At Wogwu Law, we're committed to helping families across the globe in their journey toward a life in the United States. As immigration lawyers with a global reach, we understand the nuances of obtaining a Green Card for children. This process can be complex, but with our guidance, we aim to make it as smooth and understandable as possible.

Why Choose the Green Card for Your Children?

The Green Card, or Permanent Resident Card, is a crucial step towards stability and opportunity for your children in the U.S. It grants them the legal right to live, study, and work indefinitely. This path opens doors for their future and provides peace of mind for the whole family, knowing that your children have a secure place in the U.S.

Eligibility Criteria for Child Green Card Applicants

Understanding the eligibility criteria for obtaining a Green Card for children is crucial to the U.S. immigration process. At Wogwu Law, we pay close attention to these criteria to ensure our clients are well-informed and prepared. Here's a detailed breakdown of these eligibility requirements:

1. Age and Marital Status: The child must be unmarried and under 21. This is a strict requirement. The U.S. immigration law considers anyone under the age of 21 to be a child. It's essential to start the process before the child reaches this age to stay eligible.
2. Relationship to the U.S. Sponsor: The child must be either a biological child, an adopted child, or a step-child of a U.S. citizen or permanent resident.
3. Parent’s Status: The U.S. sponsor, whether a citizen or a permanent resident (Green Card holder), must prove their legal status in the United States. The sponsoring parent must also demonstrate the ability to support the child financially. This is done through the Affidavit of Support, indicating that the child will not become a public charge.
4. Legal and Physical Custody: Proving legal and physical custody is critical for adopted or step-children. This includes court documents, adoption papers, or custody agreements. The aim is to establish that the sponsoring parent has had a parental role in the child’s life.
5. Child’s Immigration History: The child’s immigration history will be reviewed. If the child has been living in the U.S., their current immigration status, manner of entry, and any prior interactions with U.S. immigration authorities will be considered. Any previous violations could impact eligibility.
6. Health and Character Considerations: The child must pass a medical examination by an approved physician. This examination is not just a formality but a comprehensive check to ensure that the child has no communicable diseases or health conditions that might need extensive medical treatment or pose a public health concern.

Every family's situation is unique, and we at Wogwu Law are here to assess your specific circumstances and guide you through the eligibility process.