Family-based immigration can help people stay connected to their loved ones. Those who legally enter the country can sometimes support their loved ones who want to live in the United States as well. For example, people with visas intending to work in the United States can apply for related visas that allow them to travel with their children or spouses.
People who have green cards may be able to assist their loved ones with obtaining permanent resident status as well. Many immigration opportunities focus on immediate members of an individual’s household. Frequently, immigrants aspire to include their spouses and children as they pursue opportunities in the United States.
However, many people want to share their good fortune with other family members. They want their loved ones to enjoy the rights and security that may come from legally entering the United States. Some people want to help their parents retire in comfort or have an opportunity to bond with their grandchildren.
When can immigrants living in the United States bring their parents to the country as permanent residents?
When they are citizens
Immigrants with different statuses can offer opportunities to their children or spouses. There are fewer options for those who want to assist their extended family members. People hoping to sponsor their parents for immigration typically need to become citizens if they are not already citizens.
United States citizens who are at least 18 years of age can petition the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for a green card for their parents. Their parents must be able to pass a background check and undergo the other reviews necessary to qualify as a permanent resident.
The citizen supporting their parents also needs documentation affirming their relationship with their foreign national parent. Birth certificates and adoption paperwork can help validate familial relationships for immigration purposes. In scenarios involving unmarried fathers whose children have entered the United States, it may be necessary to prove that a father provided financial support for his children and validated his relationship with them for immigration to be an option.
For those who are already permanent residents, a desire to help a parent could be a reason to consider naturalization. Those hoping to sponsor their parents for family-based immigration opportunities may need help evaluating their options.