Generally, a U.S. citizen or a lawful permanent resident (Green Card holder) can sponsor certain family members for a green card. The specific relatives who can be petitioned depend on the sponsor's immigration status and relationship to the beneficiary.
Sponsorship by a U.S. Citizen
U.S. citizens have broader sponsorship capabilities and can petition for a wider range of relatives, some of whom are considered "immediate relatives" (spouses, unmarried minor children, and parents) and are not subject to annual visa quotas, leading to potentially faster processing times.
Here’s a breakdown of who a U.S. citizen can sponsor:
| Sponsor Type | Immigrants You Can Petition | Specific Requirements for Sponsor |
|---|---|---|
| U.S. citizen | Parents | Must be at least 21 years old |
| U.S. citizen | Spouse | Must be at least 18 years old (for financial sponsorship purposes) |
| U.S. citizen | Minor, unmarried children | Must be at least 18 years old (for financial sponsorship purposes) |
In addition to these, U.S. citizens can also sponsor:
- Unmarried sons and daughters (age 21 or older)
- Married sons and daughters of any age
- Siblings (brothers and sisters), if the U.S. citizen is at least 21 years old
Sponsorship by a Lawful Permanent Resident (Green Card Holder)
Lawful permanent residents can also sponsor certain family members, though their sponsorship categories are more limited compared to U.S. citizens and are subject to visa quotas, which often results in longer waiting periods.
Generally, lawful permanent residents can sponsor:
- Spouses
- Unmarried children of any age
The ability to sponsor someone for a green card is a significant responsibility, as the sponsor typically needs to demonstrate the financial capacity to support the sponsored immigrant. This often involves signing an affidavit of support, committing to financially support the immigrant until they become a U.S. citizen or have worked for 40 quarters (approximately 10 years).
