A U.S. citizen can petition for a visa for their immediate relatives. If the relative is already in the U.S., they may apply to adjust their status to legal permanent resident in most cases.

Eligible Immediate Relatives include:

• Spouse
• Unmarried children under the age of 21
• Parents (petitioners must be over 21 years old)

Following the U.S. Supreme Court’s landmark decision in United States v. Windsor, which recognized federal benefits for married same-sex couples, USCIS now reviews immigration petitions for same-sex spouses in the same manner as those for opposite-sex spouses.

Immediate relatives receive special immigration priority — they do not need to wait for a visa number and can apply for adjustment of status immediately or receive a visa upon entry to the U.S.

Requirements

• The sponsoring U.S. citizen must file a separate Form I-130 Petition for Alien Relative for each immediate relative
• Documentation proving the family relationship must be submitted with each petition

Our Role in Your Success

Millions have immigrated to the U.S. seeking new opportunities with their families. Family unification is central to our mission. We provide clear advice on relationship documentation and potential inadmissibility issues so you fully understand the immigration requirements and process.

If your relative qualifies, we will prepare all forms, gather supporting documents, and guide you through the process — including preparation and representation for interviews at USCIS offices or U.S. consulates.