Family is so important and brothers and sisters have a bond that cannot be replicated. Living far away from family can be difficult and emotionally devastating. The Sibling Green Card is a legal status designated to brothers and sisters of U.S. citizens. With this type of document, citizens are able to sponsor their foreign national sibling and help them register for permanent residency in the United States. Speak to a skillful NYC family immigration attorney for more information and assistance during this process.
Who is Eligible for the Sibling Green Card?
For the citizen sibling to sponsor their brother or sister, they must be at least 21 years of age and a United States citizen. It is important to keep in mind that permanent residents cannot petition to bring their siblings to live in the U.S. permanently.
Once it is established that the sibling is eligible to be a sponsor, the following individuals may be able to obtain a green card through them.
- Biological siblings
- Step-siblings, given that the shared parents are currently married and were married before the sponsoring sibling turned 18 years old
- Adopted siblings, given that they were adopted before either sibling turned 16 years old
- The sibling’s spouse and unmarried children under the age of 21
If any of the above applies to you you may be able to obtain a sibling green card.
What is the Process of Obtaining a Green Card for My Sibling?
The process of applying for and obtaining a green card for a sibling can be long and complex. Consider the following steps required.
- Complete Form I-130, the Petition for Alien Relative, and submit it online or by mail.
- Complete Form I-485, the Application to Register Permanent Resident.
- Complete Form I-864 the Affidavit of Support.
- If the foreign sibling is in the U.S. they must apply for an adjustment of status. If they are abroad they will go through consular processing in their home country.
- Submit the following documents:
- A copy of both siblings’ birth certificates
- Evidence that the sponsoring sibling is a U.S. citizen, such as a passport, naturalization certificate, etc.
- Proof of any name changes if the siblings do not share a surname
- For adopted siblings, a copy of the adoption decree
- For step-siblings, proof that any previous marriages of either parent were terminated and a copy of the marriage certificate
- If the foreign sibling is married or has children, a copy of the marriage certificate and birth certificates of any children
Contact an Immigration Lawyer
At Cheryl R. David Immigration & Nationality Law, we understand the importance of family. If you have a sibling that you wish to help bring to the United States and obtain a green card, it is important that you understand the legal process and documentation required. Speak with an experienced immigration lawyer today to discuss your situation and acquire skilled representation.
