Reunite Your Family with a Green Card for Children of LPRs
The Green Card for children of Lawful Permanent Residents (LPRs) is a crucial pathway for reuniting families in the United States. As a lawful permanent resident, you have the right to petition for your unmarried children to live with you in the U.S. Whether they are minors or adults, this family-based immigration option helps ensure that your loved ones can join you and begin building their future together. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of eligibility, the application process, and common challenges to help you navigate every step successfully.
What is a Green Card for Children of LPRs?
A Green Card for the children of LPRs falls under the Family Preference Categories, specifically the F2A and F2B categories:
- F2A: For unmarried children under 21 of lawful permanent residents.
- F2B: For unmarried children 21 or older of lawful permanent residents.
This visa grants permanent residency, allowing recipients to live, work, and study in the United States while enjoying many benefits of being a Green Card holder.
Eligibility for a Green Card for Children of LPRs
To qualify, the following criteria must be met:
- Relationship to LPR: The petitioner must be a lawful permanent resident of the United States.
- Unmarried Status: The beneficiary must remain unmarried throughout the application process.
- Age Requirement: Eligibility depends on whether the child is under or over 21, which determines whether they fall under the F2A or F2B category.
Benefits of a Green Card for Children of LPRs
- Permanent Residency: Live and work anywhere in the United States.
- Path to Citizenship: Children can apply for U.S. citizenship after maintaining Green Card status for a specific period.
- Educational Opportunities: Access to U.S. schools and universities, often at lower tuition rates.
Step-by-Step Guide to the Application Process
Step 1: File Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative)
The LPR parent files Form I-130 with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to establish the qualifying relationship.
Supporting documents include:
- Proof of the petitioner’s lawful permanent resident status (Green Card copy).
- Evidence of the parent-child relationship (birth certificate or adoption records).
- Any documents verifying the child’s current marital status.
Step 2: USCIS Petition Approval
Once the I-130 petition is approved, the case moves to the National Visa Center (NVC) for further processing. If the child is abroad, they will proceed with consular processing.
Step 3: Monitor Visa Availability
Family preference categories are subject to annual numerical limits. Check the Visa Bulletin regularly to determine when a visa becomes available for the child’s priority date.
Step 4: Apply for an Immigrant Visa or Adjustment of Status
- Consular Processing (for children abroad): File the DS-260 Immigrant Visa Application and prepare for an interview at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate.
- Adjustment of Status (for children in the U.S.): File Form I-485 to adjust to permanent resident status.
Step 5: Complete the Medical Examination
The child must undergo a medical examination with a USCIS-approved physician and submit Form I-693.
Step 6: Attend the Green Card Interview
During the interview, the immigration officer verifies the relationship and eligibility. Prepare documentation such as:
- Birth certificates.
- Proof of the petitioner’s LPR status.
- Evidence of financial support, such as Form I-864 (Affidavit of Support).
Step 7: Receive the Green Card
If the application is approved, the child will receive their Green Card and can live in the U.S. as a lawful permanent resident.
Common Challenges with the Application Process
Prolonged Wait Times
Visa availability under the family preference categories can result in delays, particularly for F2B applicants.
Proving Parent-Child Relationship
Applications require clear and verifiable evidence of the relationship, which can be challenging in cases of adoption or non-traditional family structures.
Meeting Financial Sponsorship Requirements
Petitioners must demonstrate the ability to financially support the child by submitting Form I-864 (Affidavit of Support).
How Larhdel Law Can Help You Succeed
At Larhdel Law, we understand the complexities of family-based immigration. Our services include:
- Petition Assistance: Ensuring all forms and documents are complete and accurate.
- Visa Bulletin Monitoring: Helping you track visa availability and prioritize timely action.
- Evidence Preparation: Assisting in compiling strong documentation to prove the parent-child relationship.
- Interview Coaching: Preparing you and your child for the Green Card interview process.
Contact us at 310 943 6352 to make your application process smooth and stress-free.
Real-Life Success Stories
- Case 1: Reuniting a Parent and Child After Years Apart
An LPR petitioned for their child living abroad. Despite limited documentation, we helped them compile alternative evidence and secured a successful outcome. - Case 2: Overcoming Visa Availability Delays
A petitioner faced a long wait for their child’s visa. We monitored the Visa Bulletin and prepared all documents in advance, ensuring swift action when the priority date became current. - Case 3: Navigating Financial Barriers
A parent struggled to meet the income requirements for sponsorship. By identifying a joint sponsor, we resolved the issue and completed the application.
Reuniting with your children through a Green Card is a life-changing opportunity for your family. Don’t let application challenges or delays keep you apart. Contact an experienced immigration attorney today at 310 943 6352 for expert guidance on the Green Card process. Let Larhdel Law help you bring your family together in the United States.