Family members of U.S. citizens and permanent residents may apply for immediate relatives to come to the United States and obtain a green card. Family members eligible for a green card include spouses, children, parents and siblings. The petitioner must be at least 21 years old and have a valid immigration status in order to sponsor a relative.

In addition, the petitioner must be able to demonstrate that he or she can provide financial support to the sponsored relative. Once the petition is approved, the sponsored relative must undergo a medical examination and an interview with an immigration officer before being granted a green card.