If you are a U.S. citizen and want to sponsor your parent for a green card, family-based immigration may provide a path to lawful permanent residence. The process begins with a petition filed with USCIS. It may continue through adjustment of status (if your parent is already in the U.S.) or consular processing (if your parent is outside of the U.S.).
Do I Qualify?
U.S. Citizen Petitioner
You must be a U.S. citizen to sponsor a parent for a green card.
Petitioner Must Be At Least 21 Years Old
You must be at least 21 years old at the time the petition is filed.
Qualifying Parent-Child Relationship
You must be able to establish a qualifying parent-child relationship.
Parent Is Eligible For Immigration Benefits
Your parent must generally be eligible to receive an immigrant visa or adjust status.
Financial Sponsorship Requirement
You must generally be willing and able to provide financial sponsorship through Form I-864.
Admissibility Requirement
Your parent must generally be admissible to the U.S.
Documents to Gather
Proof of U.S. Citizenship
U.S. passport, U.S. birth certificate, naturalization certificate, certificate of citizenship, or Consular Report of Birth Abroad (CRBA).
Proof Of Parent-Child Relationship
Birth certificates, adoption records, legitimation records, or other documentation establishing the qualifying relationship.
Identity And Civil Documents
Passports, government-issued identification documents, birth certificates, and passport-style photographs.
Immigration Records (If Applicable)
Prior immigration filings, admission records, visas, and related immigration documents.
Financial Documentation
Federal tax returns, W-2s, pay stubs, employment verification, and other documentation required for Form I-864.
Additional Documents May Be Required
Marriage certificates, divorce decrees, legal name change documents, police records, certified English translations, and other supporting documentation depending on the circumstances of the case.
Filing Fees
Attorney Fees
Government Fees and Miscellaneous Costs
Timeline
Schedule A Consultation With An Attorney
The process of obtaining a green card for a parent involves several stages and documentation requirements. The process generally begins with an initial consultation.
File Form I-130 With USCIS
Form I-130 is filed with USCIS to establish the qualifying parent-child relationship. USCIS processing times vary and are subject to change. For the most current information from USCIS, check their Case Processing Times.
Adjustment Of Status Or Consular Processing
Depending on the circumstances, the case may proceed through adjustment of status within the U.S. or consular processing abroad.
Affidavit Of Support
Form I-864, Affidavit of Support, is prepared and submitted as part of the immigration process.
Medical Examination
A medical examination may be required as part of the immigration process. This examination must generally be completed by a USCIS-designated civil surgeon or an approved panel physician.
Interview Preparation and Interview (If Required)
Before an immigration interview, we review the required documents and discuss what to expect during the interview process.
Decision and Lawful Permanent Residence
USCIS or the Department of State issues a decision after reviewing the application and supporting documentation. If approved, lawful permanent resident status is granted and a permanent resident card (green card) is issued.
Complex Case Factors
Immigration Violations
Prior immigration violations, unlawful presence, or removal proceedings may affect eligibility.
Criminal History
Certain criminal convictions or arrests may affect eligibility or require additional review.
Affidavit Of Support Issues
Financial sponsorship concerns may require additional evidence or alternative sponsorship.
Disclaimer & Attorney Advertising: The information on this website is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Visiting this site, submitting a contact form, or contacting the Law Office of Ashley Weston does not create an attorney-client relationship. An attorney-client relationship is only established through a written, signed retainer agreement.
The Law Office of Ashley Weston is a Professional Law Corporation incorporated in Sacramento and licensed to practice law in the State of California. Our practice is limited to California Limited-Scope services and Federal Immigration Law nationwide. We do not practice the state laws of jurisdictions outside of California.
All legal matters are fact-specific, and prior testimonials or results do not guarantee a similar outcome. This website constitutes attorney advertising under California Rules of Professional Conduct and applicable rules in other jurisdictions. Attorney responsible for this advertisement: Ashley Weston, Esq., Sacramento, California.