You must be a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident (green card holder)
You can only petition for specific family members (spouse, children, parents, or siblings)
For spousal petitions, the marriage must be legally valid and not entered into solely for immigration benefits
You must meet minimum income requirements (125% of Federal Poverty Guidelines) to financially sponsor your relative
Your relative must be admissible to the U.S. and not have disqualifying immigration violations or criminal history
Processing times vary significantly based on the family relationship, the petitioner's status, visa availability, and USCIS backlog.
USCIS reviews the petition for completeness and eligibility.
USCIS reviews the petition for completeness and eligibility.
After approval, USCIS forwards the case to the National Visa Center.
After approval, USCIS forwards the case to the National Visa Center.
The NVC collects fees, forms, and supporting documents.
The NVC collects fees, forms, and supporting documents.
Relative completes medical exam and attends embassy interview.
Relative completes medical exam and attends embassy interview.
Upon approval, relative receives immigrant visa to enter the U.S.
Upon approval, relative receives immigrant visa to enter the U.S.
Physical green card is mailed to U.S. address after entry.
Physical green card is mailed to U.S. address after entry.
