Family unity has been one of the primary goals of immigration policy in the US.
There are two categories of family-based immigrants: “immediate relatives” and relatives who fall under the “family preference system.” The main difference between these two is that immediate relatives do not have to wait in line in order to become eligible for visas.
Immediate Relatives Category:
The petitioner (the person with legal immigration status in the U.S.) is a U.S. citizen. It is limited to the following relatives of the citizen applicant:
- Spouse
- Parent (if and only if the applicant is aged 21 or older)
- Unmarried children of the citizen (if they are 21 years of age or younger)
If you are an immediate relative of a U.S. citizen, you can become a lawful permanent resident (get a Green Card) based on your family relationship.
Family Preference category:
Certain noncitizens who are family members of U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents are allowed to become lawful permanent residents (get a Green Card) based on specific family relationships:
- First preference (F1) – unmarried sons and daughters (21 years of age and older) of U.S. citizens;
- Second preference (F2A) – spouses and children (unmarried and under 21 years of age) of lawful permanent residents;
- Second preference (F2B) – unmarried sons and daughters (21 years of age and older) of lawful permanent residents;
- Third preference (F3) – married sons and daughters of U.S. citizens; and
- Fourth preference (F4) – brothers and sisters of U.S. citizens (if the U.S. citizen is 21 years of age and older).
If you are looking for a lawyer to help you with immigration issues, it is very important to find an attorney who has knowledge and experience in the areas for which you need help.
We have helped many clients cross the border with issues such as family reunification, investment, work permit, study permit, and inadmissibility. Contact to speak to our experienced Vancouver Immigration lawyer at YA Law.