Family of a US citizen
A U.S. citizen’s immediate relatives are their spouse, unmarried children under 21 and parents. To petition for a parent, the U.S. citizen must be at least 21. Other family relationships follow different categories and rules. Age, marital status and the petitioner’s status should be reviewed from the outset.
Immediate relatives and marriage
For spouses of U.S. citizens, CR1 identifies conditional residence when the marriage is less than two years old on the date residence is obtained; with two years or more, IR1 applies. The relevant date is admission as a resident or approval of adjustment of status, not the petition date. A bona fide marriage must be demonstrated. Conditional residence lasts two years and requires a separate removal-of-conditions process.
Financial sponsorship
When required, the sponsor submits Form I-864, the Affidavit of Support. Income generally must reach 125% of the federal poverty guidelines for household size. Exceptions include certain active-duty military sponsors petitioning for a spouse or child. If income is insufficient, a qualifying joint sponsor may help meet the requirement.
Sponsor domicile
The sponsor must have US domicile. Someone living abroad may need to demonstrate that it has been maintained or will be re-established by the relative’s entry as a resident. Stating an intention to return does not replace documentation; a joint sponsor does not remove this requirement.
From family petition to residence
Generally, the U.S. citizen files I-130 to establish the family relationship. Someone abroad follows consular processing; someone in the United States must establish eligibility for adjustment of status through I-485. I-130 approval alone does not grant residence, status or work authorization. Immediate relatives are not subject to an annual visa quota but still must complete processing and meet individual requirements.
Removing marriage-based conditions
For joint petitions with the spouse, I-751 generally must be filed during the 90 days before the two-year conditional residence expires. Filing without the spouse is possible in certain circumstances and follows specific rules, such as in cases of death, divorce or abuse. This is not simply a card renewal; the circumstances and deadline should be assessed before expiration.
How we can help
01 · Understand
Your history and goals guide the initial assessment and identification of relevant issues.
02 · Organize
The team identifies the information and evidence needed and explains the scope of the proposed work.
03 · Follow through
You receive guidance on the stages of our services and next steps, according to the agreed scope.
Frequently asked questions
Is every relative of a US citizen an immediate relative?
No. The definition is specific. Adult children, married children and siblings may involve other categories, visa availability and separate requirements.
Who can petition for an immediate relative?
A US citizen may petition for immediate relatives defined by law. To petition for a parent, the citizen must be at least 21.
What are the financial requirements?
The 125% guideline described above generally applies. The team reviews household size, income, documentation and any exceptions.
Can I use a joint sponsor?
Yes, when permitted and needed, provided that person meets the applicable financial sponsorship requirements.
Does the sponsor need to live in the US?
US domicile or its re-establishment must be demonstrated as explained above. The situation of someone temporarily abroad needs assessment.
What is the first step?
Book a free interview to discuss the family relationship, the sponsor’s situation and the applicable pathway. Visa Finder provides guidance on preparation and the stages of service.
How can I contact Visa Finder?
Phone: +1 (385) 835 8989. WhatsApp: +1 (385) 536 9152. Email: info@visafinder.com. Office: 1629 K St NW, Suite 300, Washington, DC 20006. Arrange your visit before traveling.
Who provides legal services?
Visa Finder’s legal services are provided by attorneys licensed in the United States. The service considers family relationships, documentation and each case’s circumstances.
Do I need to send documents when I first get in touch?
The team will explain which information is needed and the appropriate channel for sending private documents.
Can approval or a timeline be guaranteed?
No. Government decisions and processing times depend on the authorities and the circumstances of each case.
Information in context
Informational content. Eligibility, documentation and strategy depend on individual assessment and the rules applicable to the case.
Official reference ↗USCIS — residence through an immediate relative ↗USCIS — marriage-based conditional residence ↗Financial sponsorship requirements ↗