A family-based green card allows a foreign national to become a lawful permanent resident of the United States based on a close familial relationship with a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident (LPR). There are two main categories for this type of green card. The first is for immediate relatives of U.S. citizens, which includes spouses, unmarried children under 21, and parents of citizens over the age of 21. This category is not subject to annual caps. The second category is the family preference system, which includes unmarried adult children (21 and older) of U.S. citizens (F1), spouses and minor children of green card holders (F2A), unmarried adult children of green card holders (F2B), married children of U.S. citizens (F3), and siblings of U.S. citizens (F4). These preference categories are subject to annual limits and often have longer wait times.
When applying for a family-based green card, several key factors must be considered. First, the petitioner must be a U.S. citizen or green card holder and must be able to prove the familial relationship. The process typically begins with Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative). If the beneficiary is already in the U.S., they may also file Form I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status). Those residing abroad usually apply through consular processing using Form DS-260. Supporting documentation is critical and includes evidence of the relationship (such as birth or marriage certificates), proof of the petitioner’s status, and financial documents, including the Affidavit of Support (Form I-864), which shows the petitioner can financially support the beneficiary.
Applicants should also be aware of the public charge rule, which evaluates whether they might become dependent on government benefits. Marriage-based green card applications are reviewed carefully to prevent fraud, so it is essential to provide convincing evidence of a genuine relationship. Processing times vary depending on the applicant’s relationship to the petitioner and country of origin. Those in family preference categories should regularly check the U.S. Department of State’s Visa Bulletin to see when their priority date becomes current. Most applicants will also need to undergo a medical examination (Form I-693) and attend an in-person interview before receiving approval.
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