Family Based
Family-based immigration lets U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents sponsor certain relatives. The system has two tracks: Immediate Relatives of U.S. citizens (no annual cap) and the Family Preference categories (limited visas, so waiting lines apply).
Types of FB's
F1- Family Preference
U.S. citizen
Unmarried sons and daughters 21 or older
F2A - Family Preference
Permanent resitdent
Spouses and unmerried children under 21
F2B- Family Preference
Permanent resident
Unmarried sons and daughters 21 or older
F3 - Family Preference
U.S. citizen
Married sons and daughters (any age)
F4 - Family Preference
U.S. Citizen (21 +)
Brothers and sisters
Immediate Relatives
Immediate Relatives are the closest family members of U.S. citizens. This is the most favorable track because there's no annual limit on visas — meaning no waiting line for a visa number.
Who qualifies
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Spouse of a U.S. citizen (IR-1 / CR-1).
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Unmarried child under 21 of a U.S. citizen (IR-2).
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Parent of a U.S. citizen who is at least 21 years old (IR-5).
How it works
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The U.S. citizen files Form I-130 to establish the relationship.
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Because there's no visa wait, relatives in the U.S. may often file Form I-485 to adjust status — sometimes concurrently with the I-130.
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Relatives abroad complete immigrant visa processing at a U.S. consulate.
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The sponsor files an Affidavit of Support; the relative attends an interview and, if approved, receives the green card.
Snapshot — Sponsor: U.S. citizen only. Annual cap: none. Affidavit of Support: required. Best for: spouses, parents, and young children of U.S. citizens seeking the fastest family path.