The United States government has outlined two categories of family-based immigrant visas available to foreign nationals seeking permanent residence in the country, while specifying the relatives that US citizens and Green Card holders can sponsor.
According to official guidance from the US Department of State, foreign nationals seeking to relocate permanently to the United States must obtain an immigrant visa. To qualify, applicants generally need to be sponsored by a qualifying relative who is at least 21 years old and is either a US citizen or a Lawful Permanent Resident (LPR), commonly known as a Green Card holder.
The US family-based immigration programme is divided into two main categories: Immediate Relative visas and Family Preference visas.
Immediate Relative visas are available to certain close relatives of US citizens, including spouses, children and parents. The category is not subject to an annual numerical limit, meaning there is no yearly cap on the number of visas that can be issued under it.
Family Preference visas, on the other hand, cover certain more distant family relationships with US citizens, as well as specified relatives of Lawful Permanent Residents. Unlike Immediate Relative visas, Family Preference visas are subject to annual numerical limits, which can affect processing and waiting times.
Four relatives US citizens can sponsor
Under the family-based immigration programme, US citizens may petition for immigrant visas for four main categories of relatives:
- Spouse
- Son or daughter
- Parent
- Brother or sister
However, the classification of a son or daughter can depend on factors such as age and marital status. While certain minor children of US citizens may qualify as Immediate Relatives, adult children may fall under the Family Preference category and therefore be subject to annual visa limits.
The US Department of State advises prospective sponsors and applicants to carefully review the eligibility requirements, documentation and procedures applicable to their specific family relationship before beginning the petition process.
Relatives Green Card holders can sponsor
Lawful Permanent Residents can also sponsor certain family members to obtain permanent residence in the United States, although their sponsorship options are more limited than those available to US citizens.
Under the family-based immigration system, Green Card holders can generally petition for their spouses and unmarried sons or daughters. These applications fall under the Family Preference category and are therefore subject to annual numerical limits.
The US government says applicants and sponsors should follow the specific requirements for their visa category and provide the necessary documentation throughout the immigration process.
