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Steps to get a green card for an immediate family member

On Behalf of | Jul 20, 2022 | Immigration Law |

The U.S. government allows U.S. citizens to apply for a Green Card for as many immediate family members as necessary. An immediate family member is a spouse, an unmarried child under the age of 21 and a parent.

Family members of U.S. citizens in this category are not subject to immigration quotas and do not have to get put on a waiting list to immigrate.

File a Petition

You must file a Petition for Alien Relative, Form I-130, to start the process of getting your immediate relative a green card. The purpose of filing this form is to establish the relationship between the applicant and the U.S. citizen. You must also file an Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, Form I-485. By filing the Form I-130 on behalf of a relative, you agree to financially sponsor that individual when they immigrate.

Family Member in the U.S.

If your immediate family member is already in the U.S., you can file both Form I-130 and I-485 simultaneously. After your family member gets their visa number, they can request to adjust their status to a Green Card holder or lawful permanent resident.

Family Member Abroad

If your family member is not in the U.S., the Department of State will allow your relative to apply for a visa after completing approval of the I-130. The National Visa Center will send the petition to the U.S. consulate where your family member resides, and they will contact them with additional information.

The U.S. government recognizes the importance of allowing its citizens to keep their families together.

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