Family Unity

The United States immigration policy’s cornerstone has been family-based immigration since 1965. In relation to all types of migrant categories, the highest number of cases are immigrants with family connections to American citizens being admitted by the United States. Many other countries employee immigration policies that favor migrants on a skill-based level. Annually, the United States may admit family migrants numbering 480,000 – a limit set by the 1965 INA or Immigration and Nationality Act. Additionally, in comparison to other countries, the United States allows a much broader category definition of relatives who may qualify for admission.

The forms required for family unity benefits application are as follows:

• E-Notification of Application/Petition Acceptance Form G – 1145
• Form I – 817instruction sheet
• Form I – 817

To request either an extension of family unity program benefits or to request initial benefits, forms should be filed at the direct filing addresses listed on form I – 817. If you file at a lockbox facility through the USCIS, you can receive a text message or an email letting you know that an accepted form has been processed. To do this, you need to complete Form G – 1145 E-Notification of Application/Petition Acceptance and have it clipped to your application’s first page.

Currently, there is a $600 filing fee. For each applicant that is 14 years old and up, an $85 biometric service fee will be required.

Important notice: Considering the current administration’s attempt at altering the laws of immigration, any and all current laws and requirements are subject to change. It is advisable to check with the USCIS on anything related to immigration before proceeding with applications.