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U.S. GOVERNMENT > Foreign Policy and International Affairs > Visas > Visa Types for Immigrants

Visa Types for Immigrants

In general, in order to be eligible to apply for an immigrant visa, a foreign citizen must be sponsored by a U.S. citizen relative(s) or by a prospective employer. Unlike most other immigrant categories, Immediate Relatives are not subject to numerical limits under immigration law.  For an overview of the types of immigrant visas available under immigration law, please see Immigrant Visa Classifications on the USCIS Website.  Major immigrant categories are:

  • Immediate Relatives
  • Special Immigrants
  • Family-sponsored
  • Employer-sponsored

Additionally the Diversity Visa Program provides a certain number of permanent resident visas annually. These visas are drawn from countries with low rates of immigration to the U.S. For information specific to each visa type, please click on the links below.

Family Immigration
Adopting a Child
Marriage to a Foreign National
Diversity Visa Program
Employment Visas

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
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The U.S. Government assumes no responsibility or legal liability for the accuracy or timeliness of the information provided in this section. Please contact the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in your area for the most current information regarding visas and legal requirements.