FAMILY-BASED PETITIONS
U.S citizens and permanent residents have the opportunity to sponsor certain family members to become lawful permanent residents based on the specific family relationship.
Spouses and Children of a US Citizen
A US citizen can sponsor their spouse, any unmarried children under the age of 21 years of age and their parents (as long as the US citizen is over 21 years old). These family members are considered immediate relatives and do not have specific wait times as other family members may experience.
Preference Immigrant Categories
First Preference (F1)
Unmarried sons and daughters that are 21 years of age and older of US citizens
Second Preference (F2A)
Spouses and children who are unmarried and under 21 years of ago of lawful permanent residents (green card holders)
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Second Preference (F2B)
Unmarried sons and daughters who are 21 years of age or older of lawful permanent residents (green card holders)
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Third Preference (F3)
Married sons and daughters of US citizens
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Fourth Preference (F4)
Brothers and sisters of US citizens as long as the US citizen is over 21 years of age
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