Obtaining a green card through a family member who is a lawful permanent resident, also known as a green card holder, is a common way for foreign nationals to become permanent residents of the United States. If you are the spouse or child of a lawful permanent resident, you may be eligible for a green card through the family-based second preference category (FB-2).
To be eligible for an FB-2 green card, you must be the spouse or child (unmarried and under 21 years of age) of a lawful permanent resident. If you are the spouse of a green card holder, you can apply for a green card either inside or outside the United States. If you are the child of a green card holder, you must apply for a green card from outside the United States.
To apply for an FB-2 green card, your spouse or parent must first file a Petition for Alien Relative (Form I-130) on your behalf. The petition must be approved by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) before you can move on to the next step in the process.
Once the petition is approved, the next step depends on your location. If you are already in the United States, you may be able to apply for a green card through adjustment of status. If you are outside the United States, you will need to consular process through a U.S. embassy or consulate in your home country.
It's important to note that there may be a waiting list for an FB-2 green card, as there is a yearly limit on the number of visas available in this category. The waiting time will depend on the demand for visas in your country and the availability of visas in your preference category.
Overall, the process of obtaining a green card through a spouse or child who is a lawful permanent resident can be complex and time-consuming. It is recommended to seek the guidance of an experienced immigration attorney to ensure that all necessary steps are taken and to avoid any potential delays or issues.