If you’re a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident (green card holder), you may be able to sponsor a family member to immigrate to the United States. This process is called family-based immigration, and it’s the most common path to a green card.
Who Can Sponsor?
- U.S. Citizens can sponsor:
- Spouse
- Children (any age, married or unmarried)
- Parents (if citizen is 21 or older)
- Siblings (if citizen is 21 or older)
- Green Card Holders can sponsor:
- Spouse
- Unmarried children
Steps to Sponsor:
- File Form I-130 – Petition for Alien Relative
- Prove the family relationship
- Wait for visa availability (priority date system)
- Beneficiary applies for green card when visa is current
Wait Times:
- Immediate relatives (spouses, minor children, parents of U.S. citizens): No wait time
- Others may wait years, depending on the country and category
Sponsorship Responsibilities:
- Must sign an Affidavit of Support (Form I-864)
- Must show income at or above 125% of the federal poverty line
- Responsible for supporting the immigrant financially
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