Many people living in the United States have family members in other countries. Those who immigrate may have left loved ones behind. Sometimes, people who are natural-born citizens of the United States have immediate family members living in other countries. They may want to reconnect by helping their loved ones legally enter and live in the United States.
Family-based immigration programs provide an opportunity for those in the United States to connect with their loved ones living elsewhere. When people have parents living in another country, they may want to help their parents enjoy the comfort and stability of the United States during their retirement years or watch their grandchildren grow up while living nearby.
When can people help their parents legally enter the United States?
Only citizens can get their parents green cards
There are many different immigration programs for the immediate family members of immigrants and citizens. A professional who obtains a work visa can bring their spouse and unmarried minor children into the country. Those with green cards can also help certain immediate family members enter the United States.
However, parents do not qualify for immigration opportunities when their children have visas or green cards. The only option for helping parents obtain green cards of their own requires citizenship. Some people with parents living abroad are already citizens. Their parents may have had an international relationship, for example.
Other times, an immigrant living in the United States might want to consider naturalization. By becoming a United States citizen, they can help their parents legally enter the United States as permanent residents. Citizens can also help their siblings or their married adult children enter the United States.
Their family members are still subject to background checks and the paperwork requirements imposed by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Thankfully, they may qualify for a green card more easily because of their relationship with a citizen. They could also benefit from having a close loved one already established in the country before they travel here.
Expanded family immigration opportunities are one of the many benefits of naturalization. Those hoping to reconnect with their families may need to learn more about family-based immigration programs.