Getting a green card through family sponsorship is often the fastest and easiest path to permanent residency in the United States. A green card allows a foreign national to legally live and work permanently in the U.S.In 2024, there are some important new rules, updates, and requirements to be aware of when applying for a family-based green card:
New Rules and Updates for Family-Based Green Cards
Fee Increases
Fastest Way to Get Green Card through Family 2024 – New Rules, Updates & Requirement’s
On April 1, 2024, the fees for most family-based green card applications will increase significantly:
- Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative) will increase from $535 to $820, a 53% increase.
- Form I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence) will increase from $1,140 to $1,285 for online filing, a 13% increase.
- Biometrics fees will increase from $85 to $105 per person.
Applicants should file forms before April 1st to lock in current, lower fees.
Monthly Visa Bulletin
The monthly Visa Bulletin shows visa availability and waiting times for green cards. In September 2023, there was a retrogression (backlogging) in the F2A category for spouses and minor children of green card holders, indicating longer waits. Applicants should regularly check the Visa Bulletin to understand when a visa may become available.
Online Accounts
In 2024, USCIS will launch online accounts for organizations and legal representatives. This should increase efficiency and make it easier for families and lawyers to track cases.
Fastest Ways to Get Family-Based Green Card
The fastest ways to get a family-based green card are:
Spouses of U.S. Citizens
Spouses of U.S. citizens have the fastest route to a green card. The sponsoring spouse files Form I-130, then the applicant files Form I-485 to adjust status if in the U.S. or consular processing if abroad. The whole process takes 13-15 months.
Minor Children of U.S. Citizens
Unmarried children under 21 years of age also have an expedited path, similar to spouses. The sponsoring parent files Form I-130, then the applicant child applies for a green card. The process takes 15-18 months.
Parents of Adult U.S. Citizens
U.S. citizens over the age of 21 can sponsor green cards for their parents. After filing Form I-130, parents complete consular processing abroad. This takes about 2 years.
Family-Based Green Card Requirements
The main requirements for a family-based green card are:
- Qualifying relationship – The sponsor must be a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident and have an eligible family relationship with the applicant. Common relationships are spouses, parents, children, and siblings.
- Financial support – The sponsor must demonstrate the financial ability to support the applicant. This is done by filing Form I-864.
- Admissibility – The applicant must establish they are admissible and eligible for a green card, by having a clean background check and medical exam.
- Interview – Most family-based applicants must attend an in-person interview at a USCIS field office in the U.S. (or embassy if consular processing).
In addition to these main requirements, applicants gather supporting documents to prove identity, relationship validity, and more.
Conclusion
Getting a green card through family sponsorship is often the simplest path to U.S. permanent residency. When applying in 2024, applicants need to understand new fees, visa backlogs, online accounts, and core requirements. Spouses and minor children of U.S. citizens have the fastest route, taking as little as 13-15 months. Other family relationships may encounter longer waits but can still attain green cards.
Staying up-to-date on the latest green card rules and planning ahead is key for family members seeking to immigrate to the United States.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the fastest categories for getting a family-based green card?
The fastest categories are spouses and minor children under 21 of U.S. citizens, taking 13-15 months. Parents of adult U.S. citizens are next fastest at about 2 years. Other family relationships can take longer depending on visa backlogs.
How much will it cost to apply for a family-based green card?
Costs to apply for a family-based green card include:
- Form I-130 fee: $820 (increasing from $535 on April 1, 2024)
- Form I-485 fee: $1,285 for online filing (increasing from $1,140)
- Biometrics fee: $105 per person (increasing from $85)
- Required medical exam: $200-$400
- Other costs like translations or a lawyer
What are new rules for family green cards in 2024?
Key new rules for family green cards in 2024 include higher application fees, monthly Visa Bulletin backlogs to watch, and new USCIS online accounts to improve efficiency. Applicants must stay updated on the latest green card requirements when filing.
How long does it take to get a marriage-based green card?
For spouses of U.S. citizens, the marriage-based green card process takes about 13-15 months from start to approval. Spouses of green card holders take a bit longer at 15-21 months due to more visa backlogs.
What documents do I need for a family-based green card?
Main documents needed for family green cards include proof of qualifying relationship (marriage/birth certificates), sponsor financial capability (Form I-864), police certificates, medical exam results, proof of status documents, and more.
Get Expert Help Applying for a Family-Based Green Card
Navigating the family-based green card process can be confusing and overwhelming. To save time and avoid mistakes, consider using an online immigration service like Boundless. Their experts will help you complete all required forms and supporting documents for your situation. Learn more about Boundless for family green cards or get started today!
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