Family Based Immigration

Green Cards

Family Sponsored Immigration
Individuals can become permanent residents if you have a relative who is a U.S. Citizen or a lawful permanent
resident. There are two categories of obtaining a green card through family members: unlimited and limited.

Unlimited Family-Based Immigration
Immediate relatives of a U.S citizens or lawful permanent residents do not have to wait for a visa number; all thats is
needed is an approved visa petition from the United States Citizenship & Immigration Services.

Immediate Relatives

Spouses of U.S. Citizens
Minor children (under 21) of U.S. Citizens
Parents of U.S. Citizens (if U.S. Citizen is over 21)

Limited Family-Based Immigration
Relatives of a U.S citizen or lawful permanent resident must wait for an immigrant visa to become available. The
preferences for visa numbers are:

First Preference:

Unmarried sons & daughters of U.S.

Citizens

(any age)

Second Preference:

Spouses & unmarried children of Legal

Permanent

Residents

Third Preference:

Married sons & daughters of U.S.

Citizens

Fourth Preference:

Brothers and sisters of U.S.

Citizens

Derivative Beneficiaries:

The spouse or children of the principal individual under the family sponsored preferences.