Based on the status of your sponsor, there are several visa preference categories for the allotment of immigrant family-based visas:
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Unlimited: Immediate relatives of US citizens do not have to wait for an immigrant visa number. Immediate relatives include the sponsor’s parents, spouse, and unmarried children under 21 years old.
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First Preference: Unmarried adult (over 21 years old) sons and daughters of US citizens.
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Second Preference: Spouses of lawful permanent residents and their unmarried sons and daughters of any age.
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Third Preference: Married sons and daughters of US citizens.
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Fourth Preference: Brothers and sisters of adult US citizens.
Listed below are the types of relatives a US citizen or a lawful permanent resident can sponsor based on relationship.
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A US Citizen Can Sponsor:
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His/her spouse.
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An unmarried son/daughter of any age.
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Married son/daughter of any age.
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Parent/brother/sister, provided the sponsor is at least 21 years old or older.
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A Lawful Permanent Resident Can Sponsor:
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His/her spouse.
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An unmarried son/daughter at any age.