How Long is the Process to Sponsor Your Parents for Permanent Residence in the USA-_1
How Long to Sponsor Parents to USA
The process of sponsoring parents to come to the United States can be a lengthy and complex journey. Many individuals and families are eager to reunite with their loved ones, but understanding the duration of this process is crucial. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of how long it typically takes to sponsor parents to the USA.
Initial Steps and Eligibility
The first step in sponsoring parents to the USA is determining eligibility. U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents (LPRs) can sponsor their parents for immigration. The sponsor must meet certain requirements, such as having a certain level of income and being able to demonstrate the ability to support their parents financially.
Form I-130 Petition
Once eligibility is established, the sponsor must file Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This form is used to establish a family relationship between the sponsor and the parents. The processing time for Form I-130 can vary, but it typically takes around 6 to 8 months for approval.
Priority Date and Visa Availability
After Form I-130 is approved, the next step is to wait for an available visa. The waiting time for a visa depends on the country of origin of the parents and the preference category they fall under. There are five preference categories for family-based immigration, and each category has its own waiting period.
First Preference (Unmarried Sons and Daughters of U.S. Citizens)
Parents of U.S. citizens fall under the first preference category. The current waiting time for this category is approximately 3 to 5 years, depending on the country of origin.
Second Preference (Spouses and Unmarried Sons and Daughters of LPRs)
Parents of LPRs fall under the second preference category. The waiting time for this category can vary widely, ranging from 8 to 10 years or even longer, depending on the country of origin.
Visa Application and Interview
Once a visa becomes available, the parents must apply for an immigrant visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate in their country of origin. They will then undergo a medical examination and an interview with a consular officer. The processing time for the visa application and interview can take several months.
Entry to the USA
Once the visa is approved, the parents can travel to the United States and adjust their status to permanent resident. The entire process, from the initial filing of Form I-130 to the parents’ arrival in the USA, can take anywhere from 5 to 10 years or more, depending on the preference category and country of origin.
Conclusion
Sponsoring parents to the USA is a lengthy process that requires patience and perseverance. Understanding the various steps and the expected duration of each stage can help individuals and families better navigate the immigration process. While the exact time frame may vary, it is important to be prepared for a potentially lengthy journey to reunite with loved ones.
