How to Bring Your Family to the US: A Complete Guide
/Bringing family members to the United States is one of the most meaningful decisions an immigrant can make—but it is also one of the most complex. The family-based immigration system involves multiple forms, strict eligibility rules, financial requirements, and long waiting periods that often create confusion and anxiety.
Whether someone is a U.S. Citizen or a Lawful Permanent Resident, understanding how to bring family to the US requires clarity, planning, and careful execution. This guide explains the process step by step, helping families understand their options, responsibilities, and potential challenges—while avoiding common mistakes that can lead to delays or denials.
Understanding Your Eligibility to Sponsor a Family Member
Before filing any paperwork, the most important factor is the sponsor’s immigration status. U.S. immigration law treats U.S. citizens and green card holders differently when it comes to sponsoring relatives.
Understanding these differences early helps avoid unrealistic expectations and unnecessary delays.
For Relatives Already in the U.S.: Adjustment of Status
A U.S. Citizen enjoys the broadest sponsorship rights under U.S. immigration law. Citizens can sponsor:
Spouses
Unmarried children under 21
Unmarried adult children
Married children of any age
Parents (if the sponsor is over 21)
Brothers and sisters
Immediate relatives of U.S. citizens—spouses, parents, and unmarried children under 21—benefit from no annual visa limits, meaning they are not subject to long quota backlogs. This makes the process significantly faster compared to other categories.
Many families exploring Green Cards through family sponsorship begin their journey here.
Sponsoring Family as a Green Card Holder (Lawful Permanent Resident)
A Lawful Permanent Resident (green card holder) has more limited options. They may sponsor:
A spouse
Unmarried children (under or over 21)
Unlike U.S. citizens, green card holders cannot sponsor parents, married children, or siblings. Additionally, all relatives sponsored by permanent residents fall under family preference categories, which are subject to annual limits and waiting periods.
For many families, reviewing citizenship options can be a strategic long-term step to expand sponsorship possibilities.
The Core of the Process: Filing Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative
At the heart of sponsoring a relative is Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative). This petition establishes the qualifying family relationship and formally starts the immigration process.
What is the Purpose of Form I-130?
The purpose of Form I-130 is to prove to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services that:
A valid family relationship exists, and
The sponsor is eligible to petition for the relative
Approval of the I-130 does not grant a visa or a Green Card (Permanent Resident Card) by itself—it simply secures the family relationship under U.S. immigration law.
Essential Documents Needed to File Your Petition
A well-prepared I-130 petition process typically includes:
Proof of U.S. citizenship or permanent residence
Birth certificates or marriage certificates
Evidence of relationship (photos, correspondence, joint records)
Government-issued IDs
Filing fees and completed forms
Incomplete or poorly documented petitions often lead to delays or Requests for Evidence (RFEs).
Step-by-Step: How to File the I-130 Petition
Determine eligibility and family category
Gather all supporting documentation
Complete Form I-130 accurately
File with USCIS (online or by mail)
Track USCIS processing times
Once approved, the case moves forward—but the next steps depend entirely on where the family member is located.
What Happens After the I-130 Petition is Approved?
Approval of the petition opens one of two possible paths: Consular Processing or Adjustment of Status.
For Relatives Abroad: Consular Processing with the NVC
The Consular Processing stage includes:
Visa fee payments
Submission of civil documents
The consular interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate
After approval, the family member enters the U.S. as a permanent resident.
For Relatives Already in the U.S.: Adjustment of Status
Relatives already lawfully present in the U.S. may qualify for Adjustment of Status, allowing them to apply for a green card without leaving the country.
Adjustment of status requirements depend on lawful entry, visa availability, and maintaining legal status. This process can be faster but carries its own risks if not handled carefully.
Persons wanting to pursue adjustment of status after an I – 130 is approved should seek the assistance of an experienced immigration lawyer before they proceed. The requirements for adjustment of status are very strict, and making a mistake can result in the applicant being deported from the United States.
Navigating Visa Categories and Wait Times
Visa availability is one of the most confusing aspects of family-based immigration.
Immediate Relatives of U.S. Citizens (No Quota Wait)
Immediate relatives—spouses, parents, and minor children—are exempt from annual caps. Once the I-130 is approved, the process moves directly forward.
This immediate relative visa category is the fastest route for most families.
The Family Preference Categories (F1, F2A, F2B, F3, F4)
Other relatives fall under family preference categories, each with annual limits and waitlists:
F1: Unmarried adult children of U.S. citizens
F2A/F2B: Spouses and children of permanent residents
F3: Married children of U.S. citizens
F4: Siblings of U.S. citizens
Waiting periods can range from a few years to decades, depending on the category and country of origin.
How to Read the Visa Bulletin to Check Your Place in Line
The Visa Bulletin is published monthly and shows which priority dates are current.
Understanding how to read it is critical to tracking progress and planning next steps. Many families consult visa bulletin guidance to avoid misinterpretation.
Proving Financial Support: The I-864 Affidavit of Support
Financial sponsorship is mandatory in most family cases.
What is the Affidavit of Support?
The Affidavit of Support (Form I-864) is a legally binding contract where the sponsor agrees to financially support the immigrant.
Meeting the Income Requirements Based on Poverty Guidelines
Sponsors must meet minimum income thresholds based on household size and federal poverty guidelines. Failure to meet these numbers is a common reason for delays.
Options If You Don't Meet the Income Threshold (Joint Sponsors)
If income is insufficient, a joint sponsor may step in. Joint sponsorship is allowed but must meet strict legal criteria.
Reviewing an affidavit of support help is often advisable in these situations.
Common Challenges and Why You Might Need an Immigration Lawyer
Even straightforward cases can face obstacles.
Dealing with Requests for Evidence (RFEs) or Delays
RFEs from USCIS often request additional proof of relationships or income. Responding incorrectly can jeopardize the entire case.
Proving a Bona Fide Marriage or Relationship
Marriage-based cases require strong evidence to prove legitimacy. Weak documentation can trigger scrutiny or denial.
How an Experienced Attorney Can Navigate Complex Cases
An experienced immigration lawyer for family visa cases can:
Anticipate problems before they arise
Prepare strong documentation
Communicate with USCIS and consulates
Protect families from costly mistakes
Many families choose to speak with a professional through a consultation before proceeding. You may contact us to schedule a consultation by clicking the following link: contact us.