Define: Immediate Relative

An immediate relative refers to a close family member of a U.S. citizen, including spouses, parents, and unmarried children under the age of 21.

As a U.S. citizen, you can file a Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, on behalf of your immediate relative to initiate the green card sponsorship process.

No, there is no numerical limit on the number of immediate relatives that can be sponsored for a green card. Immediate relatives are not subject to any visa quotas or waiting lists.

Yes, as a green card holder, you can sponsor your immediate relative, but there may be a longer waiting period due to visa quotas and preference categories.

Yes, same-sex spouses are treated the same as opposite-sex spouses for immigration purposes. You can sponsor your same-sex spouse as an immediate relative if you are a U.S. citizen or a green card holder.

Yes, stepchildren can be sponsored as immediate relatives if the marriage creating the stepchild relationship occurred before the child turned 18.

No, you must be at least 21 years old to sponsor your parent as an immediate relative. However, if you are a U.S. citizen and your parent entered the U.S. legally, you may be able to file a Form I-130 for them as a preference relative.

No, siblings are not considered immediate relatives. However, if you are a U.S. citizen, you may be able to sponsor your sibling as a preference relative, but there may be a significant waiting period.

In most cases, immediate relatives can apply for a work permit (Employment Authorization Document) while their green card application is pending. This allows them to legally work in the U.S. during the processing period.

Yes, immediate relatives can generally travel outside the U.S. while their green card application is pending. However, they must ensure they have the necessary travel documents, such as a valid passport and visa, to re-enter the U.S.