In the United States, the process of obtaining permanent residency through a green card generally involves securing a sponsor. This sponsor is typically a family member or employer. If you are enduring the immigration process alone, however, you may ask the question: “Can I sponsor myself for a green card?” Individuals may be able to sponsor themselves for permanent resident status depending on the details of the situation. Understanding your legal requirements and options is crucial in ensuring that you can obtain legal permanent residency. For more information and skilled legal assistance, contact a knowledgeable green card immigration lawyer in NYC today.
What is a Sponsor in Immigration?
An immigration sponsor is a United States citizen or lawful permanent resident who agrees to financially support an immigrant while they are in the U.S. on a visa or in the process of applying for citizenship. Sponsors are important because they act as a legal guarantee that the immigrant will not become a public charge, meaning that they will not rely on government assistance for financial support.
Can I Sponsor Myself for a Green Card?
Yes, it is possible to sponsor yourself for a green card, though there are only a few ways to do so. Because most immigrants are required to obtain sponsorship from a relative or employer, only certain individuals will qualify for self-sponsorship. Below are some examples of options that allow you to act as your own sponsor.
- EB-1A: Employment based on extraordinary ability allows you to petition for yourself without first securing a job offer or sponsorship from an employer. Individuals with proven extraordinary abilities in sciences, the arts, education, business, or athletics can sponsor themselves if they have demonstrated national or international recognition.
- EB-2: If you meet the National Interest Waiver (NIW) criteria, you can apply for a green card while acting as your own sponsor. This is another employment opportunity and you may be eligible if you can prove that your work is of national importance and benefits the United States’ national interest.
- EB-5: You can also sponsor yourself through the Immigrant Investor Program. Foreign investors who invest a substantial amount in endeavors that would create jobs for U.S. workers may be able to sponsor themselves.
- VAWA: The VAWA (Violence Against Women Act) is a law for victims who have suffered abuse at the hands of a U.S. citizen or permanent resident. Despite the name, the VAWA applies to all immigrants who have been abused, regardless of gender. If you suffered physical violence, extreme cruelty, or another type of abuse and therefore cannot or will not use your offender as a sponsor, you can self-petition for permanent residency. Rather than having to rely on an abusive relative, you can act as your own sponsor.
While sponsorship is an important step in the green card process, it is important that you understand your options for securing permanent residency without the help of a family member or employer. Reach out to a skilled immigration attorney for more information today.
