What is an Immediate Relative for Immigration?

Written By: Matthew W. Peterson

Published: 07/27/2023

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To apply for adjustment of status, you generally must be an immediate relative of a U.S. citizen. Being an immediate relative qualifies you for a number of immigration benefits.

To be an immediate relative, you must be:

Married to a U.S citizen;
A parent of a U.S. citizen who is 21 or older;
An unmarried child of a U.S. citizen, if you are 21 or under.

Adopted children may also qualify as a child. However, this requires additional documentation.

If you qualify, you can be eligible to adjust your status. This means you can receive a green card without ever leaving the United States.

How Can I Get a Green Card if I’m an Immediate Relative?

If you do not have a criminal record and entered the country legally, you may be eligible for adjustment of status. I handle adjustment of status applications via an electronic application process. I gather information through an electronic questionnaire and send you a list of documents I will need to process the application. After I receive the documents, we can generally get the paperwork signed and submitted within a week.

After we submit the application, USCIS processes the application and requests additional evidence if necessary. I help my clients throughout the process, from applying for the interview.

If you are an immediate relative of a U.S. citizen, you could be eligible for immigration benefits, including adjustment of status. You need an immigration attorney you can trust. Call or text me at 617-295-7500, and let’s get started!