Green Card Holders- Is It Possible to Apply for Parental Citizenship in the USA-

Can a US green card holder apply for parents? This is a common question among individuals who have obtained permanent residency in the United States and wish to bring their parents over. The answer to this question lies in the family-based immigration process and the specific visa categories available. In this article, we will explore the options available for US green card holders to apply for their parents and the requirements they must meet.

The process of applying for parents as immigrants in the United States is known as the “Family-based immigration.” There are two primary ways in which a US green card holder can apply for their parents: through the “Immediate Relative” category or the “Family Preference” category.

Immediate Relative Category

The Immediate Relative category is reserved for the most immediate family members of a US citizen, including parents. A US green card holder, however, does not fall under this category since permanent residents are not eligible to sponsor their immediate relatives for immigration. Therefore, a US green card holder cannot directly apply for their parents under the Immediate Relative category.

Family Preference Category

The Family Preference category is designed for the extended family members of US citizens and permanent residents. This category is further divided into several subcategories, with the second preference (F2A) specifically for the spouse and unmarried children under 21 of a US permanent resident. Unfortunately, this also does not allow a US green card holder to sponsor their parents directly.

Alternative Options

Although a US green card holder cannot sponsor their parents directly, there are alternative options available. One such option is for the green card holder to first become a US citizen. Once naturalized, the individual can then sponsor their parents under the Immediate Relative category. This process can take several years, as the wait times for US citizenship can be lengthy.

Another alternative is for the green card holder to marry a US citizen. By doing so, the green card holder can then sponsor their parents under the Family Preference category (F2A). However, this option is not suitable for everyone, as it requires entering into a marriage that may not be genuine.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a US green card holder cannot directly apply for their parents under the Immediate Relative or Family Preference categories. However, there are alternative options available, such as becoming a US citizen or marrying a US citizen. It is essential for individuals in this situation to understand the complexities of family-based immigration and consult with an immigration attorney to determine the best course of action for their specific circumstances.