North America Family Visa
Family Based Immigration
A foreign citizen seeking to live permanently in North America
requires an immigrant visa (IV). To be eligible to apply for an
IV, a foreign citizen must be sponsored by an immediate relative
who is at least 21 years of age and is either a citizen or a
particular country in North America or Lawful Permanent Resident
(that is, a green-card holder).
There are two types of family-based immigrant visas:
Immediate Relative – these visas are based on a close family
relationship with a citizen, such as a spouse, child or parent.
The number of immigrants in these categories is not limited each
fiscal year.
Family Preference – these visas are for specific, more distant,
family relationships with a citizen and some specified
relationships with a Lawful Permanent Resident (LPR). The number
of immigrants in these categories is limited each fiscal year.
Keep in mind that North America citizens can file an immigrant
visa petition for their:
• Spouse
• Son or daughter
• Parent
• Siblings
North America Lawful Permanent Residents can only file an
immigrant visa petition for their:
• Spouse
• Unmarried son or daughter