Green Card for Family Members of a Permanent Resident
To promote family unity, immigration law allows lawful permanent residents of the United States (also called LPRs or Green Card holders) to petition for certain eligible family members to obtain immigrant visas to come and live permanently in the United States or to adjust their status to LPRs if they are currently living in the United States.
Eligibility
As a Green Card holder (permanent resident), you may petition for your:
- Spouse;
- Unmarried children under 21; and
- Unmarried son or daughter of any age
Congress has limited the number of family members who may immigrate under these categories each year, so there is generally a waiting period before an immigrant visa becomes available. For additional information, please see our Family of Green Card Holders webpage.
How to File
You may apply online or by paper.
File Online
Create a USCIS online account to file online and:
- Submit evidence and pay fees electronically;
- Receive case status updates about your case and see complete case history;
- Communicate with us securely and directly; and
- Respond to requests for evidence.
If you already have a USCIS online account, simply sign into your account to get started.
File by Paper
You must:
- Read the instructions for Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative;
- Complete and sign your Form I-130;
- Pay the filing fees, if applicable; and
- Provide all required evidence and supporting documentation.
Want status updates about your case? Learn how to create a USCIS online account to stay informed.
After You File
Once we receive your Form I-130, you will receive a:
- Receipt notice confirming we received your petition;
- Biometric services notice, if applicable;
- Notice to appear for an interview, if required; and
- Notice of our decision.
Forms and Fees
- Form I-130
- Use our Fee Calculator to help determine your fee.