Family Preference Green Cards represent a category of immigrant visas that empower U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents (LPRs) to sponsor specific family members for permanent residency within the United States. Unlike Immediate Relative Green Cards, which boast more immediate availability, Family Preference Green Cards encounter annual numerical limits, leading to extended waiting periods. Subject to annual numerical limits, waiting periods vary based on the family relationship category and country of origin. Some categories experience shorter waiting periods, while others face substantial backlogs. Divided into preference categories (F1, F2A, F2B, F3, and F4) reflecting the family relationship type, each category possesses unique requirements and waiting periods. Notably, spouses and unmarried children under 21 years old of LPRs (F2A) hold higher priority.
Certain family members accompanying or following the principal immigrant may be eligible for derivative Green Cards, for instance, spouses and unmarried children under 21 years old of the principal immigrant.
Certain family members accompanying or following the principal immigrant may be eligible for derivative Green Cards, for instance, spouses and unmarried children under 21 years old of the principal immigrant.
Requirements for Family Preference Green Cards
- U.S. Citizen or LPR Sponsor: The petitioner must be a U.S. citizen or an LPR (Green Card holder) aged at least 18.
- Qualifying Family Relationship: The petitioner must share a qualifying family relationship with the intending immigrant. Categories include unmarried sons and daughters of U.S. citizens (F1), spouses and unmarried children of LPRs (F2A), unmarried sons and daughters of LPRs (F2B), married sons and daughters of U.S. citizens (F3), and brothers and sisters of adult U.S. citizens (F4), each with unique eligibility criteria and waiting periods.
- Priority Date: The petitioner must submit Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative. The assigned priority date is pivotal, determining the immigrant's place in the visa processing queue, based on the petition filing date.
- Affidavit of Support: Demonstrating financial capability to support the intending immigrant is crucial. This involves filing an Affidavit of Support (Form I-864) and presenting evidence of ample income or assets.
- Consular Processing or Adjustment of Status: Once the priority date becomes current, the intending immigrant can undergo consular processing at a U.S. embassy or consulate if outside the U.S. If already in the U.S. on a valid visa, adjustment of status to that of a permanent resident may be possible.
Upon obtaining a Family Preference Green Card and meeting residency requirements, family members may pursue U.S. citizenship through naturalization. Consulting with an immigration attorney is advised for a comprehensive understanding of specific requirements and proficient navigation through the application process.