A Family Preference Green Card is a U.S. immigrant visa category that allows certain family members of U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents (LPRs) to obtain permanent residency. Unlike the Immediate Relative category, which has no annual cap, Family Preference visas are subject to numerical limits each year, leading to potential wait times. 

Family Preference Green Card Categories

The four family preference categories are:

1. F1 – First Preference (Unmarried Sons and Daughters of U.S. Citizens)

This category is for unmarried adult sons and daughters (21 years or older) of U.S. citizens.

2. F2 – Second Preference (Spouses, Children, and Unmarried Sons and Daughters of Green Card Holders)

This category is divided into two subcategories:

• F2A: Spouses and unmarried children (under 21) of lawful permanent residents (green card holders).
• F2B: Unmarried sons and daughters (21 years or older) of lawful permanent residents.

3. F3 – Third Preference (Married Sons and Daughters of U.S. Citizens)

This category is for married sons and daughters of U.S. citizens, regardless of age. Their spouses and children (under 21) can also immigrate under this category.

4. F4 – Fourth Preference (Siblings of U.S. Citizens)

This category is for brothers and sisters of U.S. citizens, but the U.S. citizen sponsor must be at least 21 years old. Spouses and minor children of the siblings may also qualify.

Each category has annual visa limits, leading to varying wait times based on demand and country of origin.