The dream of moving to the United States is one that millions around the world share. However, the path to making this dream a reality can be complex and challenging. 

One of the key steps in achieving this is understanding the legal avenues available for immigrating to the U.S. In this comprehensive guide, we will discuss seven legal ways to move to the United States for permanent residency.

What Is It?

Family-sponsored immigration is one of the most common ways people move to the United States. U.S. citizens or permanent residents can sponsor certain family members to get a green card, which allows them to live and work in the U.S. indefinitely.

Eligibility Criteria

- Sponsor must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.

- Relationship to the sponsor must be that of a spouse, child, parent, or sibling (other extended family in some cases).

Process

1. Sponsor files a petition with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

2. After approval, the application is forwarded to the National Visa Center.

3. The sponsored family member attends an interview at a U.S. consulate or embassy.

4. If approved, the family member receives a visa to enter the U.S. and later gets a green card.

Points to Consider

- Wait times can vary greatly depending on the relationship to the sponsor and the sponsor's status (citizen vs permanent resident).

- Financial sponsorship (Affidavit of Support) is usually required.

Recommended Reading

USCIS Family-Based Green Cards