Family-Based Immigration
Immigrant categories based on a qualifying family relationship to a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident.
Last verified: 2026-09-07
General overview
United States immigration law allows certain U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents to petition for close relatives. Some categories, such as spouses, unmarried minor children and parents of adult U.S. citizens, are treated as immediate relatives without an annual numerical limit. Other relationships fall into preference categories that are numerically limited, which is why waiting periods are published each month in the Department of State Visa Bulletin.
Main application stages
- 1Family petition filed by the U.S. relative with USCIS
- 2Visa availability monitored through the monthly Visa Bulletin, where the category is limited
- 3Immigrant visa processing at a U.S. consulate, or adjustment of status inside the United States
- 4Medical examination, biometrics and interview
- 5Decision and, if approved, admission or grant of permanent residence
Who may consider this pathway
- People with a spouse, parent, child or sibling who is a U.S. citizen
- People with a spouse or unmarried child who is a lawful permanent resident
- Families planning a long-term move and wanting to understand realistic timelines
General eligibility considerations
- A qualifying, documented family relationship
- A petitioner who meets residence and support requirements
- Financial sponsorship evidence, commonly an affidavit of support
- Admissibility questions, including prior immigration or criminal history
- Visa availability in the applicable preference category
Common documentation categories
- Identity and civil documents (passports, birth records)
- Proof of the family relationship (marriage, birth or adoption records)
- Proof of the petitioner's U.S. status
- Financial and sponsorship documentation
- Police and background documentation where required
Important limitations
- Preference categories are numerically limited and waits can be long
- Only an authorized U.S. attorney can assess eligibility or inadmissibility in your case
- Rules, fees and processing times change without notice
Frequently asked questions
Can Kohanbaba file this petition for me?
No. Kohanbaba provides general orientation and can organize your background information and documents. Preparation, filing and legal advice for a U.S. petition are handled by an authorized U.S. immigration attorney.
How long does a family case take?
It depends on the category, the country of chargeability and current government processing. We do not estimate or promise timelines; official sources publish current information.
Official sources
- USCIS — Family of U.S. citizens
- Department of State — Immigrant visa for a spouse or fiancé(e)
- USCIS — uscis.gov
Last verified: 2026-09-07
Related pathways
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An overview of the preference categories used for permanent residence through work.
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A temporary classification for transfers within a related international company.
E-1 and E-2 Treaty Trader and Investor
Classifications available to nationals of countries that maintain a qualifying treaty with the United States.