There are two types of nonimmigrant visas available for people who want to visit the United States.
· Visitor for business (B-1)
· Visitor for pleasure (B-2)
The B-1 visa is for individuals who wish to visit the United States temporarily for business purposes, (e.g. conferences) or for medical treatment, or to accompany a family member who is requires medical treatment.
The B-2 visa is for individuals who wish to visit the United States temporarily or to visit family or friends.
If you are planning to visit the United States, you should be prepared to demonstrate the following:
· Your visit will be temporary
· You will depart at the end of your authorized stay or any extension granted by USCIS
· You are in possession of a valid passport
· You maintain a foreign residence that you have no intention of abandoning
· You are able to support yourself financially while in the United States
· You are admissible to the United States or have obtained a waiver for any ground of inadmissibility. For more information on this topic, see section 212(a) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) in the link to the right.
Generally, if you want to visit the United States you must first obtain a nonimmigrant visitor visa. Travelers from certain countries may be exempt from this requirement. For more information about visa requirements and procedures, see the U.S. Department of State and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) links to the right.
If you want to travel to the United States for reasons other than business or pleasure, you must apply for a visa in the appropriate category. This includes if you want to study, work as a crew member or journalist, etc., You can get help determining which visa you need by selecting the appropriate categories in the “Where to Start” menu on our home page
Passing through a U.S. Port of Entry
You should be aware that a visa does not guarantee admission into the United States. CBP may deny your admission, and also limit the period of time you are authorized to remain in the United States. For more information about the requirements for visiting the United States, go to the CBP link to the right.
If CBP authorizes your admission to the United Statesat the designated port of entry, you will receive a stamped Form I-94, Record of Arrival-Departure. If you wish to stay beyond the time indicated on the Form I-94, you may apply for an extension by filing Form I-539, Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status, with USCIS.
If you lose your Form I-94, you may apply for a replacement by filing a Form I-102, Application for Replacement/Initial Nonimmigrant Arrival/Departure Record.
Related Links >>
· Extend My Stay
· Change My Nonimmigrant Status
Change My Nonimmigrant Status
If you want to change the purpose of your visit while in the United States, you (or in some cases your employer) must file a request with USCIS on the appropriate form before your authorized stay expires. For instance, if you arrived here as a tourist but want to become a student, you must submit an application to change your status. We recommend that you apply as soon as you determine that you need to change to a different nonimmigrant category.
Until you receive approval from USCIS, do not assume the status has been approved, and do not change your activity in the United States. For example, if you are currently a nonimmigrant tourist, do not begin attending school as a student until you have received authorization from USCIS to change your status. If you fail to maintain your nonimmigrant status, you may be barred from returning to and/or removed (deported) from the United States. Your authorized status and the date your status expires can be found in the lower right-hand corner of your Form I-94, Arrival-Departure Record.
In general, you may apply to change your nonimmigrant status if you were lawfully admitted to the United States with a nonimmigrant visa, your nonimmigrant status remains valid, you have not violated the conditions of your status, and you have not committed any crimes that would make you ineligible.
You do not need to apply to change your nonimmigrant status if you were admitted into the United States for business reasons (B-1 visa category ) and you wish to remain in the United States for pleasure before your authorized stay expires.
You do not need to apply to change your nonimmigrant status if you wish to attend school in the United States, and you are the spouse or child of someone who is currently in the United States in any of the following nonimmigrant visa categories:
· Diplomatic and other government officials, and employees (A visa category)
· International trade and investors (E visa )
· Representatives to international organizations and their employees (G visa )
· Temporary workers (H visa)
· Representatives of foreign media (I visa)
· Exchange visitors (J visa)
· Intracompany transferees (L visa)
· Academic (F visa) or vocational (M visa) students (you may attend elementary, middle or high school only: if you want to attend post-secondary school full-time you must apply for a change of status).
You may not apply to change your nonimmigrant status if you were admitted to the United States in the following categories:
· Visa Waiver Program· Crew member (D nonimmigrant visa)
· In transit through the United States (C nonimmigrant visa)
· In transit through the United States without a visa (TWOV)
· Fiancé of a U.S. citizen or dependent of a fiancé (K nonimmigrant visa)
· Informant (and accompanying family) on terrorism or organized crime (S nonimmigrant visa)
If you are a vocational student (M-1), you may not apply to change your status to a(n):
· Academic student (F-1)
· Any H status (Temporary worker), if the training you received as a vocational student in the United States provided the qualifications for the temporary worker position you seek.
If you are an international exchange visitor (J-1), you may not change your nonimmigrant status if:
· You were admitted to the United States to receive graduate medical training, unless you receive a special waiver.
· You are an exchange visitor and are required to meet the foreign residence requirement, unless you receive a waiver.
· If you do not receive a waiver, you may only apply to change to a diplomatic and other government officials (A visa) or representatives to international organizations (G visa)
For information on how to apply, see the “How Do I Apply” link to the left.
Until you receive approval from USCIS, do not assume the status has been approved, and do not change your activity in the United States. For example, if you are currently a nonimmigrant tourist, do not begin attending school as a student until you have received authorization from USCIS to change your status. If you fail to maintain your nonimmigrant status, you may be barred from returning to and/or removed (deported) from the United States. Your authorized status and the date your status expires can be found in the lower right-hand corner of your Form I-94, Arrival-Departure Record.
In general, you may apply to change your nonimmigrant status if you were lawfully admitted to the United States with a nonimmigrant visa, your nonimmigrant status remains valid, you have not violated the conditions of your status, and you have not committed any crimes that would make you ineligible.
You do not need to apply to change your nonimmigrant status if you were admitted into the United States for business reasons (B-1 visa category ) and you wish to remain in the United States for pleasure before your authorized stay expires.
You do not need to apply to change your nonimmigrant status if you wish to attend school in the United States, and you are the spouse or child of someone who is currently in the United States in any of the following nonimmigrant visa categories:
· Diplomatic and other government officials, and employees (A visa category)
· International trade and investors (E visa )
· Representatives to international organizations and their employees (G visa )
· Temporary workers (H visa)
· Representatives of foreign media (I visa)
· Exchange visitors (J visa)
· Intracompany transferees (L visa)
· Academic (F visa) or vocational (M visa) students (you may attend elementary, middle or high school only: if you want to attend post-secondary school full-time you must apply for a change of status).
You may not apply to change your nonimmigrant status if you were admitted to the United States in the following categories:
· Visa Waiver Program· Crew member (D nonimmigrant visa)
· In transit through the United States (C nonimmigrant visa)
· In transit through the United States without a visa (TWOV)
· Fiancé of a U.S. citizen or dependent of a fiancé (K nonimmigrant visa)
· Informant (and accompanying family) on terrorism or organized crime (S nonimmigrant visa)
If you are a vocational student (M-1), you may not apply to change your status to a(n):
· Academic student (F-1)
· Any H status (Temporary worker), if the training you received as a vocational student in the United States provided the qualifications for the temporary worker position you seek.
If you are an international exchange visitor (J-1), you may not change your nonimmigrant status if:
· You were admitted to the United States to receive graduate medical training, unless you receive a special waiver.
· You are an exchange visitor and are required to meet the foreign residence requirement, unless you receive a waiver.
· If you do not receive a waiver, you may only apply to change to a diplomatic and other government officials (A visa) or representatives to international organizations (G visa)
For information on how to apply, see the “How Do I Apply” link to the left.
Extend My Stay
If you want to extend your stay in the United States, you must file a request with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) on the Form I-539, Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status before your authorized stay expires. If you remain in the United States longer than authorized, you may be barred from returning and/or you may be removed (deported) from the United States. Check the date in the lower right-hand corner of your Form I-94, Arrival-Departure Record, to determine the date your authorized stay expires. We recommend that you apply to extend your stay at least 45 days before your authorized stay expires.
You may apply to extend your stay if:
· You were lawfully admitted into the United States with a nonimmigrant visa
· Your nonimmigrant visa status remains valid
· You have not committed any crimes that make you ineligible for a visa
· You have not violated the conditions of your admission
· Your passport is valid and will remain valid for the duration of your stay
You may not apply to extend your stay if you were admitted to the United States in the following categories:
· Visa Waiver Program
· Crew member (D nonimmigrant visa)
· In transit through the United States (C nonimmigrant visa)
· In transit through the United States without a visa (TWOV)
· Fiancé of a U.S. citizen or dependent of a fiancé (K nonimmigrant visa)
· Informant (and accompanying family) on terrorism or organized crime (S nonimmigrant visa)
For information on how to apply, see the “How Do I Apply” link to the left.
You may apply to extend your stay if:
· You were lawfully admitted into the United States with a nonimmigrant visa
· Your nonimmigrant visa status remains valid
· You have not committed any crimes that make you ineligible for a visa
· You have not violated the conditions of your admission
· Your passport is valid and will remain valid for the duration of your stay
You may not apply to extend your stay if you were admitted to the United States in the following categories:
· Visa Waiver Program
· Crew member (D nonimmigrant visa)
· In transit through the United States (C nonimmigrant visa)
· In transit through the United States without a visa (TWOV)
· Fiancé of a U.S. citizen or dependent of a fiancé (K nonimmigrant visa)
· Informant (and accompanying family) on terrorism or organized crime (S nonimmigrant visa)
For information on how to apply, see the “How Do I Apply” link to the left.
Family
USCIS serves families with a wide range of immigration-related interests. This section of the website will explain how you may petition for relatives to immigrate to (permanently live in) the United States. If you are interested in other aspects of immigration, such as visitor visas or citizenship, see the links to the right.
How Can I Help a Family Member Immigrate?
Your status determines which relatives (or future relatives such as a fiancé(e) or prospective adopted child) may be eligible to receive immigration benefits. In order to help a family member immigrate to the United States, you must be a:
· U.S. citizen
· Permanent resident (green card holder)
· Refugee admitted as a refugee within the past 2 years or asylee granted asylum within the past 2 years
To find out whether your family members are eligible to immigrate and the steps you can take to help them, see the links to the left.
If you or a member of your family is in the U.S. military, see the “Information for Members of the Military and Their Families” link to the right. Information on other family-related subjects such as adoption and genealogy can also be found in the links to the right.
Related Links >>
· Family of U.S. Citizens
· Family of Green Card Holders (Permanent Residents)
· Family of Refugees & Asylees
How Can I Help a Family Member Immigrate?
Your status determines which relatives (or future relatives such as a fiancé(e) or prospective adopted child) may be eligible to receive immigration benefits. In order to help a family member immigrate to the United States, you must be a:
· U.S. citizen
· Permanent resident (green card holder)
· Refugee admitted as a refugee within the past 2 years or asylee granted asylum within the past 2 years
To find out whether your family members are eligible to immigrate and the steps you can take to help them, see the links to the left.
If you or a member of your family is in the U.S. military, see the “Information for Members of the Military and Their Families” link to the right. Information on other family-related subjects such as adoption and genealogy can also be found in the links to the right.
Related Links >>
· Family of U.S. Citizens
· Family of Green Card Holders (Permanent Residents)
· Family of Refugees & Asylees
Family of Refugees & Asylees
If you entered the United States as a refugee within the past 2 years or were granted asylee status within the past 2 years, you may petition for certain family members to obtain derivative refugee or asylee status. If you have not yet been granted or applied for refugee or asylee status, please see the “Refugees & Asylum” link to the right.
You May Petition for the Following Family Members:
· Spouse
· Child (unmarried and under 21 when you first applied for asylum or refugee status)
Eligibility Criteria
· As the petitioner, you must be a principal refugee or asylee. This means that you were granted refugee or asylee status directly and did not obtain it through a relative.
· You entered the United States as a refugee within the past 2 years or were granted asylum within the past 2 years.
· You remain in refugee or asylee status or have become a permanent resident (received a green card). If you have already become a U.S. citizen through naturalization, you cannot petition to obtain derivative refugee or asylee status for a relative. However you may still be able to help family immigrate to the United States. See the “Family of U.S. Citizens” link to the left for more information.
· The family relationship had to exist before you came to the United States as a refugee or were granted asylum:
· If you want to file for your spouse, you had to be married before you entered as a refugee or were granted asylum. See the “Refugee & Asylee Spouses” link to the left for more information.
· Your child had to be conceived (this means the mother was already pregnant) or born before you entered as a refugee or were granted asylum. See the “Refugee & Asylee Children” link to the left for more information.
Application Process
· File Form I-730, Refugee/Asylee Relative Petition. (This form is free to file. To download the form and instructions, see the “Forms” section to the right.)
For more information on refugees and asylees, see the “Humanitarian” link to the right.
You May Petition for the Following Family Members:
· Spouse
· Child (unmarried and under 21 when you first applied for asylum or refugee status)
Eligibility Criteria
· As the petitioner, you must be a principal refugee or asylee. This means that you were granted refugee or asylee status directly and did not obtain it through a relative.
· You entered the United States as a refugee within the past 2 years or were granted asylum within the past 2 years.
· You remain in refugee or asylee status or have become a permanent resident (received a green card). If you have already become a U.S. citizen through naturalization, you cannot petition to obtain derivative refugee or asylee status for a relative. However you may still be able to help family immigrate to the United States. See the “Family of U.S. Citizens” link to the left for more information.
· The family relationship had to exist before you came to the United States as a refugee or were granted asylum:
· If you want to file for your spouse, you had to be married before you entered as a refugee or were granted asylum. See the “Refugee & Asylee Spouses” link to the left for more information.
· Your child had to be conceived (this means the mother was already pregnant) or born before you entered as a refugee or were granted asylum. See the “Refugee & Asylee Children” link to the left for more information.
Application Process
· File Form I-730, Refugee/Asylee Relative Petition. (This form is free to file. To download the form and instructions, see the “Forms” section to the right.)
For more information on refugees and asylees, see the “Humanitarian” link to the right.
Family of Green Card Holders (Permanent Residents)
As a green card holder (permanent resident), you may petition for certain family members to immigrate to the United States as permanent residents.
You May Petition For The Following Family Members:
· Spouse (husband or wife)
· Unmarried children under 21
· Unmarried son or daughter of any age
Application Process
To obtain a green card for your family member, you must:
· File Form I-130
· Provide proof of your status to demonstrate that you are a permanent resident.
Submit evidence of the qualifying relationship such as a birth certificate, marriage certificate, divorce decree, etc. See the form instructions for specific documents required.
· Submit proof of any legal name change for you or your family member (the beneficiary).
See the instructions for Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, for detailed instructions.
If you or a member of your family is in the U.S. military special conditions may apply to your situation. For information and additional resources, see the “Information for Members of the Military and their Families” link to the right.
Preference Categories
When petitioning for your relative, the following preference categories apply:
· First preference: Unmarried, adult sons and daughters of U.S. citizens. (Adult means 21 or older)
· Second Preference (2A): Spouses of green card holders, unmarried children (under 21) of permanent residents
· Second Preference (2B): Unmarried adult sons and daughters of permanent residents
· Third Preference: Married sons and daughters (any age) of U.S. citizens
· Fourth Preference: Brothers and sisters of adult U.S. citizens
A visa becomes available to a preference category according to the priority date (the date the I-130 was properly filed). For more information on priority dates, see the “Visa Availability and Priority Dates” link to the right.
What happens next?
· If your relative is already in the United States legally, he or she may apply to adjust status to become a permanent resident after a visa number becomes available using Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status.
· If your relative is outside the United States, your petition will be sent to the National Visa Center (NVC). The NVC will forward your petition to the appropriate U.S. consulate when a visa becomes available and your relative will be notified about how to proceed. This process is referred to as “Consular Processing.”
· Your family member’s preference category will determine how long he or she will have to wait for an immigrant visa number. Once you have filed a petition, you can check its progress on “My Case Status” in the links to the right. For visa availability information, see the “Visa Bulletin” link to the right.
For more information on becoming a permanent resident, see the “Adjustment of Status” (for processing within the United States) and “Consular Processing” (for processing overseas) links to the right. For more information on green cards, see the “Green Card” link to the right. For more information on each benefit type and the steps to take to help your relative immigrate, see the links to the left.
Note: A visa petition (Form I-130) is only used to demonstrate a qualifying relationship. An approved petition DOES NOT grant any benefit except to create a place in line for visa processing. For more information on green cards, see the “Green Card” link to the right. For more information on relatives and green cards, see the link to the left.
You May Petition For The Following Family Members:
· Spouse (husband or wife)
· Unmarried children under 21
· Unmarried son or daughter of any age
Application Process
To obtain a green card for your family member, you must:
· File Form I-130
· Provide proof of your status to demonstrate that you are a permanent resident.
Submit evidence of the qualifying relationship such as a birth certificate, marriage certificate, divorce decree, etc. See the form instructions for specific documents required.
· Submit proof of any legal name change for you or your family member (the beneficiary).
See the instructions for Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, for detailed instructions.
If you or a member of your family is in the U.S. military special conditions may apply to your situation. For information and additional resources, see the “Information for Members of the Military and their Families” link to the right.
Preference Categories
When petitioning for your relative, the following preference categories apply:
· First preference: Unmarried, adult sons and daughters of U.S. citizens. (Adult means 21 or older)
· Second Preference (2A): Spouses of green card holders, unmarried children (under 21) of permanent residents
· Second Preference (2B): Unmarried adult sons and daughters of permanent residents
· Third Preference: Married sons and daughters (any age) of U.S. citizens
· Fourth Preference: Brothers and sisters of adult U.S. citizens
A visa becomes available to a preference category according to the priority date (the date the I-130 was properly filed). For more information on priority dates, see the “Visa Availability and Priority Dates” link to the right.
What happens next?
· If your relative is already in the United States legally, he or she may apply to adjust status to become a permanent resident after a visa number becomes available using Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status.
· If your relative is outside the United States, your petition will be sent to the National Visa Center (NVC). The NVC will forward your petition to the appropriate U.S. consulate when a visa becomes available and your relative will be notified about how to proceed. This process is referred to as “Consular Processing.”
· Your family member’s preference category will determine how long he or she will have to wait for an immigrant visa number. Once you have filed a petition, you can check its progress on “My Case Status” in the links to the right. For visa availability information, see the “Visa Bulletin” link to the right.
For more information on becoming a permanent resident, see the “Adjustment of Status” (for processing within the United States) and “Consular Processing” (for processing overseas) links to the right. For more information on green cards, see the “Green Card” link to the right. For more information on each benefit type and the steps to take to help your relative immigrate, see the links to the left.
Note: A visa petition (Form I-130) is only used to demonstrate a qualifying relationship. An approved petition DOES NOT grant any benefit except to create a place in line for visa processing. For more information on green cards, see the “Green Card” link to the right. For more information on relatives and green cards, see the link to the left.
Family of U.S. Citizens
As a U.S. citizen, you may petition for certain family members based on your relationship.
Relatives for Whom You (U.S. Citizen) May Petition and Related Benefits and Required Forms
If you or a member of your family is in the U.S. military special conditions may apply. See the “Information for Members of the Military and their Families” link to the right. For more information on fiancé(e) visas and K-3/K-4 nonimmigrant visas, see the corresponding links to the left under "Family of U.S. Citizens". If you would like information on citizenship or adoption, see the corresponding links to the right.
Application Process: Green Card (Permanent Residence)
To petition for a family member to receive a green card (permanent residence), you must submit with your Form I-130, petition for alien relative:
· Proof of your U.S. citizenship
· Evidence of the qualifying relationship (birth certificate, marriage certificate, divorce decree, etc.)
· Proof of any legal name change for you or the beneficiary
Spouses of deceased U.S. permanent residents (widows and widowers) may also be eligible to become permanent residents. See the “Widow(er)” link to the right.
Immediate Relatives
The term “immediate relative(s)” is used to define certain immigrant relatives of U.S. citizens. Immediate relatives include:
· Spouses of U.S. citizens
· Children (unmarried and under 21) of U.S. citizens
· Parents of U.S. citizens (The petitioning citizen must be 21 or older.)
For immediate relatives of U.S. citizens, visas are always available, which means that your family member does not need to wait in line for a visa. Immediate relatives who are in the United States can file Form I-485 at the same time as Form I-130. For more information on how your relative can apply to adjust status (get a green card) while he or she is in the United States, see the “Green Card” link to the right.
Preference Categories
Preference categories include family relationships that are not immediate relatives and have annual numerical limits. A visa becomes available to a preference category based on the priority date (the date the Form I-130 was filed). The following are preference categories:
· First preference: Unmarried, adult sons and daughters of U.S. citizens (adult means 21 or older.)
· Second Preference (2A): Spouses of green card holders, unmarried children (under 21) of permanent residents
· Second Preference (2B): Unmarried adult sons and daughters of permanent residents
· Third Preference: Married sons and daughters (any age) of U.S. citizens
· Fourth Preference: Brothers and sisters of adult U.S. citizens
For current wait times, see the “Visa Bulletin” and “Processing Times” links to the right. For more information on priority dates, see the “Visa Availability and Priority Dates” to the right. For more specific information on how to help individual members of your family, see the corresponding link under “Family of U.S. Citizens” to the left.
What Happens Next?
· If your relative is already in the United States, he or she may apply to adjust status to become a green card holder (permanent resident) after a visa number becomes available using Form I-485.
· If your relative is outside the United States, your petition will be sent to the National Visa Center (NVC). The NVC will forward your petition to the appropriate U.S. consulate when a visa becomes available and your relative will be notified about how to proceed. This process is referred to as “Consular Processing.”
· Your family member’s preference category will determine how long he or she will have to wait for an immigrant visa number. Once you have filed a petition, you can check its progress on “My Case Status”, in the links to the right. For visa availability information, see the “Visa Bulletin” link to the right.
For more information on becoming a green card holder, see the “Adjustment of Status” (for processing within the United States) and “Consular Processing” (for processing overseas) links to the right. For more information on green cards, see the “Green Card” link to the right.
NOTE: A visa petition (Form I-130 or Form I-129F) is only used to demonstrate a qualifying relationship. An approved petition DOES NOT grant any benefit, it simply creates a place in line for visa processing.
Relatives for Whom You (U.S. Citizen) May Petition and Related Benefits and Required Forms
If you or a member of your family is in the U.S. military special conditions may apply. See the “Information for Members of the Military and their Families” link to the right. For more information on fiancé(e) visas and K-3/K-4 nonimmigrant visas, see the corresponding links to the left under "Family of U.S. Citizens". If you would like information on citizenship or adoption, see the corresponding links to the right.
Application Process: Green Card (Permanent Residence)
To petition for a family member to receive a green card (permanent residence), you must submit with your Form I-130, petition for alien relative:
· Proof of your U.S. citizenship
· Evidence of the qualifying relationship (birth certificate, marriage certificate, divorce decree, etc.)
· Proof of any legal name change for you or the beneficiary
Spouses of deceased U.S. permanent residents (widows and widowers) may also be eligible to become permanent residents. See the “Widow(er)” link to the right.
Immediate Relatives
The term “immediate relative(s)” is used to define certain immigrant relatives of U.S. citizens. Immediate relatives include:
· Spouses of U.S. citizens
· Children (unmarried and under 21) of U.S. citizens
· Parents of U.S. citizens (The petitioning citizen must be 21 or older.)
For immediate relatives of U.S. citizens, visas are always available, which means that your family member does not need to wait in line for a visa. Immediate relatives who are in the United States can file Form I-485 at the same time as Form I-130. For more information on how your relative can apply to adjust status (get a green card) while he or she is in the United States, see the “Green Card” link to the right.
Preference Categories
Preference categories include family relationships that are not immediate relatives and have annual numerical limits. A visa becomes available to a preference category based on the priority date (the date the Form I-130 was filed). The following are preference categories:
· First preference: Unmarried, adult sons and daughters of U.S. citizens (adult means 21 or older.)
· Second Preference (2A): Spouses of green card holders, unmarried children (under 21) of permanent residents
· Second Preference (2B): Unmarried adult sons and daughters of permanent residents
· Third Preference: Married sons and daughters (any age) of U.S. citizens
· Fourth Preference: Brothers and sisters of adult U.S. citizens
For current wait times, see the “Visa Bulletin” and “Processing Times” links to the right. For more information on priority dates, see the “Visa Availability and Priority Dates” to the right. For more specific information on how to help individual members of your family, see the corresponding link under “Family of U.S. Citizens” to the left.
What Happens Next?
· If your relative is already in the United States, he or she may apply to adjust status to become a green card holder (permanent resident) after a visa number becomes available using Form I-485.
· If your relative is outside the United States, your petition will be sent to the National Visa Center (NVC). The NVC will forward your petition to the appropriate U.S. consulate when a visa becomes available and your relative will be notified about how to proceed. This process is referred to as “Consular Processing.”
· Your family member’s preference category will determine how long he or she will have to wait for an immigrant visa number. Once you have filed a petition, you can check its progress on “My Case Status”, in the links to the right. For visa availability information, see the “Visa Bulletin” link to the right.
For more information on becoming a green card holder, see the “Adjustment of Status” (for processing within the United States) and “Consular Processing” (for processing overseas) links to the right. For more information on green cards, see the “Green Card” link to the right.
NOTE: A visa petition (Form I-130 or Form I-129F) is only used to demonstrate a qualifying relationship. An approved petition DOES NOT grant any benefit, it simply creates a place in line for visa processing.
Citizenship
The United States has a long history of welcoming immigrants from all parts of the world. America values the contributions of immigrants who continue to enrich this country and preserve its legacy as a land of freedom and opportunity.
Deciding to become a U.S. citizen is one of the most important decisions in an individual’s life. If you decide to apply to become a U.S. citizen, you will be showing your commitment to the United States and your loyalty to its Constitution. In return, you are rewarded with all the rights and privileges that are part of U.S. citizenship.
You may become a U.S. citizen either at birth or after birth. Individuals who are born in the United States and subject to the jurisdiction of the United States and individuals born in certain territories or outlying possessions of the United States are citizens at birth. Also, individuals born outside the United States may be citizens at birth if their parent or parents were citizens at the time of birth and other requirements are met.
Additionally, you may become a U.S. citizen after birth either through your parents, known as “derived” or “acquired” citizenship, or by applying for naturalization on your own.
For information about becoming a permanent resident (green card holder) or petitioning for family members, see “Green Card” or “Family” links on the home page.
Citizenship Through Naturalization
Generally, permanent residents (green card holders) age 18 or older who meet all eligibility requirements for naturalization may submit a Form N-400, Application for Naturalization. For more information, see the “Citizenship Through Naturalization” link to the left.
Citizenship Through Parents
If eligible, you can “acquire” or “derive” U.S. citizenship through a qualifying U.S. citizen parent(s). For more information, see the “Citizenship Through Parents” link to the left.
The Naturalization Test
Most naturalization applicants are required to take a test on English, and U.S. history and government. We provide resources to help you prepare. For more information, see the “Naturalization Test” link to the left. For study materials, see the “Citizenship & Naturalization Based Resources” link to the right.
Citizenship for Military Members and Dependents
Members and veterans of the U.S. armed forces and their dependents may be eligible for special naturalization provisions. See the “Information for Members of the Military & Their Families” link to the right.
Deciding to become a U.S. citizen is one of the most important decisions in an individual’s life. If you decide to apply to become a U.S. citizen, you will be showing your commitment to the United States and your loyalty to its Constitution. In return, you are rewarded with all the rights and privileges that are part of U.S. citizenship.
You may become a U.S. citizen either at birth or after birth. Individuals who are born in the United States and subject to the jurisdiction of the United States and individuals born in certain territories or outlying possessions of the United States are citizens at birth. Also, individuals born outside the United States may be citizens at birth if their parent or parents were citizens at the time of birth and other requirements are met.
Additionally, you may become a U.S. citizen after birth either through your parents, known as “derived” or “acquired” citizenship, or by applying for naturalization on your own.
For information about becoming a permanent resident (green card holder) or petitioning for family members, see “Green Card” or “Family” links on the home page.
Citizenship Through Naturalization
Generally, permanent residents (green card holders) age 18 or older who meet all eligibility requirements for naturalization may submit a Form N-400, Application for Naturalization. For more information, see the “Citizenship Through Naturalization” link to the left.
Citizenship Through Parents
If eligible, you can “acquire” or “derive” U.S. citizenship through a qualifying U.S. citizen parent(s). For more information, see the “Citizenship Through Parents” link to the left.
The Naturalization Test
Most naturalization applicants are required to take a test on English, and U.S. history and government. We provide resources to help you prepare. For more information, see the “Naturalization Test” link to the left. For study materials, see the “Citizenship & Naturalization Based Resources” link to the right.
Citizenship for Military Members and Dependents
Members and veterans of the U.S. armed forces and their dependents may be eligible for special naturalization provisions. See the “Information for Members of the Military & Their Families” link to the right.
Citizenship Through Naturalization
Naturalization is the process by which U.S. citizenship is granted to a foreign citizen or national after he or she fulfills the requirements established by Congress in the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA).
In most cases, an applicant for naturalization must be a permanent resident (green card holder) before filing. Except for certain U.S. military members and their dependents, naturalization can only be granted in the United States.
You May Qualify for Naturalization if:
· You have been a permanent resident for at least 5 years and meet all other eligibility requirements. See the “General Path to Naturalization” link under “Citizenship by Naturalization” to the left.
· You have been a permanent resident for 3 years or more and meet all eligibility requirements to file as a spouse of a U.S. citizen. See the “Spouses of U.S. Citizens” link under “Citizenship by Naturalization” to the left.
· You have qualifying service in the U.S. armed forces and meet all other eligibility requirements. See the “Information for Members of the Military and Their Families” link to the right.
· Your child may qualify for naturalization if you are a U.S. citizen, the child was born outside the U.S., the child is currently residing outside the U.S., and all other eligibility requirements are met.
Note: You may also qualify through other paths to naturalization if you do not qualify through the paths described on the links to the left. See the “A Guide to Naturalization” link to the right. Chapter 4 of the guide discusses who is eligible for Naturalization.
How to Apply for Naturalization
· Prepare for taking the naturalization test before you apply. We have educational materials and resources to help you prepare. For more information, see the “Naturalization Test” link to the left.
· For applicants eligible pursuant to sections 316, 319, 328, and 329 of the INA, file Form N-400, Application for Naturalization. Find Form N-400 in the “Citizenship and Naturalization Based Forms” link to the right. For more information, see the “How Do I Apply for U.S. Citizenship” link to the right. To learn about sections 316, 319, 328 and 329 if the INA, see the “INA” link to the right.
· Applicants eligible pursuant to sections 328 and 329 of the INA should also file Form N-426, Request for Certification of Military or Naval Service, and Form G-325B, Biographic Information. To learn about sections 328 and 329 of the INA, see the “INA” link to the right.
· For a child eligible pursuant to section 322 of the INA, a Form N-600K, Application for Citizenship and Issuance of Certificate Under Section 322, may be filed on behalf of the child. To learn about section 322 of the INA, see the “ Biological or Adopted Children Residing Outside the United States” link to the left under “Citizenship Through Parents” and the “INA” link to the right.
Note: You may already be a U.S. citizen and not need to apply for naturalization if your biological or adoptive parent(s) became a U.S. citizen before you reached the age of 18. See the “Citizenship through Parents” link to the left.
In most cases, an applicant for naturalization must be a permanent resident (green card holder) before filing. Except for certain U.S. military members and their dependents, naturalization can only be granted in the United States.
You May Qualify for Naturalization if:
· You have been a permanent resident for at least 5 years and meet all other eligibility requirements. See the “General Path to Naturalization” link under “Citizenship by Naturalization” to the left.
· You have been a permanent resident for 3 years or more and meet all eligibility requirements to file as a spouse of a U.S. citizen. See the “Spouses of U.S. Citizens” link under “Citizenship by Naturalization” to the left.
· You have qualifying service in the U.S. armed forces and meet all other eligibility requirements. See the “Information for Members of the Military and Their Families” link to the right.
· Your child may qualify for naturalization if you are a U.S. citizen, the child was born outside the U.S., the child is currently residing outside the U.S., and all other eligibility requirements are met.
Note: You may also qualify through other paths to naturalization if you do not qualify through the paths described on the links to the left. See the “A Guide to Naturalization” link to the right. Chapter 4 of the guide discusses who is eligible for Naturalization.
How to Apply for Naturalization
· Prepare for taking the naturalization test before you apply. We have educational materials and resources to help you prepare. For more information, see the “Naturalization Test” link to the left.
· For applicants eligible pursuant to sections 316, 319, 328, and 329 of the INA, file Form N-400, Application for Naturalization. Find Form N-400 in the “Citizenship and Naturalization Based Forms” link to the right. For more information, see the “How Do I Apply for U.S. Citizenship” link to the right. To learn about sections 316, 319, 328 and 329 if the INA, see the “INA” link to the right.
· Applicants eligible pursuant to sections 328 and 329 of the INA should also file Form N-426, Request for Certification of Military or Naval Service, and Form G-325B, Biographic Information. To learn about sections 328 and 329 of the INA, see the “INA” link to the right.
· For a child eligible pursuant to section 322 of the INA, a Form N-600K, Application for Citizenship and Issuance of Certificate Under Section 322, may be filed on behalf of the child. To learn about section 322 of the INA, see the “ Biological or Adopted Children Residing Outside the United States” link to the left under “Citizenship Through Parents” and the “INA” link to the right.
Note: You may already be a U.S. citizen and not need to apply for naturalization if your biological or adoptive parent(s) became a U.S. citizen before you reached the age of 18. See the “Citizenship through Parents” link to the left.
Citizenship Through Parents
Whether someone born outside the United States to a U.S. citizen parent or parents is a U.S. citizen depends on the law in effect when the person was born.
These laws have changed over the years, but usually require a combination of at least one parent being a U.S. citizen when the child was born and having lived in the U.S. or its possessions for a period of time. Additionally, children born outside the United States may become citizens after birth based on their parent’s citizenship or naturalization. For further information on this topic, please see the links to the left under citizenship through parents.
If you still need assistance after having viewed these pages, please contact us at our National Customer Service Center. See the “Contact Us” link to the right.
These laws have changed over the years, but usually require a combination of at least one parent being a U.S. citizen when the child was born and having lived in the U.S. or its possessions for a period of time. Additionally, children born outside the United States may become citizens after birth based on their parent’s citizenship or naturalization. For further information on this topic, please see the links to the left under citizenship through parents.
If you still need assistance after having viewed these pages, please contact us at our National Customer Service Center. See the “Contact Us” link to the right.
The Naturalization Test
One of the requirements for U.S. citizenship through naturalization is to take the naturalization test to demonstrate that you are able to read, write, and speak basic English and that you have a basic knowledge of U.S. history and government (also known as “civics”).
Once you have completed and submitted your Form N-400, Application for Naturalization, and you have had your fingerprints taken at a USCIS facility, you will receive an appointment for an interview. At your naturalization interview, you will be required to answer questions about your application and background. You will also take an English and civics test unless you qualify for an exemption or waiver.
English & Civics
During your interview, a USCIS officer will test your ability to read, write, and speak English and your knowledge of civics. You must read one sentence out of three sentences correctly in English, and you must write one sentence out of three sentences correctly in English. Your ability to speak English is determined during your interview on your naturalization application. Finally, you must answer 6 out of 10 civics questions correctly to achieve a passing score.
You will be given two opportunities to take the English and civics tests and to answer all questions relating to your naturalization application in English. If you fail any of the tests at your initial interview, you will be retested on the portion of the test that you failed (English or civics) between 60 and 90 days from the date of your initial interview. See 8 CFR 312.5(a) and 335.3(b).
If You Don’t Pass
If an applicant fails the English and/or civics test during the first examination, the applicant will be required to take the same version of the test, old or new, when the applicant is retested, even if the retest is scheduled on or after October 1, 2009.
Study Materials
We have developed a variety of study materials to help you learn more about U.S. civics (history and government) as you prepare for the naturalization test. See the “Study Materials for the Naturalization Test” link to the right.
Exemptions from English & Civics Requirements
For information on exceptions or modifications to the English and civics requirements for naturalization, see the “Exceptions & Accommodations” link under “Citizenship by Naturalization” to the left.
Once you have completed and submitted your Form N-400, Application for Naturalization, and you have had your fingerprints taken at a USCIS facility, you will receive an appointment for an interview. At your naturalization interview, you will be required to answer questions about your application and background. You will also take an English and civics test unless you qualify for an exemption or waiver.
English & Civics
During your interview, a USCIS officer will test your ability to read, write, and speak English and your knowledge of civics. You must read one sentence out of three sentences correctly in English, and you must write one sentence out of three sentences correctly in English. Your ability to speak English is determined during your interview on your naturalization application. Finally, you must answer 6 out of 10 civics questions correctly to achieve a passing score.
You will be given two opportunities to take the English and civics tests and to answer all questions relating to your naturalization application in English. If you fail any of the tests at your initial interview, you will be retested on the portion of the test that you failed (English or civics) between 60 and 90 days from the date of your initial interview. See 8 CFR 312.5(a) and 335.3(b).
If You Don’t Pass
If an applicant fails the English and/or civics test during the first examination, the applicant will be required to take the same version of the test, old or new, when the applicant is retested, even if the retest is scheduled on or after October 1, 2009.
Study Materials
We have developed a variety of study materials to help you learn more about U.S. civics (history and government) as you prepare for the naturalization test. See the “Study Materials for the Naturalization Test” link to the right.
Exemptions from English & Civics Requirements
For information on exceptions or modifications to the English and civics requirements for naturalization, see the “Exceptions & Accommodations” link under “Citizenship by Naturalization” to the left.
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