Family-based petitions are filed by U.S. citizens or permanent residents on behalf of certain family members in order to request that the government give them permission to enter (or stay in) the United States. 

Permanent Residence for the Spouse of a U.S. Citizen

Foreign spouses of U.S. citizens are able to apply for U.S. permanent residence. This is an immediate relative category which allows the applicant to immigrate immediately upon approval. If the foreign national is currently in the United States, it also may be possible for the applicant to obtain permanent residence without returning to their home country.

Fiancé/Fiancée Visas

Someone who is engaged to be married to a U.S. citizen may apply for a non-immigrant visa to enter the United States. Upon entering the United States, the person must marry their U.S. citizen fiancé/fiancée within 90 days. They are then able to file an application for permanent residence.

Permanent Residence for Parents of a U.S. Citizen

Parents of U.S. citizens are able to apply for U.S. permanent residence. This is an immediate relative category which allows the applicant to immigrate immediately upon approval. If the foreign national is currently in the United States, it also may be possible for the applicant to obtain permanent residence without returning to their home country.

Permanent Residence Based on Other Family Relationships

Adult children and siblings of U.S. citizens may apply for permanent residence. Unmarried children and spouses of permanent residents may also apply. Due to quotas in these cases, however, applicants must often wait years before being able to immigrate.