US Announces Family Visa Options for Permanent Residence

The United States government has specified two primary family-based immigrant visa categories for foreign nationals seeking permanent residence through family relationships, as outlined in the US Department of State’s September 2026 Visa Bulletin. The Immediate Relative visa category includes spouses of US citizens, unmarried children under 21 of US citizens, and parents of US citizens aged 21 and older, with no annual numerical limit.

In contrast, the Family Preference visa category encompasses certain family relationships with US citizens and lawful permanent residents, including unmarried sons and daughters aged 21 or older of US citizens, spouses and unmarried children of lawful permanent residents, married sons and daughters of US citizens, and siblings of adult US citizens. Family Preference visas are subject to annual numerical limits, with a fiscal year 2026 cap of 226,000.

The bulletin specifies final action dates for various preference categories, including F1, F2A, F2B, F3, and F4, and notes that visa availability may change during the fiscal year.