This article was last updated and fact checked on October 15, 2024 by Mani Karthik.
How to Sponsor Parents for US Green Cards
So, you’re thinking about bringing your parents to live with you in the United States. That’s a big step! And the way to do it is by sponsoring them for a US green card.
The process might sound complicated at first, but don’t worry, it’s totally doable. Let’s break it down so you know exactly what you need to do to make this happen.
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Who Can Sponsor Their Parents for a Green Card?
First things first—only US citizens can sponsor their parents for a green card.
If you’re a green card holder (permanent resident) yourself, you can’t file for your parents until you become a citizen.
Additionally, you need to be at least 21 years old to sponsor your parents.
If you meet those requirements, you’re ready to move on to the next steps!
Tip: Only US citizens aged 21 and above can sponsor their parents for a green card.
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Step 1: File Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative)
To start the process, you need to file Form I-130, the Petition for Alien Relative, with USCIS (United States Citizenship and Immigration Services).
This form is your official way of telling the US government, “Hey, I’m a US citizen, and I want to bring my parents to live here.”
You’ll need to submit a separate I-130 form for each parent.
For example, if you’re sponsoring both your mother and father, you’ll file two I-130 petitions.
Documents You’ll Need:
- Proof of your US citizenship: A birth certificate, passport, or naturalization certificate.
- Proof of your relationship with your parents: This could be a birth certificate showing your parents’ names.
- Marriage certificate (if you’re sponsoring your father and your parents are married).
Step 2: Wait for USCIS to Process the Petition
Once your I-130 petition is filed, USCIS will begin reviewing it.
This part of the process can take several months (or even longer, depending on backlogs).
You’ll receive a receipt notice once USCIS accepts the application. Then, it’s a bit of a waiting game until you get a decision notice approving or denying the petition.
If the petition is approved, it’s sent to the National Visa Center (NVC) if your parents are outside the US, or it moves on to Adjustment of Status if they’re already in the US.
Tip: Keep an eye on your mailbox for updates. It can take a while for USCIS to process petitions, so patience is key here.
Step 3: Adjustment of Status or Consular Processing?
Now that USCIS has approved your petition, how your parents get their green cards depends on whether they’re inside or outside the US.
If Your Parents Are Inside the US
If your parents are already in the US on a valid visa, they can apply for Adjustment of Status (AOS). This means they can change their status from a visa holder to a permanent resident without leaving the country.
They’ll need to file Form I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status).
While waiting for their green card, they can also apply for work authorization and travel permits.
If Your Parents Are Outside the US
If your parents are outside the US, they’ll go through Consular Processing. This involves submitting paperwork to the National Visa Center (NVC), attending an interview at a US consulate in their country, and receiving an immigrant visa to enter the US.
Once they arrive, they’ll be admitted as lawful permanent residents.
Step 4: Provide Affidavit of Support
As the sponsor, you’ll need to file an Affidavit of Support (Form I-864). This document shows that you have enough financial resources to support your parents once they arrive in the US.
You’ll need to meet certain income requirements based on the size of your household and show that your income is 125% above the federal poverty line.
You can also use joint sponsors if your income alone doesn’t meet the requirement.
Tip: Make sure to gather financial documents like tax returns, pay stubs, and bank statements to prove your income.
Step 5: Attend the Visa Interview (Consular Processing Only)
If your parents are going through Consular Processing, they’ll be scheduled for an interview at the US embassy or consulate in their country.
At the interview, they’ll need to bring all the required documents, including their passport, birth certificate, and proof of your relationship.
After the interview, if everything checks out, they’ll receive their immigrant visa.
Step 6: Welcome Your Parents to the US!
Once the green card process is completed, your parents will officially become US permanent residents.
If they went through Adjustment of Status, their green card will be mailed to them. If they went through Consular Processing, they’ll receive an immigrant visa, which they’ll use to enter the US and receive their green card upon arrival.
They can now live and work in the US, and eventually, they can even apply for US citizenship if they wish.
Final Thoughts
Sponsoring your parents for a green card is a beautiful way to reunite your family in the United States.
While the process may seem overwhelming, taking it step by step makes it manageable. Be sure to file the right forms, provide the necessary documents, and stay patient as you wait for USCIS to process the application.
With a little patience and preparation, you’ll have your parents with you in no time!
