Want to Bring Your Children to the U.S.? Steps to Secure a Green Card for Them
Bringing children to the U.S. to live permanently is a goal for many families.
Attorney Wogwu helps parents understand the process and ensure everything is handled correctly based on the child’s age, marital status, and location. With the right guidance, families can move forward with confidence.
Who Can Apply?
Unmarried children under 21 of U.S. citizens can apply for a green card right away since they are classified as immediate relatives and do not have to wait for a visa number. Married children or those over 21 fall under the family preference category, meaning they must wait for a visa to become available before applying. Green card holders can also petition for their unmarried children, but they must wait for a visa number under the F2A category before moving forward with the process.
How to Apply
If the child is already in the U.S., the process begins with establishing the parent-child relationship and applying for lawful permanent residency. If the child is unmarried and under 21, additional steps may be taken to adjust their status. USCIS may require biometrics and an interview before final approval.
For children outside the U.S., the process involves petitioning for the child’s immigration status, followed by consular processing. This includes working with the National Visa Center, attending a visa interview at the U.S. consulate in their home country, and completing a medical exam before approval.
How Long Does the Process Take?
Processing times depend on several factors, including USCIS workload, consular backlogs, and individual case details. Some cases move faster, while others may take longer due to additional reviews, background checks, or missing documents. Delays can occur at different stages, so parents should be prepared for varying timelines and ensure all paperwork is properly completed to help the process stay on track.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even small errors can slow down the process. Some of the most common mistakes include:
- Submitting incomplete forms or incorrect information
- Forgetting required documents, such as birth certificates or proof of citizenship
- Filing under the wrong category or misunderstanding eligibility rules
- Missing deadlines or failing to respond to USCIS requests on time
- Overlooking financial requirements when submitting Form I-864 (Affidavit of Support)
Attorney Wogwu helps families avoid these pitfalls by carefully reviewing each step of the process and ensuring all paperwork is correct before submission.
Start the Process Today
Bringing your children to the U.S. is possible with the right legal guidance. Call us at 210-972-4480 to schedule a consultation. Get the support you need to move forward with confidence.