Depending on different factors, application for US residency through the process of adjustment of status is obtained in two steps. The first step is to obtain an immigrant visa. The immigrant visa can be obtained through a family member (family petition), a job (a work immigrant visa), an investor's visa, or a special type of immigrant visa (VAWA, U visa, T visa, etc). Once the person has an approved immigrant visa, then they can apply for a green card. Sometimes we can ask for the visa and the residency at the same time. There are specific circumstances in which a person can apply for residency within the United States. Many times, a person can have a US citizen family member who can file a visa petition for them but does not qualify to apply for residency within the United States. If you feel that this may be something you qualify to assist you in evaluating your case.