U.S. immigration law allows certain foreign nationals who are family members of U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents to become lawful permanent residents (obtain a Green Card) based on specific family relationships. If you are the spouse, minor child, or parent of a U.S. citizen, please visit the Green Card for Immediate Relatives of U.S. Citizens page for guidance on how to apply for a Green Card.
Other family members eligible to apply for a Green Card fall under the following family “preference immigrant” categories:
- First preference (F1) – Unmarried sons and daughters (21 years and older) of U.S. citizens.
- Second preference (F2A) – Spouses and children (unmarried and under 21) of lawful permanent residents.
- Second preference (F2B) – Unmarried sons and daughters (21 years and older) of lawful permanent residents.
- Third preference (F3) – Married sons and daughters of U.S. citizens.
- Fourth preference (F4) – Brothers and sisters of U.S. citizens (if the U.S. citizen is 21 years of age or older).
This page offers detailed information for individuals in the U.S. who wish to apply for lawful permanent resident status based on a family preference category while in the U.S. This process is known as “adjustment of status.”