Removing Conditions on Your Marriage Green Card
The U.S. immigration system recognizes the profound importance of family unity, offering pathways for U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents (green card holders) to help their relatives obtain green cards and live in the U.S.
These pathways are broadly divided into two main categories: Immediate Relatives of U.S. Citizens and Family Preference Categories.
Who Qualifies as An Immediate Relative?
This classification is specifically for the closest familial ties to U.S. citizens. A significant advantage of this category is the absence of annual numerical limitations on the issuance of immigrant visas, often leading to a more expedited path to obtaining a green card.
The immediate relatives encompass:
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Spouses of U.S. citizens
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Unmarried children under 21 years old of U.S. citizens.
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Parents of U.S. citizens (provided the citizen is at least 21 years old)
What are Family Preference Categories?
This category accommodates specific family relationships with U.S. citizens and certain relationships with lawful permanent residents that fall outside the scope of immediate relatives. In contrast to the immediate relative category, the family preference categories are subject to annual numerical restrictions, which can result in waiting periods for visa availability.
These categories are further divided into preferences:
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First Preference (F1): Unmarried sons and daughters (21 years of age or older) of U.S. citizens, and their minor children.
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Second Preference (F2): Spouses, minor children (under 21), and unmarried sons and daughters (21 or older) of lawful permanent residents. This category is further divided into:
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F2A: Spouses and children (unmarried and under 21 years of age) of lawful permanent residents.
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F2B: Unmarried sons and daughters (21 years of age or older) of lawful permanent residents.
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Third Preference (F3): Married sons and daughters of U.S. citizens, and their spouses and minor children.
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Fourth Preference (F4): Brothers and sisters of adult U.S. citizens (petitioner must be 21 years of age or older), and their spouses and minor children.
Understanding these categories is the first step in navigating the family-based immigration process. The specific category under which a relative qualifies will determine the eligibility requirements, the process for application, and the potential waiting times involved in obtaining a Family Green Card.
Helping Your Family Obtain Green Cards: Understanding the Application Process
Navigating the path to a Family Green Card involves understanding two primary processing routes: Consular Processing (CP) and Adjustment of Status (AOS).
The route your relative will take depends largely on whether they are currently inside or outside the United States. Regardless of the chosen path, the initial step often involves the U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident filing an immigrant petition (Form I-130) on behalf of their eligible relative.
Adjustment of Status: Applying from Within the U.S.
Adjustment of Status is the process that allows eligible relatives who are already physically present in the United States to apply for and obtain their green card without having to return to their home country for visa processing. This option is generally available if the relative entered the U.S. legally and meets specific eligibility requirements.
Consular Processing: Applying from Outside the U.S.
Consular Processing is the procedure by which eligible relatives ( the “beneficiary” ) who are outside the United States apply for an immigrant visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate in their country of origin or a third country.
Considering the DIY Route? We're Here to Support You with Our Document Review Service
We understand that some individuals prefer to navigate the Green Card application process independently. We respect your choice and are here to offer professional support where you need it most. While you take the lead in preparing your forms and gathering your documentation, our Document Review Service provides you with the critical expertise to help ensure accuracy and completeness.
Our Document Review Service includes:
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Examination of all completed forms for accuracy, completeness, and proper completion.
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Review of supporting documents to ensure they meet USCIS requirements and adequately support your case.
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Finding potential red flags or areas of concern that may require further attention.
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Constructive feedback and recommendations to strengthen your application before submission.
While you manage the preparation process, our Document Review Service acts as a valuable safeguard, providing you with the peace of mind that comes from having experienced eyes review your critical paperwork. Empower yourself with knowledge and take control of your application, knowing that Ding Babb Law Group is here to provide expert support when you need it most.
🔍 Additional Resources
🔗 I-130, Petition for Alien Relative: Click here to read more.
🔗 I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status: Click here to read more.
🔗 I-765, Application for Employment Authorization: Click here to read more.
🔗 I-131, Application for Travel Documents, Parole Documents, and Arrival/Departure Records: Click here to read more.
🔗 I-864, Affidavit of Support Under Section 213A of the INA: Click here to read more.
🔗 I-864P, 2025 HHS Poverty Guidelines for Affidavit of Support: Click here to read more.
🔗 I-693, Report of Immigration Medical Examination and Vaccination Record: Click here to read more.
🔗 USCIS Filing Fee: Click here to read more.
🔗 Consular Processing: Click here to read more.
🔗 Visa Bulletin: Click the latest Visa Bulletin to see priority date movement and green card availability.
🔗 USCIS Immigrant Fee: Click here to read more.
🔗 Case Status: Click here to check the status of your case online using your USCIS Receipt Number.
🕒 Processing Times: Click here to check current USCIS processing times.
📦 Address Changes: All non-immigrants and permanent residents are required to notify USCIS of any address change within 10 days of moving. Click here to create an account and submit your change of address online.
