What is an Immediate Relative Visa?
Immediate Relative visas are immigrant visas available to certain family members of U.S. citizens. These visas are not subject to annual numerical limits, making them one of the quickest ways to secure a green card. Key categories include:
- IR-1 Visa: Spouse of a U.S. citizen.
- IR-2 Visa: Unmarried child under 21 years old of a U.S. citizen.
- IR-3 Visa: Orphan adopted abroad by a U.S. citizen.
- IR-4 Visa: Orphan to be adopted in the U.S. by a U.S. citizen.
- IR-5 Visa: Parent of a U.S. citizen (petitioner must be at least 21 years old).
Requirements for Immediate Relative Visas
To apply for an Immediate Relative visa, you must meet the following requirements:
Eligibility of the U.S. Petitioner
- Must be a U.S. citizen.
- Must file a separate petition (Form I-130) for each immediate relative.
Eligibility of the Beneficiary
- Must fall into one of the IR categories (spouse, unmarried child under 21, parent, or adopted child).
- Must meet all admissibility requirements to enter the United States.
Intent to Reside in the U.S.
- Both the petitioner and the beneficiary must intend for the beneficiary to reside in the United States permanently.
Financial Requirements
The U.S. petitioner must prove the ability to financially support the relative by meeting 125% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines when submitting the Affidavit of Support (Form I-864). Below are the income thresholds for 2024 based on household size:
| Household Size | 125% of Poverty Guidelines (Form I-864) |
|---|---|
| 2 (Petitioner + Beneficiary) | $24,650 |
| 3 (Petitioner, Beneficiary, + 1 Dependent) | $31,075 |
| 4 (Petitioner, Beneficiary, + 2 Dependents) | $37,500 |
| 5 (Petitioner, Beneficiary, + 3 Dependents) | $43,925 |
Key Notes:
- Add $6,425 for each additional dependent beyond a household size of 5.
- Income can include wages, salaries, and assets such as savings or property if income alone is insufficient.
- The petitioner must provide proof of financial resources, such as tax returns, pay stubs, and bank statements.
- Required Forms and Documentation
- Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative.
- Proof of family relationship (e.g., marriage certificates, birth certificates, adoption documents).
- Evidence of the petitioner’s U.S. citizenship.
- Affidavit of Support (Form I-864).
Key Steps in the Immediate Relative Visa Process
File Form I-130
The U.S. citizen files Form I-130 with USCIS to establish the relationship.USCIS Approval and NVC Processing
After USCIS approves the petition, the case is transferred to the National Visa Center (NVC) for fee payment and document submission.Visa Interview at the U.S. Embassy/Consulate
The relative attends an interview at their local U.S. embassy or consulate, where they present:- Proof of the family relationship.
- Financial support evidence.
- Results of a required medical examination.
Visa Issuance and U.S. Entry
Once the visa is approved, the relative can travel to the U.S. and receive their green card after entry.
Why Choose Smart USA Visa?
At SmartUSAVisa, we make the Immediate Relative visa process simple and stress-free by offering:
- Step-by-step guidance: Clear, easy-to-follow instructions for every step of the process.
- Cost-effective solutions: Avoid high legal fees with our affordable platform.
- Expert assistance: Trust our experienced team to ensure accuracy and efficiency in your application.
Reuniting with your loved ones should be a joyous occasion, and Smart USA Visa ensures it’s as smooth as possible.
Get Started Today!
Bringing your loved ones to the United States is one of the most rewarding decisions you can make. With Smart USA Visa, the complex immigration process becomes manageable, efficient, and affordable. Start your application today and take the first step toward reuniting your family.
