The United States government has clarified the family relationships that may qualify for a Green Card through its family preference immigrant programme. This programme applies to selected relatives of US citizens and lawful permanent residents, with each relationship placed under a specific preference category. The rules do not cover immediate relatives of US citizens, including spouses, minor children, and parents, who follow a separate application process.
The US Citizenship and Immigration Services has listed the relatives who may qualify under the family preference categories. These categories include unmarried sons and daughters aged 21 or older of US citizens, who fall under the first preference category. Additionally, spouses and unmarried children under 21 of lawful permanent residents are eligible under the second preference category, denoted as F2A.
Other eligible categories include unmarried sons and daughters aged 21 or older of lawful permanent residents, classified under the F2B category. Married sons and daughters of US citizens fall under the third preference category, F3. Furthermore, brothers and sisters of US citizens, where the sponsoring US citizen is at least 21 years old, are eligible under the fourth preference category, F4.
Applicants already in the United States may seek lawful permanent resident status through a process known as adjustment of status. This procedure allows eligible applicants to change their immigration status while remaining in the country, instead of leaving to complete the process abroad. However, requirements differ between the preference categories.
To apply, applicants must establish which category matches their family relationship before starting the application. The US government has emphasized that family-based immigration is divided into preference categories, each with different eligibility rules and visa limits. This clarification aims to guide eligible relatives through the application process.
According to previous reports, US citizens aged 21 and above can sponsor certain family members, including siblings, while lawful permanent residents have more limited sponsorship rights. The US government's clarification provides further guidance on family-based immigration, helping eligible applicants navigate the Green Card application process.
The US government's move aims to provide transparency and clarity on the eligibility criteria for family members seeking a Green Card. By outlining the specific preference categories and eligibility rules, the government hopes to facilitate a smoother application process for those seeking permanent resident status in the US.
Key points
- The US government has specified five categories of family members eligible for a Green Card through its family preference immigrant programme.
- Eligible categories include unmarried sons and daughters of US citizens, spouses and children of lawful permanent residents, and married sons and daughters of US citizens.
- Applicants in the US can apply for permanent resident status through adjustment of status, provided they meet the requirements for their specific preference category.
