People who want to immigrate into the United States need to have a sponsorship. This is sometimes done through family-based sponsorship, which requires either a citizen or a legal permanent resident to sponsor the immigrant.
Individuals who are being sponsored will still have to go through an immigration process that includes normal immigration steps. Understanding the ins and outs of family immigration may help individuals hoping to utilize this option.
U.S. citizens vs. green card holders
When it comes to bringing family to the U.S., sponsorship rights depend on your immigration status. U.S. citizens have the broadest ability to sponsor relatives. They can petition for their spouses, children (whether married or unmarried), parents and siblings. In contrast, lawful permanent residents—green card holders—can only sponsor their spouses and unmarried children.
The relationship must be legally recognized, and documentation proving the connection is required. That might mean birth certificates, marriage certificates or other official records depending on the situation.
Immediate relatives vs. family preference categories
Family-based immigration falls into two groups: immediate relatives and the family preference system. Immediate relatives of U.S. citizens—like spouses, unmarried children under 21 and parents—don’t have to wait for a visa number. There’s no cap on how many visas are available in this category, so the process typically moves faster.
Other relatives fall under the preference system, which is subject to annual quotas and longer wait times. This includes siblings of U.S. citizens and the spouses or unmarried children of green card holders. Depending on the country of origin, the wait can range from a few years to well over a decade.
Working with someone familiar with immigration matters may help to make this process easier. It’s critical that everything is handled properly from the start so there aren’t any unnecessary delays.
