Family Based Visas
The following people are eligible to immigrate to the United States, based on a relationship to a U.S. Citizen or a Lawful Permanent Resident:
1. Immediate Relatives (no waiting list for these relatives):
Spouses of U. S. Citizens
Children under 21 of U.S. Citizens and
Parents of an adult U.S. Citizen
2. Preference System Relatives - waiting period depends on availability of immigrant visas; see the Visa Bulletin.
1st Preference: Adult, unmarried children of USCs
2nd Preference: Spouses and children of Permanent Residents (PRs); Adult, unmarried children of PRs
3rd Preference: Married children of USCs
4th Preference: Brothers and sisters of USCs
3. Spouses and Children of Refugees or Asylees - No waiting list
Any person who entered as a refugee, or was granted asylum status after entry, can petition for their spouse and children under 21 to join them in the U.S. The relationship must exist at the time refugee or asylum status was granted. The petition must be filed within 2 years of that approval. Family members enter as asylee relatives and can apply for permanent residency after one year.
4. Battered Spouse and Children of U.S. Citizens and Permanent Residents
Must show abuse, a good faith marriage, and be a person of good moral character. Also known as the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA). Waiting time depends on the status of the abuser.
5. Fiancé of a U.S. Citizen
Must have met within the past two years (unless certain exceptions apply) and must marry within 90 days of entry to the U.S.
1. Immediate Relatives (no waiting list for these relatives):
Spouses of U. S. Citizens
Children under 21 of U.S. Citizens and
Parents of an adult U.S. Citizen
2. Preference System Relatives - waiting period depends on availability of immigrant visas; see the Visa Bulletin.
1st Preference: Adult, unmarried children of USCs
2nd Preference: Spouses and children of Permanent Residents (PRs); Adult, unmarried children of PRs
3rd Preference: Married children of USCs
4th Preference: Brothers and sisters of USCs
3. Spouses and Children of Refugees or Asylees - No waiting list
Any person who entered as a refugee, or was granted asylum status after entry, can petition for their spouse and children under 21 to join them in the U.S. The relationship must exist at the time refugee or asylum status was granted. The petition must be filed within 2 years of that approval. Family members enter as asylee relatives and can apply for permanent residency after one year.
4. Battered Spouse and Children of U.S. Citizens and Permanent Residents
Must show abuse, a good faith marriage, and be a person of good moral character. Also known as the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA). Waiting time depends on the status of the abuser.
5. Fiancé of a U.S. Citizen
Must have met within the past two years (unless certain exceptions apply) and must marry within 90 days of entry to the U.S.
NOTICE: Nothing on this web site should be taken as legal advice for any individual case or situation. All information provided here is general in nature, and should not be relied upon for any specific situation. For sound legal advice, consult an attorney experienced in immigration law.
Sending an email, faxing documents, or completing a questionnaire does not establish an attorney-client relationship with Guyton Thuente, P.A., either express or implied. Only the conclusion of a contractual agreement between Guyton Thuente, P.A. and the person seeking legal representation can formalize such a relationship.
Sending an email, faxing documents, or completing a questionnaire does not establish an attorney-client relationship with Guyton Thuente, P.A., either express or implied. Only the conclusion of a contractual agreement between Guyton Thuente, P.A. and the person seeking legal representation can formalize such a relationship.