How to Apply for a Family-Based Green Card

Applying for a family-based green card involves a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident sponsoring an eligible relative for permanent residency. The process starts with the sponsor filing Form I-130 with USCIS to prove the family relationship. Once approved, U.S. citizens’ immediate relatives can proceed immediately, while others must wait for a visa number based on the State Department’s Visa Bulletin. 

After a visa becomes available, the beneficiary applies for a green card either through Form I-485 (if in the U.S.) or Form DS-260 via consular processing (if abroad). The applicant must attend a biometrics appointment and an interview to verify eligibility. Upon approval, they receive their green card by mail. Processing times vary depending on the relationship and visa availability.