Family Immigration - Immigrant Visas and Green Cards
Family Visa Categories
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Immediate Relatives
A U.S. citizen’s spouse, unmarried child under 21 years of age, or parent might qualify for an immigrant visa as an “immediate relative” of a U.S. citizen.
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Survivor of Domestic Violence
If your U.S. citizen or LPR spouse abused you, then know that you do not have to stay with them for fear of immigration consequences, and in fact you might qualify for permanent residence due to the abuse.
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Family Living Abroad
Fiances, immediate relatives, and family preference category relatives may qualify for a family visa through the U.S. embassy or consulate in their home country or a safe alternative country in certain circumstances through the National Visa Center (NVC).
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Visa Categories
F1 - unmarried sons and daughters (21 years of age and older) of U.S. citizens.
F2A - spouses and children (unmarried and under 21 years of age) of LPRs.
F2B - unmarried sons and daughters (21 years of age and older) of LPRs.
F3 - married sons and daughters of U.S. citizens.
F4 - brothers and sisters of U.S. citizens (if the U.S. citizen is 21 years of age and older).
An “immediate relative” of a U.S. citizen is not subject to the preference categories (annual caps on visa availability for permanent residence), and might be eligible to “adjust status” to lawful permanent residence in the U.S., depending on the circumstances.
Other family members (not “immediate relatives”) are subject to the “preference categories” (annual caps), so they may have to wait until a visa becomes available or “current” before they can either adjust their status in the U.S. or apply for an immigrant visa at a U.S. consulate abroad.
