What Documents are Required to Sponsor a Relative?
Family-based immigration is one of the most common types in the United States. Below, our New York immigration lawyer outlines the documents you will need when sponsoring a relative. If your foreign national relative wants to immigrate to the United States, you may be able to sponsor them.
Only specific individuals are eligible to sponsor a relative for entry into the country, and the process involves several steps. You will also need several different types of documentation to prove that you and your relative are both eligible for the process. Below, our New York immigration lawyer explains what these are.
Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative
Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, is the form you will complete and submit to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. This form establishes the relationship between you and the relative you are sponsoring and determines whether your loved one will seek an adjustment of status once they are in the U.S., or if they will use consular processing. Depending on where you are located, a Form I-485 is required after an I-130 is approved.
Other Documents Proving Income
Along with Form I-864, you must also submit your federal tax returns for the last three years, as well as other evidence of your income, such as W-2s. These documents can prove that you can financially support your relative.
Documents Proving Eligibility
Not all immigrants are eligible to sponsor a relative to enter the United States to live and work. You are only eligible if you are an American citizen or a lawful permanent resident. If you were born in the United States, your birth certificate can prove that you are eligible. If you are a lawful permanent resident, you can get a certificate of citizenship.
Documents Proving the Relationship
You will also have to prove the relationship between you and your relative. For example, if you are sponsoring your parents, your birth certificate showing their name can establish the relationship, or a marriage certificate to prove that you are married to your relative.
Other Supporting Documents
Depending on your situation and the relationship between you and your loved one, you may need to submit other supporting documents, as well. For example, if you are sponsoring your stepparent, you must submit the marriage certificate between your stepparent and the biological parent. You will also have to submit your birth certificate. A New York immigration lawyer can advise on the other supporting documents you may need.
Our Immigration Lawyer in New York Can Advise on Your Case
Although it is possible to petition for a relative to enter the United States, proving your case is not easy. At Nunez Law, our New York immigration lawyer can review your case, advise on the supporting documents you need, and guide you through the process so you obtain the best outcome possible. Call us now at 917-708-1072 or fill out our online form to schedule a consultation and to learn more about how we can help.