Family-based visas are designed to reunite U.S. citizens with their immediate family members. This is the largest category of immigrant visas issued by the United States each year. If you have a qualifying relative who is a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident, you may be eligible to immigrate to the United States through this path.

Types of Family-Based Visas:

• Immediate Relative Visas: These visas are available for spouses, unmarried children under 21, and parents of U.S. citizens. There is no wait time or numerical limit for these visas.
  
  
• Preference System Visas: These visas are available for married children (over 21) and siblings of U.S. citizens, as well as unmarried children (over 21) of lawful permanent residents. These visas are subject to numerical limits and wait times can vary depending on the visa category and the applicant’s home country.
  
  
• Fiancé(e) Visas (K-1): These visas allow foreign nationals who are engaged to marry a U.S. citizen to enter the United States for the purpose of getting married. After marrying, the foreign national can then apply for adjustment of status to become a lawful permanent resident.
  
  

Benefits of Family-Based Immigration: The primary benefit of family-based immigration is the opportunity to live permanently in the United States and be close to your family members. Once you become a lawful permanent resident, you will be eligible to apply for U.S. citizenship after meeting certain requirements.