How to Sponsor a Family Member for a Green Card

Of all the different ways to obtain a green card, family-based immigration is one of the most common. Citizens of the United States and lawful permanent residents can sponsor certain relatives for a green card through a consular process or an adjustment of status, depending on whether they meet the eligibility requirements. Family members outside the United States must go through the consular process, while family members inside the U.S. can seek an adjustment of status. Below, one of our New York City immigration attorneys explains in further detail.

Determine if You are Eligible

You must meet specific eligibility requirements to sponsor a family member to enter the United States. These are as follows:

• Be a lawful permanent resident or citizen of the United States
• Submit evidence showing your relationship to the relative you want to sponsor
• Show you can financially support the relative you want to sponsor

Determine the Relative You Want to Sponsor

As a lawful permanent resident or citizen, you can sponsor the following relatives:

• Spouse
• Children who are under 21 years old and not married
• Parents, if you are older than 21 and a U.S. citizen
• Siblings, if you are older than 21 and a U.S. citizen
• Children over 21, or married children, and you are a U.S. citizen
• Children over 21 and unmarried for residents

File the Petition

Sponsors must file their petition for a family member’s visa with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The petition outlines the legal relationship between you and the relative you wish to sponsor. You must file this petition regardless of whether you are pursuing a consular process or an adjustment of status.

Wait for Approval

After the USCIS receives your petition, it will review it and inform you of its decision. USCIS will direct your application to the National Visa Center for additional processing if approved. This process applies if your relative is going through consular processing. If your relative is seeking an adjustment of status, they can file the necessary petition along with their visa petition, or once their visa is approved.

Attend the Interview

Sometimes, family members are required to attend an interview with USCIS. If approved after the interview, a green card will be issued to your family member. If they are denied, they will be told why they were not approved.

Call Our Immigration Lawyer in New York City Today

While family-based immigration is one of the most common types, the process is still complex. At Nunez Law Firm, our immigration lawyer in New York City can guide you through it, advise you of the eligibility requirements, and give you and your family the best chance of a successful outcome. Call 917-708-1072 or fill out our online form to schedule a consultation and to get the legal help you need.