Bringing Parents to the USA- A Guide for U.S. Citizens Seeking Family Reunification
Can a US citizen bring their parents to the United States? This is a common question among individuals who are looking to reunite with their families. The answer to this question depends on several factors, including the relationship between the US citizen and their parents, the parents’ country of origin, and the specific immigration laws and regulations in place.
The United States offers various immigration programs that allow US citizens to bring their parents to the country. One of the most common ways is through the Family-Based Immigration process. This process allows US citizens to petition for their parents to become lawful permanent residents (LPRs), commonly known as green card holders.
Family-Based Immigration: The Process
The Family-Based Immigration process for bringing parents to the United States involves several steps. First, the US citizen must establish that they are a biological or adoptive child of the parent they wish to bring to the United States. The relationship between the US citizen and their parent must be documented through birth certificates, adoption papers, or other legal documents.
Once the relationship is established, the US citizen must file Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This form must be accompanied by evidence of the relationship, such as a copy of the petitioner’s birth certificate and the beneficiary’s passport.
After USCIS receives the petition, it will be sent to the National Visa Center (NVC) for processing. The NVC will then send the petition to the appropriate U.S. embassy or consulate in the beneficiary’s country of origin. The embassy or consulate will conduct interviews and process the visa application.
Eligibility and Waiting Times
To be eligible for the Family-Based Immigration process, the US citizen must be at least 21 years old. Additionally, the parents must be the citizen’s parents by birth or adoption. However, stepchildren and half-siblings may not be eligible for this process.
The waiting time for a parent to obtain a green card through this process can vary significantly. Factors such as the country of origin, demand for visas, and the number of applicants can affect the waiting period. Some countries may have shorter waiting times, while others may have longer wait times.
Alternatives to Family-Based Immigration
If a US citizen’s parents are not eligible for Family-Based Immigration or if the waiting time is too long, there are alternative options to consider. One such option is the Diversity Visa Lottery, also known as the Green Card Lottery. This program offers a chance for individuals from countries with low immigration rates to obtain a green card through a random selection process.
Another alternative is the K-1 Fiancé(e) Visa, which allows US citizens to bring their foreign fiancé(e) to the United States for marriage. If the marriage takes place within 90 days of the fiancé(e)’s arrival in the United States, the fiancé(e) may apply for adjustment of status to a permanent resident.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a US citizen can bring their parents to the United States through the Family-Based Immigration process. However, eligibility, waiting times, and the specific circumstances of the family will determine the feasibility of this option. It is essential for individuals to consult with an immigration attorney or expert to understand the best course of action for their situation. Whether through Family-Based Immigration, the Diversity Visa Lottery, or other means, reuniting with family in the United States is a goal worth pursuing.
