Green Card Holders Gain Path to Bring Parents to the USA- A Comprehensive Guide
Green card holders can apply for parents to join them in the United States, providing them with a pathway to permanent residency. This process, known as the Family-Based Immigration, is designed to reunite families and allow parents of green card holders to enjoy the benefits of living in the United States. In this article, we will explore the requirements, process, and considerations for green card holders applying for their parents to obtain a green card.
The first step in the process is for the green card holder to file a Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This form establishes the relationship between the green card holder and the parent and is a crucial document in the application process. The green card holder must provide proof of their relationship, such as a birth certificate or marriage certificate, to support the petition.
Once the Form I-130 is submitted, USCIS will review the petition and determine whether it meets the requirements for family-based immigration. If the petition is approved, the applicant’s parent will be placed in a priority category based on the age of the parent. There are four preference categories for immediate relatives, which include parents, spouses, and unmarried children under 21 years of age.
The application process can be lengthy, especially since the number of visas available in each preference category is limited. For green card holders applying for their parents, the priority date is the date the Form I-130 was filed. USCIS will issue an immigrant visa number to the applicant once the priority date becomes current, allowing them to proceed with the application process.
After receiving the immigrant visa number, the applicant’s parent must undergo a medical examination and an interview at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate in their home country. The medical examination ensures that the applicant is not inadmissible due to health reasons, while the interview determines the applicant’s eligibility for a green card.
Once the applicant’s parent passes the medical examination and interview, they will be granted an immigrant visa and can travel to the United States. Upon arrival, they will be required to complete the adjustment of status process, which involves submitting Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, to USCIS. If the adjustment of status is approved, the applicant’s parent will become a lawful permanent resident of the United States.
It is important for green card holders to understand that there are certain limitations and exceptions to the family-based immigration process. For instance, applicants with a criminal record or certain health conditions may be deemed inadmissible. Additionally, applicants must prove that they have the financial means to support their parents and that their parents will not become a public charge.
In conclusion, green card holders can apply for their parents to obtain a green card through the Family-Based Immigration process. While the process can be lengthy and complex, it provides a valuable opportunity for families to reunite and enjoy the benefits of living in the United States. By understanding the requirements and considerations involved, green card holders can navigate the process more effectively and increase their chances of successfully reuniting with their parents.
