Family preference categories
Annual quota-limited immigrant visa categories for specific relatives of US citizens and permanent residents subject to the monthly Department of State Visa Bulletin.
Who this pathway suits
Adult children and siblings of US citizens, and spouses/children of permanent residents.
Eligibility at a glance
- F1: Unmarried sons and daughters (21+) of US citizens
- F2A: Spouses and unmarried children (under 21) of Green Card holders
- F2B: Unmarried adult children (21+) of Green Card holders
- F3: Married sons and daughters of US citizens
- F4: Brothers and sisters of adult US citizens
How the process works
- Sponsor files Form I-130
- Monitor Visa Bulletin for priority date progression
- Submit Green Card application once date becomes current
Documents you will typically need
- Form I-130, proof of relationship, I-864 Affidavit of Support, tax transcripts
What to keep in mind
Wait times range from a few months (F2A) to 10-15+ years (F4 sibling route depending on nationality).
Official source: U.S. Department of State — Family-Based Immigrant Visas. Government authorities make all final decisions; no outcome is guaranteed.
Parallel Options & Supporting Tools for Family preference categories
Explore supporting intelligence briefings, interactive points assessment tools, institutional services, and parallel global migration pathways.
Supporting Tools & Verification Checklists
Institutional Legal Services & Representation
Comparable Pathways Across Other Destinations
Related Category Pathways
Family-based Green Card
Verify current official rules and scope before publication.
Immediate relatives of US citizens
Verify current official rules and scope before publication.
K-1 fiancé(e) visa
Verify current official rules and scope before publication.
K-3 spouse visa — current utility review
Verify current official rules and scope before publication.

