Green Card for Family Preference Immigrants
Family means everything—and for many, the dream of reuniting loved ones in the United States is one of the most important goals of their immigration journey. The Family Preference Green Card program offers a legal pathway for certain relatives of U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents to live permanently in the country.
At Immigration Universe Attorneys, we understand that every family story is unique. Led by Attorney Ileana Rivera, our mission is to guide you through each step of your immigration process with honesty, compassion, and clarity.
What Is a Family Preference Green Card?
A Family Preference Green Card is an immigrant visa category that allows certain family members of U.S. citizens or permanent residents to become lawful permanent residents themselves. It differs from the Immediate Relative Green Card because it applies to extended family members and is subject to annual numerical limits.
This means that not all petitions are processed immediately. Applicants are placed in a queue based on their priority date, which determines when their visa number becomes available according to the Visa Bulletin published by the U.S. Department of State.
Who Qualifies for a Family Preference Green Card?
Eligibility depends on your relationship to a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident. Below are the main preference categories recognized by U.S. immigration law.
| Category | Eligible Relationship | Who Can Apply |
| F1 | Unmarried sons and daughters (21 or older) of U.S. citizens | U.S. citizen petitions for adult child |
| F2A | Spouses and unmarried children (under 21) of lawful permanent residents | Green Card holder petitions for spouse or child |
| F2B | Unmarried sons and daughters (21 or older) of lawful permanent residents | Green Card holder petitions for adult child |
| F3 | Married sons and daughters of U.S. citizens | U.S. citizen petitions for married child and family |
| F4 | Brothers and sisters of U.S. citizens (if petitioner is 21 or older) | U.S. citizen petitions for sibling |
Each category has different processing times, and the number of available visas per year is limited. Understanding where your case fits is essential to set realistic expectations.
How Do Priority Dates Work?
Every time a family petition is filed using Form I-130, USCIS assigns a priority date. This date acts as your place in line. When your priority date becomes “current” according to the Visa Bulletin, your case can move forward for either consular processing or adjustment of status.
Because the U.S. limits the number of visas per category and country, wait times can vary dramatically—from months to over a decade in certain cases, especially for nationals from Mexico, the Philippines, India, or China.
Adjustment of Status vs. Consular Processing
There are two main ways to obtain your Green Card once your priority date is current.
Adjustment of Status (AOS)
If you are already in the United States on a valid visa, you may be eligible to apply for AOS using Form I-485 without leaving the country. This process allows you to remain in the U.S. while your case is pending.
Consular Processing
If you live outside the U.S., you will complete your immigration interview at a U.S. consulate in your home country. After approval, you can travel to the United States as a permanent resident.
| Process Type | Where It Happens | Key Benefit | Typical Timeframe |
| Adjustment of Status | Inside the U.S. | No need to travel abroad | 8–14 months |
| Consular Processing | Abroad | Simpler for applicants outside the U.S. | 12–18 months |
An experienced immigration attorney will determine which process best fits your circumstances and help you prepare the necessary documentation to avoid delays.
Common Mistakes That Delay Family Green Card Applications
Even small errors can create major setbacks in immigration cases. Some of the most frequent mistakes include:
- Submitting incomplete or incorrect forms.
- Failing to include certified translations or required supporting documents.
- Misunderstanding eligibility for the correct family category.
- Moving without updating your mailing address with USCIS.
- Responding late to a Request for Evidence (RFE).
Working with a qualified attorney ensures that every detail of your petition is handled correctly and that you receive professional guidance throughout your case.
How Immigration Universe Attorneys Can Help You
At Immigration Universe Attorneys, we do more than file paperwork. Our team helps families reunite by providing:
- A complete review of your immigration history and eligibility.
- Strategic preparation of your petition to reduce delays.
- Ongoing communication so you always know the status of your case.
- Legal representation before USCIS and, if needed, in immigration court.
Attorney Ileana Rivera, member of the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA), has over ten years of experience handling family petitions, waivers, and adjustment of status applications.
Our firm proudly serves families across Orlando, Kissimmee, Winter Park, and surrounding areas.
👉 Learn more about our legal support for families here: Immigration Services.
Schedule Your Confidential Consultation
Let our team help you understand your rights and legal options.
Phone: +1 (407) 818-1244
Email: service@immigration-uni.com
Address: 7901 Kingspointe Blvd, Ste. 8, Orlando, FL 32819
WhatsApp: +1 (407) 720-8983
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Who qualifies for a Family Preference Green Card?
U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents can petition for certain relatives such as adult children, married children, or siblings under the Family Preference system. - How long does it take to receive a Family Preference Green Card?
Processing times depend on the visa category and the applicant’s country of origin. Some cases are processed in months, while others may take several years due to annual limits. - Can I apply while living in the U.S.?
Yes. If you are legally in the U.S., you can apply for Adjustment of Status. If you are abroad, you will complete Consular Processing through your nearest U.S. consulate. - What happens if my petitioner becomes a U.S. citizen during the process?
If a lawful permanent resident who petitioned for you becomes a U.S. citizen, your case may move to a faster category. Your attorney can request reclassification. - Do I need an immigration lawyer for this process?
While it’s not mandatory, having an attorney greatly improves accuracy, reduces risks of denial, and ensures that your application complies with current immigration law.
