If you are a U.S. permanent resident, you can file petitions for your spouse and unmarried children under 21. The process may take a few years depending on visa backlogs for Nigeria. Patience and correct paperwork will be key.

If you are a U.S. citizen, the wait time is shorter. Spouses and unmarried children under 21 are considered “immediate relatives” and do not face visa quotas.

If you’re still on a temporary visa, you can’t petition for them yet. But once you adjust to permanent resident or citizen status, family sponsorship becomes possible. While waiting, make sure you maintain strong documentation of your relationship. This will be very important when the petitions are reviewed.

You can petition for your wife and kids using Form I-130, and if you're a U.S. citizen, they may join you in about 12–18 months