A U.S. citizen can file Form I-130 to petition for their spouse, children (regardless of age or marital status), parents, and siblings. The citizen must be at least 21 years old to petition for a parent or sibling.

A lawful permanent resident can file Form I-130 for their spouse and unmarried children (under 21 or over 21). Green card holders cannot petition for parents or siblings.

To file Form, I-130, the petitioner must show proof of a qualifying family relationship, such as a marriage certificate, birth certificate, or adoption decree. The form is the first step toward helping a relative become a permanent resident (green card holder) of the United States.