[header] How to immigrate into the united states permanently [title] Assess whether you are eligible for permanent resident status in the united states. [step] Permanent resident status in the us is granted for four main reasons: family ties, employment, status as a refugee, and to promote diversity. If you are granted permanent resident status, you will be given a permanent visa, otherwise known as a green card. 
[substeps] To qualify for permanent resident status due to family ties you must be directly related to a us citizen or green-card holder. That means that you are the spouse, child, parent, or sibling of a us citizen.