Immigration to the United States can be a complex and intimidating process for many people. However, there are several options available to those who wish to legally reside in the United States. So, one of those options is the kinship-based Green Card. However, in this article, we will discuss the kinship-based immigration process, who is eligible for the kinship Green Card, and how long it takes.
Kinship-based immigration
Kinship-based immigration is a process by which a foreign national can obtain a Green Card through a close relative who is already a legal resident of the United States. Therefore, this is possible thanks to the United States’ family immigration policy, which allows U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents to sponsor certain family members for obtaining a Green Card.
Kinship-Based Green Card
The kinship-based Green Card is one of the most common forms of immigration to the United States. This process is generally faster than other immigration options, such as employment-based immigration, and does not require a job in the United States. However, there are certain requirements that must be met in order for a foreign national to be able to obtain a Green Card by kinship.
Who is eligible for a Green Card by kinship?
There are several categories of kinship that qualify a foreign national to obtain a Green Card based on kinship. These include:
- Spouse of a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident
- Unmarried child of a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident under 21 years of age
- Married child of a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident
- Adult child of a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident
- Brother of a U.S. citizen
How long does it take to get a Green Card based on kinship?
The time it takes to obtain a kinship-based Green Card varies depending on the kinship category. For example, the spouse of a U.S. citizen generally receives a green card more quickly than a sibling of a U.S. citizen. The average processing time for the kinship-based Green Card is currently 12-15 months.
Family-Based Green Card – Information and Requirements
Requirements include sponsorship of the relative who is already a legal resident of the United States. Therefore, the sponsor must complete Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, and submit documentation proving the relationship. The foreign national seeking a Green Card must also file a Form I-485, Application for Registration of Permanent Residence or Adjustment of Status, and provide additional documentation such as a medical exam and background check.
In addition, it is important to remember that the sponsor must meet certain financial requirements to prove that they have the ability to support the foreign relative seeking a green card. Thus, these financial requirements vary depending on the kinship category.
Immigration by kinship or marriage
In addition to kinship-based immigration, marriage to a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident is also another immigration option to the United States. However, the requirements and process for the marriage-based Green Card are different from the kinship-based Green Card.
People frequently seek kinship-based immigration as one of the most popular options for obtaining a Green Card in the United States. However, it is important to remember that the process can be complex and time-consuming, requiring the assistance of an experienced immigration professional.
The Role of Visto Immigration
Visto Immigration, a company specialized in immigration consulting and advisory, is ready to help you make your dream of residing legally in the United States a reality. Our team is made up of experienced immigration professionals with more than 20 years of experience in the field. Contact us now and find out all the information and guidance you need to explore your immigration possibilities.
Visto Immigration - The information provided on this blog is for general informational purposes only and should not be interpreted as legal advice or client solicitation. If you require legal advice for your specific case, you should seek the counsel of your own lawyer or legal counsel.
