Family Based Immigration

Persons who believe they are entitled to immigrant status based on a relationship to a U.S. citizen or lawful resident alien should request that relative to file a petition, Form I-130. The petition forms and instructions can be found at the Bureau of Citizenship and Immigration Service or go to their website: U.S. Citizenship & Immigration Services.

In some cases, if the American citizen sponsor is residing abroad, he or she may file the petition with an Department of Homeland Security officer (DHS) or a U.S. consular officer at an American Embassy or Consulate. Persons seeking to immigrate on one of the family based preference categories will qualify for immigrant status only if they have the necessary relationship to a U.S. citizen or Lawful Permanent Resident as described below.

1. Unmarried son or daughter over the age of 21 of a U.S. citizen
   
 

2. Spouse or unmarried son or daughter of a lawful resident
   


3. Married son or daughter of a U.S. citizen
   


4. Brother or sister of a U.S. citizen, U.S. citizen must be 21 or over