Getting a Family-Based Green Card

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Do you have a close family member who is a citizen or lawful permanent resident of the United States? If so, you may qualify for a U.S. green card. However, how soon you will receive the green card depends on a number of factors, including your relationship to the potential U.S. "petitioner," whether that person is a citizen or a permanent resident (green card holder), and which country you are from. Learn more here.

Eligibility for a Family-Based Green Card

Green Card Through a U.S. Family Member: Who Qualifies?
If you're related by blood, marriage, or adoption to a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, you yourself may qualify for a U.S. green card.
When Children Can Immigrate to the U.S. With Their Parents, as "Derivatives"
Learn when children can piggyback on a parent's right to immigrate to the U.S., and when they'll instead need a separate family relationship and petition filed on their behalf.
How Your Naturalizing Will Help Your Foreign-Born Children Immigrate
How permanent residents can speed up the process of bringing their foreign-born children to the U.S. by obtaining citizenship.
How soon can the U.S.-born child of an undocumented immigrant petition for the parent?
The long wait until a U.S. citizen child turns 21 and becomes eligible to sponsor a parent.
Marriage-Based Visas and Green Cards
Click here for articles focused on how fiance or marital relationships qualify someone for a green card.

Applying for a Family-Based Green Card

Applying for a Green Card Through Family: Overview of the Process
A step-by-step look at what's involved in obtaining lawful permanent residence for the foreign-born relative of a U.S. citizen or resident.
Tasks Your Petitioning U.S. Family Member Must Handle
Learn about the role played by family sponsors petitioning for immigrants, who must start off the process and play an active role throughout.
How Long Is the Wait for Your Priority Date to Become Current?
How would-be immigrants in the preference categories" can track their progress toward visa availability using the Visa Bulletin."
Adjustment of Status Procedures
Click here if you'll be applying for your green card in the U.S., to access numerous articles and in-depth guidance.
Consular Processing Procedures
All about the forms, documents, and interview requirements for immigrants coming from overseas or attending their visa interview at a U.S. consulate.
Dealing With Delay or Denial of Your Green Card
Articles on what to do when things go wrong in your quest for U.S. residence.

Frequently Asked Questions About Family-Based Green Card

How long is a new permanent resident visa good for?
Making sure to enter the U.S. with your new immigrant visa before its expiration date.

Additional Resources

How to Get a Green Card
This hands-on guide provides a separate chapter on each type of qualifying family relationship, and how to apply for a green card based on it.