Introduction:
If you are a US citizen and wish to reunite with your sibling living outside the United States, you may be considering the option of securing a US Green Card for a sibling. A US Green Card offers the privilege of becoming a permanent resident in the US, enabling them to live and work in the country indefinitely. Moreover, it grants access to numerous benefits and rights, including education, healthcare, and social security. However, obtaining a Green Card for your brother or sister is a complex and time-consuming process that requires thorough understanding and meticulous adherence.
There’s an enchanting beauty in reuniting with family members who reside beyond the borders of the United States. The excitement is palpable as time and distance melt away, making every moment together a precious and cherished experience. Across diverse cultures and landscapes, the shared history and shared blood bind siblings together in a tapestry of emotions and stories. Exploring unfamiliar surroundings and embracing the uniqueness of their lives outside the USA adds a layer of wonder to the reunion, making it a truly special occasion. The joy of meeting family abroad is a testament to the unbreakable bond that transcends continents, reminding us of the beauty of family ties that span the globe.
The application procedure for a US green card for a sibling involves a series of steps, specific requirements, and waiting periods that demand your careful attention. In this article, we will delve into the comprehensive process of applying for a US Green Card for your sibling. We will cover crucial aspects such as the appropriate time to initiate the application, the essential components of the application, and the underlying reasons for pursuing this avenue.
Starting with the Application Process for US Green Card for a Sibling:
To apply for a US green card for your brother or sister, you need to go through two main stages: the petition stage and the application stage.
- The petition stage: This is where you, as the US citizen sponsor, file a petition with the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to request that your sibling be classified as your relative eligible for immigration. To do this, you need to complete and submit the required forms along with the required documents and fees. Such documents include but are not limited to proof of your US citizenship.
- The application stage: This is the second stage in the process of application for US green card for a sibling, where the person applies for an immigrant visa at a US embassy or consulate in their country of residence or adjusts their status to permanent resident if they are already in the US on a valid visa. To do this, they need to wait until a visa number becomes available for them, which depends on their priority date and their preference category (the fourth preference category for siblings of US citizens). Once a visa number is available, they will receive a notification from the National Visa Center (NVC) to pay the required fees and submit the required documents.
On submission of the required fees and documents, an interview shall be scheduled at the US embassy or consulate. After successfully qualifying for the interview, an immigrant visa shall be issued that allows them to enter the USA. Alternatively, if the person is already in the US on a valid visa, they can apply to adjust their status to permanent resident along with the required documents and fees.
The Ideal Time to Apply for US Green Card for a Sibling:
The best time to apply for a US green card for a sibling is as soon as possible. This is because there is a long waiting time for this particular category to get a green card. According to the latest reports and updates, the current priority date for siblings of US citizens from most countries is March 2007 which means that only those who filed their forms before this date are eligible to apply for an immigrant visa or adjust their status.
For some countries, such as Mexico and the Philippines, the priority date is even earlier. Therefore, if you want to help your kinfolk get a green card sooner rather than later, you should file your Form I-130 as soon as you can.
Things to Keep in Mind Before Applying for a Sibling Green Card:
To apply for a US green card for your sibling, you need to apply for both the petition stage and the application stage. You cannot skip or combine any of these stages. You also need to make sure that the person concerned meets all the eligibility and admissibility requirements for each stage. The eligibility requirements include:
- You must be a US citizen and at least 21 years old.
- Your sibling must be your biological, adopted, or half-sibling, and you must share at least one parent in common.
- Such a person must not be married to another US citizen or permanent resident, as this would make them eligible for a different preference category.
The admissibility requirements include:
- Your sibling must not have any criminal, health, security, or immigration violations that would make them inadmissible to the US.
- You must be able to prove that you have enough income or assets to support him/her in the US or have a joint sponsor who can do so.
- The person in question must pass the medical examination and the visa interview, and clear all the security checks.
Why Should You Petition for Your Sibling:
There are many reasons why you may want to apply for a US green card for a sibling. Some of the most common ones are:
- To reunite with them and enjoy family life in the US.
- To help them pursue their education, career, or personal goals in the US.
- To provide them with better opportunities, security, and quality of life in the US.
- To share your culture, values, and traditions with them in the US.
Applying for a US green card for a sibling can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience for both you and your sibling. However, it can also be a challenging and lengthy process that requires patience, perseverance, and preparation. By following the steps and tips outlined in this blog, you can make the process easier and smoother.
The entire process can be overwhelming. To cater to such a profusely complex procedure seeking the guidance and support of a legal expert is indispensable. The waiting period for a US green card for a sibling can be lengthy, as the availability of visas is subject to annual limits. Despite the challenges, many individuals pursue the goal of securing a US green card for a sibling to reunite their families and create lasting bonds. Guiding through this intricate tapestry of immigration, Gehis Immigration and International Legal Services stand as your unwavering support, illuminating your path with expertise and utmost care. With open hearts and knowledgeable minds, Gehis Immigration and International Legal Services embrace the opportunity to dissolve your immigration complexities, radiating happiness through every step of your journey.
