The process and time required to obtain a Green Card through family sponsorship vary depending on the relationship between the sponsor and the applicant.

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You do not need to visit our office in person to process your family immigration case. It can be done remotely.

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A. "Immediate Relative" Family Immigration

• Sponsor's Eligibility: U.S. citizen aged 21 or older

• Eligible Applicants: The sponsor's spouse, parent, or unmarried child under 21 years of age

• The process differs if the applicant resides inside or outside the U.S.

  • If residing in the U.S., the applicant can apply for a Green Card through USCIS. Even those who have lost their lawful status can obtain a Green Card (except those who entered the U.S. illegally).

  • The processing time as of 2024 is typically 6 to 18 months.*

  • If residing outside the U.S., the applicant applies for a Green Card through USCIS and will have an interview at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in their country approximately one year later.

  • The processing time as of 2024 is typically 12 to 20 months.*

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B. Family Immigration First Preference A (F1)

• Sponsor's Eligibility: U.S. citizen aged 21 or older

• Eligible Applicants: The sponsor's unmarried child aged 21 or older

• The processing time as of 2024 is typically 7 to 8 years.*

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C. Family Immigration Second Preference (F2A)

• Sponsor's Eligibility: U.S. permanent resident aged 21 or older

• Eligible Applicants: The sponsor's spouse or unmarried child under 21 years of age

• The processing time as of 2024 is typically 3 to 4 years.*

• When the priority date becomes current, both the applicant and their unmarried children under 21 years of age can receive Green Cards.

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D. Family Immigration Second Preference (F2B)

• Sponsor's Eligibility: U.S. permanent resident aged 21 or older

• Eligible Applicants: The sponsor's unmarried child aged 21 or older

• The processing time as of 2024 is typically 7 years.*

• When the priority date becomes current, both the applicant and their unmarried children under 21 years of age can receive Green Cards.

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E. Family Immigration Third Preference (F3)

• Eligible Applicants: Married children of U.S. citizens

• The processing time as of 2024 is typically 14 years.*

• When the priority date becomes current, the applicant, their spouse, and their unmarried children under 21 years of age can receive Green Cards.

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F. Family Immigration Fourth Preference (F4)

• Eligible Applicants: Siblings of U.S. citizens aged 21 or older

• The processing time as of 2024 is typically 16 years.*

• When the priority date becomes current, the applicant, their spouse, and their unmarried children under 21 years of age can receive Green Cards.

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(*Processing times may be longer or shorter.)