The US Government provides immigrant visas annually through family petitions, which in turn fall into two main categories: “Immediate Relatives” and “Preferred Relatives.” Immediate relatives, as the name implies, do not have a waiting list, and are eligible to apply for their adjustment of status immediately. Family members with preferences, depending on their preference, must wait for Immigration to work on their requests in order to apply for their adjustment of status.

The two categories of family petitions require two steps: First, a petition made to USCIS must be made. Once it is approved and available, the second step is called “adjustment of status in the United States” or application by visa at consulates outside the country.