Permanent Immigration to the United States
Understand the main immigrant visa pathways that can lead to lawful permanent residence in the United States.
U.S. immigrant visas at a glance
U.S. immigrant visas are intended for eligible applicants who plan to move permanently to the United States and become lawful permanent residents. Common pathways include family-based immigration, employment-based immigration and other qualifying immigrant categories.
In many petition-based cases, USCIS first approves the underlying immigrant petition. The case may then move to the National Visa Center for processing, where applicants complete required fees, documents and Form DS-260 before the immigrant visa interview when applicable.
Immigrant visas are designed for permanent immigration
Unlike temporary nonimmigrant visas, immigrant visas are used by qualifying applicants who intend to immigrate permanently to the United States and become lawful permanent residents.
Family-Based Immigration
Qualifying relatives of U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents may immigrate through family-based categories.
Employment-Based Immigration
Certain workers, professionals, investors and other qualifying applicants may immigrate through employment-based classifications.
Other Immigrant Programs
Other immigration routes can include special immigrant categories and programs authorized under U.S. immigration law.
Many immigrant cases follow several major stages
- An immigrant petition or qualifying immigration basis is established.
- The case may proceed through the National Visa Center when applicable.
- Applicants complete the required immigrant visa application, commonly Form DS-260.
- Civil documents and financial documents are submitted when required.
- A required medical examination is completed.
- The applicant attends the immigrant visa interview.
Immigrant visa cases are document-intensive
- Valid passport and identity documents.
- Birth, marriage, divorce and police records when applicable.
- Petition approval and case documents.
- Financial sponsorship or employment evidence when required.
- Medical examination records.
- Translations or certified records according to case instructions.
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