Family-based immigration allows U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents (Green Card holders) to sponsor their relatives for immigration. Approximately 480,000 visas are allocated annually for family-based immigrants.
Immediate Relatives
No quota limits, no waiting
U.S. citizens can petition for the following immediate relatives without waiting for a priority date:
- IR-1/CR-1: Spouse of U.S. citizen
- IR-2: Unmarried child under 21 of U.S. citizen
- IR-5: Parent of U.S. citizen (petitioner must be 21+)
Family Preference Categories
These five categories are numerically limited and subject to the visa bulletin. Each card shows this month's Final Action Date (Chart A) and Date for Filing (Chart B) for applicants born in mainland China, with the change from last month. Open a category for all regions, the historical trend and eligibility.
Current dates by category
Application Process
- File Form I-130: U.S. citizen or green card holder (petitioner) submits the immigrant petition
- Wait for Priority Date: If applicable, wait for your priority date to become current
- File I-485 or DS-260:
- In the U.S.: File I-485 Adjustment of Status
- Outside the U.S.: Apply for immigrant visa through consular processing
- Interview: Complete the interview process
- Receive Green Card: Upon approval, receive permanent resident status
Important Notes
- Priority Date: The date I-130 was received, determines your place in line
- CSPA (Child Status Protection Act): May protect certain children's age calculations
- Maintain Eligibility: Must maintain the qualifying relationship during the wait