When foreign nationals enter the United States, they may choose to stay forever. While visas do expire, they are often eligible for renewal at least once. Those who can pass background checks and who follow the right procedures can become permanent residents.
Green card holders may legally remain in the United States for the rest of their lives. Provided that they renew their paperwork every 10 years, they can indefinitely maintain lawful status in the United States. They may want to share their good fortune with their loved ones.
If a green card holder has children living abroad, can they help them legally enter the United States?
Family preference visas can help children
Permanent residents and citizens can sponsor their close family members for family preference visas. There are different preference categories based on the sponsor’s immigration status and the relationship they have with the sponsored person.
For those with green cards, there are two preference categories for their children. Unmarried, minor children are in the slightly higher preference category. Permanent residents can also sponsor their adult children who have not yet married for a family preference visa.
Unfortunately, if their children have families of their own, green card holders cannot help their adult children secure visas and green cards. Only citizens typically have the option of sponsoring their married adult children for immigration purposes. Citizens can also sponsor their parents and siblings.
Learning more about immigration rules can help people evaluate opportunities for their loved ones. Those seeking family-based visas often need assistance with paperwork, making legal guidance generally necessary.