Our team is committed to assisting individuals like you in achieving your US immigration goals. In this blog post, we'll explore how you can sponsor siblings to immigrate to the United States. We’ll also discuss the US citizen sibling sponsorship essential factors to consider during this process, including the I-130 sibling green card processing time.
Sponsorship Privilege for US Citizens
As a US citizen, you have a unique advantage that permanent residents don't have – you can sponsor siblings. This is a valid reason if you're currently a permanent resident who’s contemplating applying to become a US citizen.
You can only file the petition to sponsor brothers and sisters with an immigration lawyer once you’re a US citizen and 21 years or older.
Don’t Miss the Chance
To sponsor siblings is a significant opportunity. However, experienced immigration lawyers will tell you to manage your expectations regarding consular processing times. The waiting period for a sponsor siblings’ green cards can be quite long, ranging from 10 to 15 years or even more.
A lawyer will inform you that approvals take longer when you sponsor siblings’ immigration from certain countries. Countries like Mexico, the Philippines, China, and India due to specific regulations. However, despite the long timeline, don't be disheartened and miss this chance to get immigration law services.
Pursue the Sibling Visa (Retirement Visa)
Due to the extended I-130 sibling green card processing time, the sibling visa is sometimes humorously called by immigration law services the "Retirement Visa."
Even though the wait might seem long, think about the future opportunities of bringing siblings to the US. Act now to sponsor your siblings and file their visa petition with the assistance of US immigration lawyers. This gives them the chance to chase their American dreams later on.
Best Guide: How to Bring Your Sibling to the United States
Bringing your sibling to the United States involves important steps, eligibility requirements, and documents. Here's a simplified guide covering the requirements, a step-by-step process from filing the I-130 petition to obtaining the F4 Sibling Visa, and the necessary documents.
F4 Visa Application Sibling Requirements Simplified
Not all siblings are eligible to sponsor an individual for a green card. To meet F4 visa category requirements, the sponsoring US citizen must:
- Be a US citizen.
- Be at least 21 years old.
- Have siblings residing in a foreign country.
- Provide supporting evidence of the sibling relationship, such as birth certificates or adoption documents.
- Live in the US with a valid United States address.
Step-By-Step Guide: How to Bring Your Brother or Sister to the US
By following this concise step-by-step guide, you can streamline the journey from the I-130 petition to obtaining the F4 sibling visa, bringing your siblings closer to their American dreams.
Step 1: File the I-130 Petition For Family-based Immigrant Visa For Siblings
- Begin the process by submitting the I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, as a US citizen.
- Wait for the petition's approval, which may take some time.
Step 2: Priority Date and Waiting Period
- Once the I-130 is approved, the priority date is established.
- Understand that there might be a waiting period due to the annual numerical limits on Family Preference visas.
Step 3: Filing the F4 Visa Application
- When the priority date becomes current, file the F4 visa application with the National Visa Center (NVC).
- If you're in the US, consider applying for an adjustment of status during this stage.
Step 4: Consular Interview
- If applying from abroad, attend a consular interview at a US embassy or consulate.
- For adjustment of status applicants, the interview takes place in the US.
Step 5: Visa Approval and Entry to the US
- Upon approval, your sibling will receive the F4 visa.
- If applying from the home country, your sibling can enter the US and become a lawful permanent resident.
Step 6: Compliance with Immigration Regulations
- Understand the importance of adhering to immigration regulations during the visa petition process.
- Note that your siblings cannot legally be living in the United States during this period and must wait in their home country.
Step 7: Consultation with Immigration Lawyer for Sibling Sponsorship
- Seek guidance from an experienced immigration lawyer throughout the process.
- A Boston immigration lawyer near you can provide invaluable assistance in navigating complex steps and ensuring compliance with immigration regulations.
Step 8: Regular Updates and Communication
- Stay informed about any updates or changes in immigration laws.
- Maintain open communication with your immigration lawyer to address any concerns or changes in the process.
Required Supporting Documentation for the F4 Visa Process for Siblings
To apply for an F4 visa, you must submit specific documents to show that you qualify. If you're a US citizen or permanent resident sponsoring the application, you'll have to provide:
1. Proof of Relationship:
This includes documents like birth certificates or marriage certificates that prove your family connection.
2. Form I-864 Affidavit of Support: Sibling Visa Sponsorship
This is a required financial support document that shows you have the financial means to support the immigrant.
3. Medical Examination:
The person immigrating needs to undergo a medical check-up by an approved doctor.
4. Certified Birth and Marriage Certificates:
Provide official copies of these documents to confirm identity and marital status.
5. Sponsor's Tax Returns:
Give certified copies of your recent tax returns as evidence of your financial stability.
6. Payment of Fees:
You'll need to pay the required fees set by the US government.
Submitting these documents is essential to demonstrate eligibility and support the F4 visa application.
Get Professional Help for Your Sibling's Green Card Journey
It's important to note that this process may not always be straightforward. Seeking guidance from a lawyer who specializes in US immigration can provide invaluable lawyer assistance in navigating these steps.
Our team has the lawyer assistance to support you throughout the entire journey. Our firm is always up to date with the ever-changing laws. We’ll ensure that your I-130 sibling’s green card process follows the immigration regulations in the US.
Sponsor Siblings: Complying With Immigration Regulations
During the sibling visa petition process, it's vital to understand that your siblings cannot legally stay in the US. Immigration regulations require them to wait in their home country during this period. While there are various temporary visa options to explore, they must maintain legal status.
Consulting an immigration attorney near you in Los Angeles or Boston will help you avoid issues with the application.
Reach Out to and Get Law Services
You may wonder if your siblings will still want to move to the US after such a long wait. Always keep in mind circumstances can change, and the future remains uncertain.
By submitting the sibling green card sponsorship paperwork now with Goldstein Immigration Lawyers in Los Angeles or Boston, you give your siblings the right and flexibility to make that decision when the time comes.
If you have any questions or need guidance on the I-130 sibling green card application process, please feel free to tell us about your case. Our team is here to assist you in achieving all your long-term goals. Together, we can navigate the path to a successful green card application for your siblings!
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