Family relationships are one of the simplest ways for people to qualify for immigration opportunities. Foreign nationals who have loved ones in the United States can obtain visas or even green cards. They can secure practical support while living in the United States that may help them eventually become citizens.
Many people hope to help their close loved ones successfully immigrate. Parents frequently aspire to share their good fortune with their children who live abroad. There are a number of scenarios in which parents can help their children legally enter the United States.
When can children legally immigrate based on a relationship with a parent?
When a parent secures a visa
Most visa programs extend opportunities to immediate family members. The professional, investor or student legally entering the United States can apply for visas for members of their household. Spouses of those with visas are usually eligible for their own visas. Certain children can also request related visas. Typically, only unmarried children under the age of 21 can obtain visas related to a parent’s visa.
When a parent becomes a permanent resident
Adjusting one’s status allows a visa holder or other immigrant to become a permanent resident. Those who obtain green cards can remain in the country indefinitely. They only have to renew their green card once a decade. They also have more opportunities to help their loved ones enter the United States. Parents who obtain green cards can help their children obtain green cards. There are two types of family preference visas available for the children of permanent residents. Unmarried children under the age of 21 receive the highest priority consideration. Permanent residents can also help their unmarried children over the age of 21 pursue green cards.
When they are citizens
Both natural-born citizens and naturalized citizens can help their loved ones immigrate. Citizens can help their children immigrate regardless of age and marital status. Citizens are the only ones who can qualify to bring a married adult child into the country. Citizen parents can offer immigration opportunities to their children regardless of their age and marital status. The children seeking visas or green cards need to meet medical qualifications and must be able to pass a background check.
Parents hoping to make use of family-based immigration programs may need assistance reviewing their options, and that’s okay. Learning more about family-based immigration can help people share their good fortune with their children and other loved ones.