Citizens and permanent residents (“green card holders”) are eligible to file a petition for certain family members.  The law has created categories for family members depending on the immigration status of the petitioner and the kind of family relationship (parent, child or sibling).  Depending on these classifications, there are certain waiting times for the family members to obtain a visa.  Some family members may apply for permanent residence in the US.  Others will have to attend an interview at the American Consulate in their country of origin.