Thinking about applying for a green card and want your children to join you? You’re in luck! This guide will show you how to include your dependent children on your Form I-485 application for adjusting your status to permanent resident.
Who Can Be Included?
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Under 21 and Single: Your unmarried children under the age of 21 can apply for their green card alongside you. They’ll be considered “derivative applicants” because their application depends on yours (the “principal applicant”).
Important Note: Just because you’re applying doesn’t mean your kids are automatically included. Each eligible child needs to file their own separate Form I-485.
How to File for Your Children
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Separate Applications for Each Child: Grab a separate Form I-485 for each of your eligible children.
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Gather Proof of Your Relationship: This is key! You’ll need documents like birth certificates that clearly show the relationship between you and each child. Don’t forget to include a copy of your I-485 receipt notice (or approval notice) to show their application is linked to yours. There might be other documents required depending on your situation.
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Filing Fees: Each child’s application usually comes with a standard filing fee. There might be fee waivers or reductions available in some cases, so be sure to check.
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Fingerprints and Photos: Your children might be required to attend a biometrics appointment to get their fingerprints, photographs, and signatures taken.
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Interview Time: There’s a chance you and your children might be called for an interview at a local USCIS office. Be prepared to answer questions about your situation and provide any additional documents requested.
Steps to Take
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Get Those Forms Ready: Fill out a separate Form I-485 for each child. Don’t forget to collect all the necessary documents proving your relationship with each child.
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Send it In!: File each child’s application with the appropriate filing fee and all the supporting documents to the designated USCIS address.
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Biometrics Appointment: If required, each child should attend their biometrics appointment.
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Interview Prep: Be ready for a possible interview! Bring any additional documents requested by USCIS.
Remember These Key Points
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The Age Limit: Only unmarried children under 21 qualify as dependents on your application.
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Separate Applications! Each child needs their own Form I-485.
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Proof is Key: Solid documentation is crucial to prove your relationship with each child.
Following these steps will help ensure your dependent children are included in your green card journey. Consulting with an immigration attorney can provide more specific guidance tailored to your situation. They can answer any questions you have and give you peace of mind throughout the process.
