Family-based immigration visas allow U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents (green card holders) to sponsor certain relatives for permanent residency. These visas are designed to reunite families who have been separated due to immigration laws. If you are considering sponsoring a relative, it’s important to understand the different visa categories available.
Immediate relative visas
Immediate relative visas are available to close family members of U.S. citizens. These visas are not subject to annual numerical limits, meaning the wait time is generally shorter compared to other types. Eligible family members include:
- Spouses of U.S. citizens
- Unmarried children under 21 of U.S. citizens
- Parents of U.S. citizens (if the U.S. citizen is 21 or older)
This category offers the fastest route to a green card for eligible relatives.
Family preference visas
Family preference visas are subject to annual limits and have longer wait times due to demand. These visas are available to more distant relatives of U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents. The four preference categories include:
- First preference (F1): Unmarried adult children of U.S. citizens
- Second preference (F2A): Spouses and children of lawful permanent residents
- Second preference (F2B): Unmarried adult children of lawful permanent residents
- Third preference (F3): Married children of U.S. citizens
- Fourth preference (F4): Siblings of U.S. citizens (if the U.S. citizen is 21 or older)
The family preference categories are subject to annual quotas, so wait times can vary significantly depending on the category and the applicant’s country of origin.
K visas for fiancés and spouses
K visas allow U.S. citizens to bring their foreign fiancés or spouses to the U.S. temporarily, with the possibility of applying for a green card once they are in the country. These include a K-1 visa, which is for foreign fiancés of U.S. citizens, and a K-3 visa. A K-3 visa is for foreign spouses of U.S. citizens who are awaiting permanent residency processing
These visas are specifically for those who wish to marry a U.S. citizen or have already married and want to live in the U.S. together.
Family-based immigration visas play an important role in uniting loved ones. Regardless of who you want to sponsor, understanding the types of visas available and their requirements will help you make the right decision for your family’s future.