Two broad family-based groups
The Department of State describes two broad types of family-based immigrant visas. Immediate-relative visas cover certain close relationships with a U.S. citizen, including a spouse, an unmarried child under 21, or a parent when the U.S. citizen petitioner is at least 21. These categories are not subject to annual numerical limits.
Family-preference visas cover other specified relationships with U.S. citizens and certain relationships with lawful permanent residents. These categories are numerically limited, so visa availability and the applicant’s priority date can affect timing.
Who may petition for whom?
A U.S. citizen may generally petition for a spouse, son or daughter, parent, or sibling, although age and other rules apply. A lawful permanent resident may generally petition for a spouse or an unmarried son or daughter. A petition does not itself grant permanent residence; it is one step in a larger process.
- Identify the petitioner’s exact status: U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident.
- Document the qualifying family relationship with complete civil records.
- Determine whether the beneficiary will process inside or outside the United States.
- Check visa availability for any preference category before assuming a timeline.
A typical consular path
For many relatives living abroad, the process begins with a petition filed with USCIS. After approval, the National Visa Center may collect fees and documents before an interview is scheduled at a U.S. embassy or consulate. Medical examination, financial-support documentation, and admissibility questions may also be part of the case.
Every family’s history can change the analysis. Prior immigration filings, unlawful presence, arrests, previous marriages, adoption, step-relationships, and document inconsistencies should be raised early with a qualified immigration attorney.
Official sources and further reading
Always check current agency instructions, forms, fees, and policy before acting.