An immigrant who is exempt from the numerical limitations imposed on immigration to the United States due to his/her close relationship to a U.S. citizen. Immediate relatives, if they meet certain legal requirements, include spouses of citizens, children and stepchildren of citizens who are under 21 years of age and unmarried, and parents of adult citizens. Under certain circumstances, an alien continues to be exempt from the limitations even if the family relationship ends, such as due to death or domestic violence.