Family is important. That is why the U.S. has a designated immigration path for bringing in your loved ones. However, it is usually restricted to select family members. Is your stepsibling one of them?
Can you petition for your stepsibling’s green card?
A U.S. citizen seeking permanent resident status for their stepsibling can generally file a petition with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. However, before filing a petition, you should understand a few prerequisites. First, you have to be a U.S. citizen who is 21 years or above. Second, both you and your stepsibling should have been less than 18 when your parents got married. Furthermore, you will require supporting documents to prove the family relationship.
The risk of a long wait period
Since siblings fall under Fourth Preference (F4) category, it usually takes a long time for approval. In some cases, it may extend well beyond 15 years. If they are from over-subscribed countries like India or Mexico, it may become even more difficult.
Is there a way to expedite the process?
Unfortunately, it is very difficult to fast-track the process. However, your stepsibling may explore other legal pathways, such as a student visa, a visitor visa or a work permit, to spend time with you. One important thing is that once you petition for your stepsibling, getting a temporary visitor visa might become difficult for them. However, this doesn’t always have to be the case.
How can a legal guide help you here?
The U.S. immigration policies are complex and are growing stricter by the day. However, that does not necessarily prevent you from bringing your stepsibling to the United States. An experienced immigration attorney can help you in this regard.
