United States · Family Visas

Family-based Green Card

Overview of immigrant visa pathways for foreign nationals sponsored by US citizen or lawful permanent resident family members.

Who it suits

Who this pathway suits

Spouses, children, parents, and siblings of US citizens and permanent residents.

Eligibility

Eligibility at a glance

  • Qualifying relationship to a US citizen (Immediate Relative or Family Preference) or Green Card holder (F2A, F2B)
  • Sponsor files Form I-130 Petition for Alien Relative
  • Sponsor meets financial sponsorship requirements under Form I-864 Affidavit of Support (125% of HHS Poverty Guidelines)
Process

How the process works

  1. File Form I-130 with USCIS
  2. Approval and NVC fee processing
  3. Apply for Green Card via I-485 (in US) or DS-260 (abroad)
Documents

Documents you will typically need

  • Form I-130, proof of sponsor's citizenship/PR, marriage/birth certificates, Form I-864 with tax returns
Good to know

What to keep in mind

Immediate relatives of US citizens (spouses, parents, unmarried minor children) are exempt from annual visa quotas and never experience waiting backlogs.

Official source: USCIS — Green Card for Family Members. Government authorities make all final decisions; no outcome is guaranteed.

Is Family-based Green Card the right route for you?

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