Effective Strategies for U.S. Citizens to Support and Bring Comfort to Their Parents
How can US citizens bring their parents to the United States? This is a question that many families face, especially those with parents who wish to reunite with their children and enjoy the benefits of living in the US. There are several legal pathways available for US citizens to bring their parents to the country, each with its own set of requirements and procedures. This article will explore the most common methods and provide guidance on how to navigate the process successfully.
The most common ways for US citizens to bring their parents to the United States are through family-based immigration and the diversity visa lottery program. Here’s a closer look at each option:
1. Family-Based Immigration
Family-based immigration allows US citizens to petition for their parents to come to the United States. This process is divided into two categories: immediate relatives and family preference.
a. Immediate Relatives: US citizens can petition for their parents to become lawful permanent residents (LPRs) if they are classified as immediate relatives. Immediate relatives include parents, spouses, and unmarried children under the age of 21. The advantage of this category is that there are no numerical limits, and applications are processed in the order they are received.
b. Family Preference: If the parents do not fall under the immediate relative category, the US citizen may still file a petition under the family preference category. This category is divided into several preference categories, including unmarried children over the age of 21, married children of any age, and siblings of adult US citizens. However, these categories have annual numerical limits, which can lead to long waiting periods.
To apply for family-based immigration, the US citizen must file Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Once the petition is approved, the parents must go through the consular processing stage, where they will apply for an immigrant visa at a US embassy or consulate in their home country.
2. Diversity Visa Lottery Program
The Diversity Visa Lottery Program, also known as the DV Lottery, is a random selection process that makes it possible for citizens of countries with low immigration rates to obtain permanent residency in the United States. While this program is not specifically designed for parents, some parents may qualify if they are the spouse or unmarried children of a US citizen.
To participate in the DV Lottery, individuals must meet the following criteria:
a. Be a native, or a native of a country whose citizens are eligible to participate in the DV Lottery.
b. Have a high school diploma or its equivalent, or have two years of work experience within the past five years in an occupation that requires at least two years of training or experience.
Winners of the lottery must complete an application for an immigrant visa and undergo medical examinations and interviews at a US embassy or consulate.
In conclusion, US citizens have several options to bring their parents to the United States. While the process can be complex and time-consuming, understanding the available pathways and following the proper procedures can help families achieve their goal of reuniting. It is advisable to consult with an immigration attorney or a qualified expert to ensure that the process is handled correctly and efficiently.
