Eligibility Guide- Can I Apply for Parent Green Card Status in the USA-
Can I Apply for Parents with Green Card?
The question of whether or not you can apply for your parents to obtain a green card is a common concern for many immigrants in the United States. The answer to this question depends on several factors, including your immigration status, your relationship with your parents, and the current immigration laws and regulations. In this article, we will explore the process of applying for your parents with a green card and provide you with the necessary information to determine if you are eligible.
Understanding the Green Card Process
A green card, officially known as a United States Permanent Resident Card, is a document that proves a person is a lawful permanent resident of the United States. To obtain a green card for your parents, you must file a petition with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). There are two primary ways to apply for your parents: through family-based immigration or through the Diversity Visa Lottery.
Family-Based Immigration
Family-based immigration is the most common method for applying for your parents with a green card. To qualify, you must be a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident, and you must prove that you have a qualifying relationship with your parents. The following relationships are eligible:
– Unmarried children under the age of 21
– Spouses of U.S. citizens
– Parents of U.S. citizens over the age of 21
– Brothers and sisters of U.S. citizens who are at least 21 years old
Applying for Your Parents as a U.S. Citizen
If you are a U.S. citizen, you can file Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, on behalf of your parents. Once the petition is approved, your parents will be placed in a priority category based on the type of relationship you have with them. The waiting time for a green card can vary depending on the category, but it can take several years.
Applying for Your Parents as a Lawful Permanent Resident
If you are a lawful permanent resident, you can still file Form I-130 for your parents, but they must wait until you become a U.S. citizen before they can apply for a green card. This process can be lengthy, as it requires you to wait for a certain period of time before you can naturalize as a U.S. citizen.
Alternative Options
If you are not eligible for family-based immigration, there are alternative options for applying for your parents with a green card. These include:
– The Diversity Visa Lottery: This program offers 50,000 visas annually to applicants from countries with low immigration rates to the United States.
– Employment-based immigration: If your parents have a job offer in the United States or if they have special skills that are in demand, they may be eligible for an employment-based green card.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the answer to the question “Can I apply for parents with green card?” depends on your immigration status, your relationship with your parents, and the current immigration laws. If you are a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident with a qualifying relationship to your parents, you may be eligible to apply for their green card through family-based immigration. However, it is important to consult with an immigration attorney to ensure that you meet all the requirements and understand the process before you begin.
