Bringing loved ones to the United States is often the most meaningful goal to pursue. U.S. immigration law offers a clear approach to reunite with a spouse, bring your qualifying children to the country or support aging parents. Before starting the administrative steps, understanding who you can actually sponsor and what the process looks like is essential.
Who can sponsor a family member?
U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents (LPRs) are the two groups eligible to petition for a relative for a Green Card. Your immigration status determines which family members you can bring and how quickly the case may move.
If you are a U.S. citizen
U.S. citizens can sponsor certain family members for Green Card status based on their relationship. The first group consists of immediate relatives. This includes your spouse, unmarried children under 21 and your parents (if you are at least 21 years old). There is no annual visa cap for this group, making it the fastest path to a Green Card.
You may also petition under the family preference categories. These relatives are subject to annual visa limits and longer waiting periods:
- First preference (F1): Your unmarried sons and daughters aged 21 or older.
- Third preference (F3): Your married sons and daughters of any age.
- Fourth preference (F4): Your brothers and sisters (you must be at least 21 to petition for them).
The availability of visas depends on the applicant’s priority date and country of chargeability, meaning wait times vary significantly.
If you are a lawful permanent resident
Unlike citizens, Green Card holders have fewer sponsorship options:
- Second preference (F2A): Your spouse and unmarried children aged under 21.
- Second preference (F2B): Your unmarried sons and daughters aged 21 or older.
Green Card holders cannot petition for their parents, married children or siblings. However, if you naturalize while your relative waits for a visa, you can often transfer them into a faster processing line.
How does the process work?
To start, you must file Form I-130 with USCIS to sponsor a relative. After approval and visa availability, your relative can then apply for a Green Card. If they live abroad, they must complete consular processing at a U.S. embassy or consulate. Those already in the U.S. may be eligible to apply through an adjustment of status. Collaborating with an immigration law professional can help you avoid errors and move forward with confidence.