For many parents of U.S. citizens, the idea of living legally and permanently in America is usually a very desirable option. Furthermore, there is no limit to the number of individuals who are allowed to obtain U.S. citizenship through this formula.
Most often than not, married children are usually more inclined to assist their aging parents to immigrate into America as well, which only makes the entire procedure even easier for everyone involved.
One may be surprised to know that due process will take place before any parent can be accepted as a U.S. citizen. Parents who wish to become permanent residents must first file Form I-130 Petition for Alien Relative, after which they need to wait for about three or four months until USCIS decides their case.
Generally, the United States immigration laws provide for several ways that an individual may be able to obtain U.S. citizenship, which includes being admitted as a refugee, marrying a U.S. citizen, or if one is born in the U.S. territory. However, here are some basic facts to remember about filing petitions for parents of United States citizens:
- Parents can file petitions themselves once they become permanent residents
- The petition will only be accepted after USCIS approves another step called ‘Adjustment of Status’ which occurs when green cards are given out to parents who have lived within the boundaries of America for at least five years continuously before submitting their applications.
Parents who decide to apply themselves should always be aware of the fact that they will need to file forms I-864 Affidavit of Support and I-864W Certification to Income Requirement, which is both very necessary for their children to financially support them.
To file petitions for U.S. citizenship, parents need to send out applications, proof of age, proof of relationship, proof of financials as well as many other documents concerning their past life in their country or region of origin.
However, if USCIS is not satisfied with all the documentation presented in support of an application, they can always request more evidence to improve upon the case once again before deciding on whether or not parents should live legally in America.
Generally, the entire procedure of filing for U.S. citizenship for parents can take anywhere between one and three years to complete. Once approved, parents will need to appear in front of an immigration officer to be sworn in as U.S. citizens before they can begin enjoying all the benefits that come with it including voting, obtaining Social Security numbers and unrestricted travel around America without needing a visa or passport from their country of origin.
What Requirements Are Needed by Children Who Want to Bring Their Parents to the Us?
The requirements are that you have become a permanent resident of the United States first before you apply to bring your parent(s) into America on green cards. You should also note that both you and your parent(s) must be able to prove that you are related as well as being financially stable to support them once they arrive.
- Your parent(s) will also have to file an I-130 Petition for Alien Relative, after which your U.S. citizenship application begins with USCIS by filing out forms I-485 Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status and G-1145 e-Notification of Application/Petition Acceptance.
- Parents can also file both applications at the same time, but they need to make sure that they still contain all the correct documentation before submitting their case.
You should always keep in mind that it takes about three or four months for USCIS to approve all the necessary steps involved for your parent(s) to be able to receive their green cards.
- As a permanent resident, you need a Social Security number as well as a valid U.S. address for your case to be accepted.
Generally, the entire procedure of filing a U.S. citizenship application for parents takes between one and three years before they can finally be sworn in as citizens of America.
- Once approved, all parents will need to do is physically appear in front of an immigration officer who will then take their oath before they can safely enjoy all the benefits that come with being a US citizen including unrestricted travel within America without needing a visa from their country of origin.
Do the Parents Have a High Chance of Getting a Green Card?
Parents of U.S. citizens can file to get a green card and will likely be able to get U.S. citizenship. Parents must file the necessary documents and appear in front of an immigration officer before becoming US citizens.
It takes one to three years for parents to receive their green cards, after which they can apply for U.S. citizenship when they meet certain requirements.
Is it Easy to Bring Parents Into the USA?
It’s not “easy” but if you have a good case, you should convincingly be able to petition for your family members. For this, you need to know if your parent(s) may qualify for any other visas at the same time as well as what their priority date is (meaning how many people are either ahead of or behind them in line for a green card).
You also need to make sure that they have a good case as well which means you may not be able to petition for your parents if there is something negative on their backgrounds such as criminal records or any involved legal proceedings.
How Can I Help My Parents Become US Citizens?
You should always keep in mind that it takes about three or four months for USCIS to approve all the necessary steps involved for your parent(s) to be able to receive their green cards.
As a permanent resident, you need a Social Security number as well as a valid U.S. address for your case to be accepted. It often takes longer than this although processing times may vary from one office to another.
For more information, you may ask or consult with immigration lawyers in Houston.
