A family-based Green Card is the most common path to permanent status in the U.S. Marriage to a U.S. citizen — or having a close relative who is one — requires no professional achievements, but the process is longer and sensitive to detail: the documents must be prepared correctly and the relationship properly evidenced.
Who it's for
This path suits those who have a close relative — a U.S. citizen or Green Card holder — willing to sponsor them. The fastest category is immediate relatives of U.S. citizens (spouse, parents, unmarried children under 21): there are no annual quotas for them.
Required documents
- Proof of the sponsor's status (U.S. citizenship or Green Card)
- Proof of the relationship or a marriage certificate
- Evidence of a genuine relationship (for marriage cases)
- The sponsor's financial documents (Affidavit of Support)
- The applicant's identification and immigration documents
How we work
- Consultation and assessment of your relationship category
- Preparing the Form I-130 petition from the sponsor
- Gathering evidence (especially for marriage cases)
- Filing for adjustment of status (I-485) or consular processing
- Preparing for the interview at USCIS or the consulate
- Support through to receipt of the Green Card
Timeline and cost
For immediate relatives of a U.S. citizen, the process usually takes from several months to over a year. For other family categories, timing depends on the visa bulletin and can be significantly longer. Service fees are calculated individually; government fees are paid separately.
FAQ
Who can petition for me?
A U.S. citizen (spouse, parent, child over 21, sibling) or a Green Card holder (spouse, unmarried children). Immediate relatives of citizens face no quotas — it's the fastest category.
How long does the process take?
For immediate relatives of a U.S. citizen (spouse, parents, children), from several months to over a year. For other categories, timing depends on visa quotas and can be considerably longer.
Can I work while the case is pending?
Yes — if you file for adjustment of status inside the U.S., you can apply in parallel for a work permit (EAD) and a travel document.
What is scrutinized in marriage cases?
USCIS carefully verifies that the marriage is genuine, not a sham. It's important to prepare the documents correctly and gather evidence of a shared life — this is where cases often stumble.
Find out if the family path fits you
Book a free consultation — we'll review your situation and documents.