Imagine being able to reunite with your parents in the United States, the country where you've made your home. It's a dream for many immigrants, but the process of bringing parents to the US can be complex and daunting.

In this personal guide, I'll walk you through the steps involved in bringing your parents to the US, from determining your eligibility to welcoming them to your new home.

Step 1: Determine Your Eligibility

The first step is to make sure that you meet the eligibility requirements to sponsor your parents for a green card. To be eligible, you must be a US citizen and at least 21 years old. Unfortunately, green card holders are not eligible to sponsor their parents.This blog is intended for parents that are outside the United States.

Step 2: File an I-130 Petition

Once you've determined your eligibility, you can start the application process by filing an I-130 Petition for Alien Relative with USCIS. This form establishes the qualifying relationship between you and your parents. Be sure to include all required supporting documents, such as birth certificates, proof of US citizenship, and proof of the parent-child relationship. This is a critical step and if you and your parents have lived apart when you were under 18 this is more complicated then.

Step 3: Pay the Filing Fee

USCIS charges a filing fee for the I-130 petition. You can pay the fee online or by mail. Be sure to check the USCIS website for the most current fee amount and payment instructions.

Step 4: Wait for USCIS Processing

USCIS will review your petition and supporting documents. This process can take several months, so be patient. USCIS may request additional evidence or clarification during this stage. You can look up the Visa Bulletin to review the schedule on the time it will take to get approved.

Step 5: Approval and Transfer to the National Visa Center (NVC)

If USCIS approves your petition, it will be transferred to the National Visa Center (NVC). The NVC will process your case and notify you of any additional steps you need to take.

Step 6: Submit Visa Application

Once your case is at the NVC, you'll need to submit a visa application (Form DS-260) for each of your parents. You will also need to provide financial support information, proof of your US domicile, and pay the Affidavit of Support fee. This is a step that can be repeated if its toward the end of of the year and make sure you get the guidance on these forms.

Step 7: Attend a Medical Examination and Visa Interview

Your parents will need to undergo a medical examination by an approved panel physician and attend a visa interview at the US embassy or consulate in their home country. This interview is an opportunity for USCIS to assess your parents' eligibility for a green card.

Step 8: Visa Issuance and Travel

If your parents' visa interview is successful, they will be issued immigrant visas. They must enter the US within the visa validity period, usually six months from the medical examination.

Step 9: Pay the USCIS Immigrant Fee

Before your parents travel to the US, you must pay the USCIS immigrant fee online to cover the cost of their Green Cards. The card is issued within a month of payment.

Step 10: Welcome Your Parents to the United States

Once your parents arrive in the US, they will be inspected by US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers. After successful entry, they will receive their Green Cards by mail, officially granting them permanent resident status.

Bringing your parents to the US is a journey, but it's one that's filled with joy and promise. By following these steps, you can successfully reunite with your loved ones and start a new chapter in your lives together. Of course our firm can assist in any part of this process.

Bringing Your Parents to the United States: A Personal Guide