USA Visa

US Family-Based Green Card Visa | International Consulting Services (ICS)

If you’re hoping to reunite with family members settled in the USA, International Consulting Services (ICS) offers guidance on the US Family-Based Green Card Visa process. This visa allows family members, including spouses, children, parents, and siblings, of U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents (LPRs) to apply for a green card, allowing them to reside permanently in the United States. Note that distant relatives, such as grandparents and cousins, are not eligible under this program.

What is the US Family-Based Green Card Visa?

The Family-Based Green Card Visa allows U.S. citizens and LPRs to sponsor eligible relatives for a green card, giving them the right to live and work in the U.S. long-term. With this visa, beneficiaries may:

  • Live and work in the U.S. permanently
  • Obtain a driver’s license and travel to and from the U.S.
  • Apply for U.S. citizenship if eligibility requirements are met and they maintain good legal standing

Eligible Family-Based Green Card Categories

  1. Immediate Relatives of U.S. Citizens

    • Spouse
    • Unmarried children under 21
    • Parents (if the U.S. citizen sponsor is over 21)

    Immediate relatives are prioritized, and there is no annual limit on green cards issued in this category.

  2. Family Preference Relatives of U.S. Citizens

    • Unmarried adult children (over 21)
    • Married children of any age
    • Siblings (if the U.S. citizen sponsor is over 21)

    Congress places annual limits on family preference categories, so applicants may face a waiting period for visa availability.

  3. Relatives of Green Card Holders (Second Preference Category)

    • Includes spouses, unmarried children under 21, and unmarried adult children of green card holders.

Application Process for Family-Based Green Cards

The application process may differ based on the applicant’s location (inside or outside the U.S.):

  • For Immediate Relatives Within the U.S.

    • Single-phase process: Applicants may file Form I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status) concurrently with the I-130 petition if they meet specific entry requirements.
    • Two-phase process: U.S. citizens file Form I-130, and once approved, the beneficiary files I-485 with the approval notice (I-797).

  • For Applicants Outside the U.S.

    • Consular Processing: After the I-130 is approved, it is sent to the National Visa Center (NVC) for processing, enabling the relative to obtain a visa to enter the U.S. and apply for a green card.

How ICS Can Assist with Family-Based Green Card Applications

At ICS, we offer tailored assistance for the entire Family-Based Green Card process, ensuring every step is clear and precise. Our services include:

  • Guidance on Eligibility and Documentation: We assist in determining the correct classification, gathering required documents, and establishing proof of familial relationships.
  • Application Preparation and Submission: From preparing Form I-130 to filing Form I-485, we ensure your petitions are completed accurately.
  • Support for Consular Processing: We help applicants outside the U.S. with consular processing, from filing I-130 to ensuring a smooth process with the NVC.
  • Affidavit of Support: We guide sponsors through preparing this document, which verifies the applicant will not become a public charge.

With over 20 years of experience, ICS is well-versed in the intricacies of U.S. immigration law and maintains a strong track record of successful visa processing.

For assistance, contact ICS:

Follow us on Instagram at @internationalservices123 to stay updated on the latest immigration news and services. ICS is dedicated to helping families come together in the U.S.

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