The Green Card, officially known as the Permanent Residence Card, is a key document for anyone seeking to live permanently in the United States. Green Cards are one of the most common avenues to become a U.S. citizen, and one of the easiest ways to obtain it is through the process known as
a Kinship-Based Green Card
. In this article, we’ll explore the different aspects of this path, from the basic requirements to the application process.
What are Family-Sponsored Green Cards?
Kinship-based Green Cards are a modality that allows immigration to the U.S. based on family relationships with U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents. This is a significant way to reunite families and make it possible for close relatives to stay together in the United States.
Requirements to Apply for a Kinship Green Card
To apply for a kinship green card, it is essential to meet certain requirements. In general, the applicant must be directly related to a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident. Immediate relatives, such as spouse and unmarried children under the age of 21, are considered priority.
Degrees Of Kinship That Are Requirements For This Green Card
1. Immediate Parentage: The applicant must be an immediate relative of a U.S. citizen, such as a spouse, unmarried child under the age of 21, or parent of a U.S. citizen over the age of 21.
2. Sponsoring Lawful Permanent Resident: If the sponsor is a lawful permanent resident, eligible kinship includes spouse and unmarried children, regardless of age.
3. Petition and Form: The U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident must file a petition with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) using the appropriate form.
Application Process
The process to apply for a Green Card by Kinship involves several crucial steps. Here are the main phases of the process:
1. Citizen’s or Permanent Resident’s Petition
The first step is the submission of the petition by the U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident. This is done by filling out the appropriate form, indicating the type of relationship, and providing all the necessary information.
2. Approval of the Petition
Once received, USCIS reviews the petition and, if approved, forwards the case for further processing. Approval is a critical step, as it indicates recognition of the family bond and eligibility to proceed with the application.
3. Green Card Application
After the petition is approved, the eligible relative can begin the Green Card application. This involves filling out specific forms, providing supporting documents, and paying applicable fees.
4. Processing by USCIS
USCIS reviews the application, conducts background checks, and schedules interviews if necessary. The process can take some time, and active collaboration with USCIS is crucial to ensure a smooth process.
5. Issuance of the Green Card
Upon successful completion of the process, the applicant will receive their Green Card, granting them permanent resident status in the United States. This opens the door to a new life in the country.
Eligible Relationship Types
There are different types of relationships that are eligible to apply for a Kinship Green Card. Accepted family ties include spouses, unmarried children under the age of 21, parents of U.S. citizens over the age of 21, among others.
Family Preference
The process of obtaining a Green Card by kinship follows a logic of family preference. Immediate relatives, such as spouses and minor children, have priority over other family members. This preference aims to reunite families as quickly as possible.
Annual Limits and Membership Categories
It is important to note that there are annual limits on the number of Kinship Green Cards available. In addition, different categories of kinship are established, each with its own boundaries and criteria.
The Kinship Green Card is a valuable route for those who wish to immigrate to the United States while maintaining family ties. Understanding the requirements, application process, and types of eligible relationships is essential to successfully navigating this path. By following the proper procedures and collaborating with immigration authorities, individuals can fulfill their dream of building a new life in the United States, strengthening family bonds in the process.
