checks.
Attend a U.S. Embassy or Consulate interview.
Complete a medical exam and required vaccinations.

How Long Does It Take?

Processing times vary widely. Immediate relative visas can move relatively quickly if applications are complete and accurate. Family preference visas, however, are subject to yearly limits and country caps, which can result in long wait times—sometimes years or even decades.

COSTS
&
FEES

The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) requires government filing fees, which vary by case type. Typical expenses include:

Petition for Family-Based Immigration: $675
Adjustment of Status (green card within the U.S.): $1,440
Employment Authorization (optional): $260
Advance Parole (optional): $630
Consular Processing Fees (if applying abroad): $120–$325 p/p
Permanent Resident Card (Green Card): $235

Attorney’s fees are separate and depend on the complexity of the case. At The Rousell Law Firm, we provide transparent fee structures and clear guidance so families know what to expect from the start.

The Rousell Law Firm's Team

Clarity in Counsel. Results-Driven Solutions. An Open, Honest Process.

At Rousell Law Firm, we blend compassionate guidance with thoughtful legal strategy. Our attorneys take the time to understand your individual needs, craft a customized plan, and deliver a clear path forward — offering straightforward expectations, transparent pricing, and practical timelines.

Same Day Consultations

Tailored Approach & Transparent Guidance

Serving Greater New Orleans Metro & Surrounding Areas

Joelann S. Rousell, J.D., MBA
Managing Attorney

Attorney Rousell is a dedicated and skilled legal professional committed to providing exceptional representation for clients facing family law, immigration, personal and other legal matters.

Arielle M. Lewis, J.D.
(Of Counsel)

Attorney Lewis (Of Counsel) assists the Rousell Law Firm with all family matters, such as: divorce, child custody, child support, and community property matters.

ABOUT THE ROUSELL LAW FIRM

How The Rousell Law Firm Can Help?

Our team works with clients across the New Orleans metropolitan area and South Louisiana. We:

Carefully prepare and review petitions to minimize errors.

Advise on eligibility, visa category, and wait times.

Support families through each step of the application and interview process.

Provide compassionate, client-focused representation with the goal of reuniting loved

At The Rousell Law Firm, we believe families belong together—and we are committed to helping you navigate the path to U.S. residency for the people you love.

Don't Face This Alone

Start Your Legal Journey and Secure Your Rights

Whether you are trying to figure out child custody, want to discuss working out an amicable agreement in your case, or simply need legal advice to reach your goals, don't navigate your situation without the guidance of an attorney.

📞 Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward bringing your family home.

SCHEDULE CONSULTATION

(504) 221-1616

Are You Facing A Legal Challenge And Seeking Experienced Guidance?

Our Experienced Attorneys Are Here To Help.

At The Rousell Law Firm, we offer personalized case evaluations to help our clients understand their options and make informed decisions. During your 30 minute initial consultation, potential clients have the opportunity to speak directly with Attorney Joelann Rousell about their case and receive a preliminary evaluation.

During the initial consultation, our goal is to provide you with an introductory explanation of the law that applies to your facts, a clear understanding of your legal matter and potential outcomes. Whether you are grappling with a family law matter, immigration, disability or need assistance with estate planning, our attorney has the knowledge and expertise to assist you in achieving your objectives.