The processing time for a green card through a family member can vary depending on various factors such as the relationship category, country of origin, and USCIS processing times. On average, it can take anywhere from several months to a few years to obtain a green card through a family member.
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The processing time for obtaining a green card through a family member can vary significantly depending on several factors. These factors include the relationship category, country of origin, and the current processing times of the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). On average, it can take anywhere from several months to a few years to complete the green card application process.
One of the key factors that determine the processing time is the relationship category. Immediate relatives of U.S. citizens, including spouses, unmarried children under 21, and parents of U.S. citizens who are over 21, generally experience shorter processing times compared to other family-based categories. According to the USCIS, immediate relatives have a higher priority and there are no numerical limits on the visas available for them.
However, other family-based preference categories, such as unmarried sons or daughters of U.S. citizens, married sons or daughters of U.S. citizens, and siblings of U.S. citizens, may have longer waiting times. This is because these categories have annual numerical limits on the visas that can be issued, which can result in a backlog and longer processing times.
In addition to the relationship category, the country of origin can also affect the processing time. Each country has a limited number of visas available each year, and if the demand exceeds the supply, applicants from oversubscribed countries may face longer wait times. On the other hand, applicants from countries with lower demand may experience shorter processing times.
It is also important to note that the USCIS processing times can vary from time to time due to various factors, such as changes in immigration policies, shifts in application volumes, or other external factors. Therefore, it is essential for applicants to regularly check the USCIS website or consult with an immigration attorney for the most up-to-date processing time estimates.
To further illustrate the timeline for obtaining a green card through a family member, renowned immigration attorney Leon Wildes once said, “It is not uncommon for the immigration process to take several years for someone seeking a green card through a family member. Patience and proper planning are essential.”
Interesting facts about obtaining a green card through a family member:
- The U.S. allows citizens and permanent residents to sponsor certain close family members for immigration, enabling them to obtain a green card.
- The immediate relatives of U.S. citizens, such as spouses and children under 21, have the highest priority and do not face numerical limits.
- Family-based preference categories have annual numerical limits, resulting in longer processing times for certain relationships.
- The USCIS periodically updates its processing times, and these can vary based on various factors.
- The country of origin can impact the processing time, with oversubscribed countries experiencing longer wait times.
- Patience and careful planning are crucial when navigating the green card process through a family member.
Table: Average Processing Times for Family-Based Green Cards (approximate estimates)
Relationship Category Processing Time
Immediate Relatives Several months to 1 year
Unmarried children of citizens 1 to 5 years
Married children of citizens 1.5 to 8 years
Brothers/sisters of citizens 10 to 15 years
Please note that the table above provides approximate estimates and the actual processing times can vary for each individual case. It is advisable to consult with the USCIS or an immigration attorney for specific and up-to-date information on processing times.
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Family-Based Green Card
Family-based green card type Typical wait time Parents of U.S. citizens 10.5 to 16 months Minor children of U.S. citizens 12 to 24 months Minor children of green card holders 24 to 36 months Unmarried, adult children of U.S. citizens 7 to 20 years (dependent on country)
The main factor in how long it takes to get a green card is how long you have to wait between filing the family relationship form and applying for the green card. If your spouse is a U.S. citizen and you currently live in the United States, it takes on average 10-13 months to get a marriage-based green card.
For parents of U.S. citizens, the process usually takes 10-13 months. There is no limit on the number of green cards issued in this category. Therefore, you can generally get a green card based on your parent relationship within one year.
Video answer to “How long does it take to get a green card through family member?”
This YouTube video provides detailed instructions on obtaining a green card for your parents. Eligibility criteria include being a US citizen, over 21 years old, and having established US domicile. The process involves completing Form I-130, paying fees, and submitting the petition to USCIS. After approval, your parents will need to undergo an interview and medical examination. The final steps include adjustment of status or consular processing, leading to lawful permanent residency. After five years, your parents may apply for US citizenship.