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Family-based Green Cards allow U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents to sponsor their relatives for permanent residency in the United States. This type of visa is crucial for keeping families together by providing a legal pathway for relatives to live and work in the U.S. permanently.
There are two main categories for family-based Green Cards:
IR-1: Spouse of a U.S. citizen.
IR-2: Unmarried child under 21 years of age of a U.S. citizen.
IR-3: Orphan adopted abroad by a U.S. citizen.
IR-4: Orphan to be adopted in the U.S. by a U.S. citizen.
IR-5: Parent of a U.S. citizen who is at least 21 years old.
F1: Unmarried sons and daughters of U.S. citizens, 21 years of age and older.
F2A: Spouses and children (unmarried and under 21) of lawful permanent residents.
F2B: Unmarried sons and daughters (21 years or older) of lawful permanent residents.
F3: Married sons and daughters of U.S. citizens.
F4: Brothers and sisters of U.S. citizens, where the U.S. citizen is at least 21 years old.
The process of applying for a family-based Green Card involves several steps:
The U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident sponsor must file a petition (Form I-130) with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) on behalf of the relative. The petition establishes the relationship between the sponsor and the relative.
Once the petition is approved, it is sent to the National Visa Center (NVC). Immediate relatives have no waiting period and can proceed with the next steps. For family preference categories, there may be a waiting period depending on visa availability and priority date.
The beneficiary applies for an immigrant visa at a U.S. consulate or embassy in their home country. If the beneficiary is already in the U.S., they may apply for adjustment of status (Form I-485) to become a permanent resident.
The beneficiary attends a visa interview and undergoes a medical examination. The consular officer reviews the application and supporting documents and determines eligibility for the visa.
If approved, the beneficiary receives an immigrant visa. Upon entering the U.S., they become a lawful permanent resident and will receive a Green Card in the mail.
Applicants for family-based Green Cards must provide various supporting documents, including:
Proof of the sponsor’s U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent residency.
Proof of the relationship between the sponsor and the beneficiary (e.g., marriage certificate, birth certificate).
Passport photos and a valid passport.
Affidavit of Support (Form I-864) demonstrating that the sponsor can financially support the beneficiary.
Medical examination results.
Police certificates and court records, if applicable.
The costs associated with family-based Green Cards include filing fees for Form I-130, Form I-485, and other necessary forms. Additionally, applicants must pay for the medical examination and any required translations of documents. Processing times vary based on the visa category and the applicant’s location, with immediate relatives typically experiencing shorter wait times than those in family preference categories.
Family-based Green Cards provide a legal pathway for U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents to reunite with their loved ones in the United States. Understanding the different categories, application process, and required documentation is essential for a successful visa application. For personalized assistance with the family-based Green Card process, consider consulting with a qualified immigration attorney or a reputable visa service provider.
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