Family-Based Immigrants

Last Updated on 08/11/2011

• Changes to Filing I-130 Petition Overseas (effective August 15, 2011)

Persons seeking to immigrate in one of the family-based preference categories will qualify for immigrant status only if they have the necessary relationship to a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident as described below.

1. Unmarried sons and daughters of U.S. citizens, and their children.
2. Spouses, minor children, and unmarried sons and daughters of a lawful permanent resident alien.
3. Married sons and daughters of U.S. citizens, and their spouses and children.
4. Brothers and sisters of U.S. citizens, and their spouses and children, provided the US citizens are 21 years of age or older

Note: Grandparents, aunts, uncles, in-laws and cousins cannot sponsor a relative for immigration.

For further information on this visa category, please visit the Family-Based Immigrants page of the U.S. Department of State.