How Long Does it Take to Get US Green Card for Parents?

If you’re a U.S. citizen aged 21 or older, you have the legal right to sponsor your parents for a family based green card, granting them permanent residency in the United States. This process is an invaluable opportunity to reunite families, offering your parents the chance to live, work, and thrive in the U.S. without legal restrictions.

While the process may seem straightforward, it involves multiple steps, documentation, and legal requirements. To ensure a smooth and efficient application process, it’s highly recommended to seek professional guidance from Linda Lee at The Immigration Law Office of Los Angeles, P.C.

Key Details at a Glance

Average Processing Time:

Approximately 14 months (as of February 2025) is the average processing time for the green card application process involving I-130 or I-130/I-485, though this can vary based on individual circumstances and government processing times. If abroad, you will want to budget another 8 to 12 months for Embassy Processing of the immigrant visa.

Application Costs:

$625 for online filing through the USCIS website, and $675 for traditional paper filing. Additional costs may include medical examination fees, translation services, and document procurement. I-485 fees are $1440. If Consular Processing, budget another $1,000. These forms and costs are part of the process for obtaining immigrant visas.

Required Forms:

Form I-130: Petition for Alien Relative to establish your relationship.
Form I-485: Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status (if your parent is already in the U.S.).
Form I-864: Affidavit of Support to prove financial ability.
Form I-693: Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record.

Benefits of a Green Card for Parents

Obtaining a green card for your parents offers numerous life-changing advantages:

Permanent Residency:
- Your parents can live in the U.S. indefinitely without the need to renew visas or worry about overstaying. As lawful permanent residents, they can enjoy the stability and security of living in the U.S. permanently.
- They can reside anywhere within the U.S. and move freely between states.
Work Authorization:
- They can work for any employer in the U.S., be self-employed, or start their own business without additional permits.
- They are entitled to the same labor rights and protections as U.S. citizens.
Access to Social Services:
- Eligibility for Medicare (after five years of permanent residency).
- Access to social security benefits, public healthcare services, and possible eligibility for supplemental income programs.
Travel Flexibility:
- Green card holders can travel abroad for up to one year without risking their residency status. For longer trips, a re-entry permit can be obtained.
- They can freely visit family abroad and return without the complexities of reapplying for visas.
Pathway to Citizenship:
- After five years of permanent residency (or three years if married to a U.S. citizen), your parents can apply for U.S. citizenship.
- Citizenship offers additional benefits, including the right to vote and obtain a U.S. passport.
Family Unity:
- Reuniting with parents allows families to support each other emotionally, financially, and socially.
- Being present for life milestones like weddings, births, graduations, and family holidays strengthens bonds.
Property Ownership:
- Green card holders can purchase property, open bank accounts, invest in businesses, and plan for retirement.
- They can also inherit property from family members without restrictions.
Educational Opportunities:
- Your parents can enroll in adult education classes, community college courses, or pursue advanced degrees.
- They may qualify for in-state tuition rates and certain financial aid programs.

Eligibility Requirements

To sponsor your parents for a green card, you must meet the following criteria:

U.S. Citizenship:
- Only U.S. citizens aged 21 or older can sponsor their parents. Green card holders (permanent residents) cannot sponsor their parents until they naturalize.
Proof of Relationship:
- You must provide legal documentation to prove your relationship with your parent, such as birth certificates, adoption papers, or other legal documents.
- If your parents are divorced or remarried, additional documentation may be required to verify the relationship.
Financial Requirements:
- You must demonstrate that you have sufficient income to support your parents by submitting an Affidavit of Support (Form I-864).
- Your income must be at least 125% of the federal poverty guidelines for your household size.

Step-by-Step Application Process for Parents Living Abroad

File Form I-130:
- Submit the Petition for Alien Relative to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to establish your relationship with your parent.
- Include supporting documents such as birth certificates, proof of U.S. citizenship, and identity verification.
Receive Priority Date:
- After USCIS approves the I-130 petition, your parent will receive a priority date. This date determines their place in line for visa processing.
- Immediate relatives (parents of U.S. citizens) typically do not face long waiting times, as visas are readily available.
Check Visa Availability:
- While visas for parents of U.S. citizens are generally available, certain countries may experience processing delays.
- Check the Visa Bulletin published monthly by the Department of State for updates.
Choose Processing Method:
- Consular Processing: If your parent lives abroad, they will complete the process at the U.S. embassy or consulate in their home country.
- Adjustment of Status: If your parent is already in the U.S. legally, they can file Form I-485 to adjust their status without leaving the country. This can be filed concurrently with the I-130 petition, but seek experienced immigration counsel to evaluate pre-conceived immigrant intent issues prior to filing.
Attend Green Card Interview:
- Both you and your parent will be required to attend an interview to verify the authenticity of your relationship and eligibility for the green card.
- Bring original documents and be prepared to answer questions about your family history.
Receive Green Card:
- If approved, your parent will receive a green card, granting them lawful permanent resident status in the U.S.
- The green card is typically valid for 10 years and can be renewed or used to apply for citizenship.

Special Considerations

For Parents Already in the U.S.:

They must maintain their current legal status while applying for an adjustment of status.
Ensure concurrent filing of Form I-130 and Form I-485 to streamline the process.
Overstaying a visa can complicate the process and may require legal intervention.

For Parents Living Abroad:

The process involves consular processing, requiring interviews and medical exams at the U.S. embassy or consulate.
Prepare for potential delays based on the consulate’s workload and your parent’s country of residence.

How to Apply for a Green Card for Your Parent Who Is In the U.S.

If you are a U.S. citizen aged 21 or older, you can sponsor your parents for a green card, granting them lawful permanent residency in the United States. Unlike other family-based green cards, there is no annual limit on the number issued to parents of U.S. citizens

1. Confirm Eligibility and Admissibility

Eligibility Requirements

To apply for a green card for your parent, you must be a U.S. citizen aged 21 or older. Your parent must fall into one of the following categories:

Biological parent
Adoptive parent (adoption finalized before your 16th birthday)
Step-parent (married to your biological parent before your 18th birthday)
Father of a child born out of wedlock (with proof of a relationship before the child’s 21st birthday)

Admissibility Criteria

Even if your parent is eligible, they must also be admissible to the U.S. Factors that can affect admissibility include:

Public Charge Rule: If your parent has received public benefits or is likely to depend on government assistance, they may be inadmissible. Learn more about the Public Charge Rule.
Criminal History: Certain crimes can make your parent inadmissible.
Health Concerns: Contagious diseases or lack of required vaccinations can impact admissibility.

For a full list of inadmissibility factors, visit the USCIS website.

2. Submit Form I-130: Petition for Alien Relative

Once eligibility and admissibility are confirmed, file Form I-130 to start the green card process. This form establishes your legal relationship with your parent.

Steps to File Form I-130:

Download the Form: Form I-130
Filing Fee: $675 per parent.
Processing Time: Typically 14 months.
Where to Submit: Depending on where you live, mail the form to the appropriate USCIS address listed here.

3. Provide Proof of Your Relationship

USCIS requires evidence to confirm your relationship with your parent. The documents you need vary based on your situation:

If You Are Petitioning for Your…	Include These Documents:
Mother	Birth certificate with both names, proof of U.S. citizenship (passport or naturalization certificate).
Father (married to your mother)	Birth certificate, marriage certificate of parents, proof of U.S. citizenship.
Father (born out of wedlock)	Birth certificate, proof of a relationship before turning 21, proof of U.S. citizenship.
Step-parent	Birth certificate, marriage certificate of biological parent and step-parent (before age 18), proof of U.S. citizenship.
Adoptive parent	Adoption decree (before age 16), proof of U.S. citizenship, statement of cohabitation history.

For more details on supporting documents, visit USCIS Supporting Documents.

4. File Form I-864: Affidavit of Support

As the petitioner, you must prove that you can financially support your parent to prevent them from becoming a public charge.

Steps to File Form I-864:

Download the Form: Form I-864
No Filing Fee Required
Proof of Income: Include tax returns, W-2 forms, or pay stubs.

For more guidance, review the USCIS Affidavit of Support Guide.

5. Prepare and Submit the Green Card Application

Depending on where your parent resides, you will follow one of two pathways:

A. Adjustment of Status (Parent in the U.S.)

Form I-485: File Form I-485 to adjust your parent’s status.
Filing Fee: $1,440.
Supporting Documents: Birth certificate, government-issued ID, two passport photos, Form I-864.

B. Consular Processing (Parent outside the U.S.)

Form DS-260: Submit this online immigrant visa application.
Processing Fee: $325 for application, $120 for affidavit processing.
Next Steps: After USCIS approval, the National Visa Center (NVC) will guide your parent through the remaining steps.

For more on consular processing, visit the U.S. State Department’s website.

6. Optional Forms: Work Authorization and Travel Permit

If your parent is applying from within the U.S., they can request:

Form I-765: To obtain a work permit while the green card application is pending. Form I-765
Form I-131: To apply for Advance Parole, allowing travel outside the U.S. without a visa. Form I-131

7. Complete the Medical Exam and Submit Form I-693

Your parent must undergo a medical examination by a USCIS-designated doctor.

Steps for the Medical Exam:

Form I-693: Download Form I-693.
Designated Doctors: Find a list of approved physicians here.
Important: Submit the sealed medical report with the green card application or bring it to the interview.

USCIS Waives COVID-19 Vaccination Requirement:

Starting January 22, 2025, applicants for adjustment of status to lawful permanent resident no longer need to provide proof of receiving the COVID-19 vaccination on their Form I-693, Report of Immigration Medical Examination and Vaccination Record. USCIS will not issue Requests for Evidence (RFE) or Notices of Intent to Deny (NOID) related to COVID-19 vaccination proof, nor will it deny applications based on the absence of this documentation.
For the latest updates, visit USCIS’ official website.

8. Final Submission and What Happens Next

Adjustment of Status Applicants: Mail all forms and supporting documents to USCIS. Find the correct address here.

Consular Processing Applicants: Submit documents to the NVC as instructed after Form DS-260 approval.

After Submission:

Receive Form I-797C: Confirmation of receipt from USCIS.
Biometrics Appointment: Expect a notice within 2-3 weeks.
Interview: Your parent will attend an interview at a USCIS office (if in the U.S.) or a U.S. consulate (if abroad).

For more on what to expect post-submission, visit USCIS Processing Steps

Challenges to Watch Out For

Age-In Issues:

If the sponsoring child is close to turning 21, it’s crucial to initiate the process early to avoid complications. But do not file the I-130 petition until the child has already turned 21.

Quotas and Waiting Times:

While immediate relatives are generally exempt from annual quotas, processing times can vary based on the applicant’s country of origin.

Criminal History or Immigration Violations:

Any history of criminal activity or immigration violations may affect your parents’ eligibility. Seek legal advice if needed.

Financial Requirements:

Sponsors must meet income requirements. Failure to meet these requirements could result in delays or denials.

Document Accuracy:

Incomplete or inaccurate documentation can delay processing. Ensure all documents are translated (if necessary) and submitted correctly.

Choosing the Right Process:

Deciding between consular processing and adjustment of status depends on your parent’s location and current legal status.

Cultural Adjustment:

Moving to a new country can be challenging. Providing language support and cultural orientation can ease the transition.

Health Considerations:

Medical exams and vaccinations are required as part of the green card process. Ensure your parents’ health records are up to date.

If You Were Born Out of Wedlock (Father Not Legitimated Before 18):

Submit Form I-130.
A copy of your birth certificate showing your name and your father’s name.
If not U.S.-born, provide your Certificate of Naturalization or U.S. passport.
Evidence of an emotional or financial bond with your father before you turned 21 or got married.

If You Were Born Out of Wedlock (Father Legitimated Before 18):

Submit Form I-130.
A copy of your birth certificate showing your name and your father’s name.
Proof of legitimation before age 18 via marriage of natural parents or applicable state/country laws.

If Petitioning for a Step-Parent:

Submit Form I-130.
A copy of your birth certificate showing your birth parents’ names.
A copy of your birth parent’s marriage certificate to your step-parent (must have occurred before your 18th birthday).
Documents showing the legal termination of any prior marriages (divorce decrees, death certificates, etc.).

If Petitioning for an Adoptive Parent:

Submit Form I-130.
A copy of your birth certificate.
If not U.S.-born, include your Certificate of Naturalization or U.S. passport.
A certified copy of the adoption certificate showing the adoption occurred before your 16th birthday.
A statement listing the dates and places you lived with your adoptive parent.

Note: If your or your parent’s name has changed, include legal proof (e.g., marriage certificate, court order).

Employment Authorization (Work Permit)

If Your Parent is Outside the U.S.:
- Upon arrival, their passport will be stamped to allow them to work in the U.S. until their Green Card arrives.
If Your Parent is in the U.S. and Adjusting Status:
- They can apply for a work permit using Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization).
- They can also apply for travel authorization using Form I-131 (Application for Travel Document).

Important Notes About Family Members

Minor Children Abroad (Your Siblings):
- Cannot be included in the same petition. Visit the Bringing Siblings to Live in the United States as Permanent Residents page for more details.
- Once your parent becomes a permanent resident, they can file separate petitions for qualifying relatives.

What If My Petition Is Denied?

If your petition is denied, the denial letter will provide:

Instructions on how to appeal.
The deadline for filing the appeal.

Once you submit the appeal and the required fee, it will be reviewed by the Board of Immigration Appeals.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Many questions arise for all dual citizens in the nation. Here are some helpful answers to all these frequently asked questions considering real-world issues.

Can a green card holder sponsor their parents?

No, only U.S. citizens can sponsor their parents for a green card. Green card holders must first become U.S. citizens to do so.

What documents are needed to prove the parent-child relationship?

i. Required documents include birth certificates, adoption papers (if applicable), and proof of U.S. citizenship.
ii. In cases of name changes or discrepancies, additional legal documents may be required.

What are the financial requirements?

i. Sponsors must submit Form I-864 (Affidavit of Support) demonstrating an income of at least 125% of the federal poverty guidelines for their household size.
ii. Alternative financial evidence, such as assets, may be considered if income is insufficient.

How long does the process take?

The average processing time is around 14 months, but it may vary depending on the individual’s country of origin, completeness of the application, and USCIS workload.

How Long Does the Process Take?

Typically, 14-24 months, depending on the service center’s backlog. Check current processing times.

Can My Parent Work While Their Green Card is Pending?

Yes, if they filed Form I-765 and received an Employment Authorization Document (EAD).

Does My Parent Need to Stay in the U.S. After Receiving a Green Card?

Yes. Extended time outside the U.S. (over 6 months) may risk losing permanent resident status.

How Can I Check the Status of the Application?

i. For Adjustment of Status: Use the USCIS case tracker.
ii. For Consular Processing: Use the State Department case tracker.

What if the Application is Denied?

Review the denial notice for reasons. Consider consulting an immigration attorney or seeking legal aid if cost is an issue. Find legal aid resources.

General Eligibility

Can a U.S. citizen sponsor their parents for a green card?

Yes, U.S. citizens who are at least 21 years old can sponsor their biological or adoptive parents for lawful permanent residence (green card).

Can a green card holder (lawful permanent resident) sponsor their parents?

No, only U.S. citizens can sponsor their parents for a green card.

Is there a waiting period before a U.S. citizen can sponsor their parents?

Once you become a U.S. citizen and turn 21, you can immediately start the process. There is no additional waiting period.

Can I sponsor a step-parent for a green card?

Yes, if the marriage between your biological parent and step-parent took place before your 18th birthday.

Can I sponsor both my parents at the same time?

Yes, but you must file separate petitions for each parent.

Required Documentation

What forms do I need to file to sponsor my parents?

i. Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative) for each parent.
ii. Form I-864 (Affidavit of Support) showing you can financially support your parent.
If your parent is already in the U.S., you’ll also file Form I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence).

What documents are needed to prove my relationship with my parents?

i. Birth certificate showing both your name and your parent’s name.
ii. If sponsoring an adoptive parent: legal adoption papers.
iii. If sponsoring a step-parent: marriage certificate of your biological parent and step-parent, and proof of the legal end of any previous marriages.

Do I need to submit proof of U.S. citizenship?

Yes. Acceptable documents include your U.S. birth certificate, U.S. passport, naturalization certificate, or certificate of citizenship.

What financial documents are required?

Recent tax returns, W-2s, and pay stubs to demonstrate you meet the income requirement.
Proof of assets if your income isn’t sufficient.

Income Requirements and Affidavit of Support

How much income do I need to sponsor my parents?

You must demonstrate an income of at least 125% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines based on your household size, including the parent(s) you’re sponsoring.

What if I don’t meet the income requirement?

You can use assets to supplement your income or find a joint sponsor who meets the income requirements.

Do my parents need to work or have income to qualify?

No. Your income is what matters for sponsorship. However, their financial information might be required in some cases.

Application Process and Timelines

How long does it take to get a green card for parents?

For parents of U.S. citizens, there is no annual cap, so the process generally takes 12-18 months. However, this can vary depending on whether the parent is applying from inside the U.S. or abroad.

What’s the difference between consular processing and adjustment of status?

i. Consular Processing: For parents applying from outside the U.S. via a U.S. embassy or consulate.
ii. Adjustment of Status (Form I-485): For parents already in the U.S. on a valid visa.

Can my parents stay in the U.S. while their application is pending?

If your parents entered legally and file for adjustment of status, they can stay while the application is processed. If applying from abroad, they must wait outside the U.S.

Can my parents travel while their green card application is pending?

If they filed for adjustment of status, they need Advance Parole (Form I-131) to leave and re-enter the U.S. without abandoning their application.

Medical Examination and Interview

Do my parents need a medical exam?

Yes. A medical exam by a USCIS-approved civil surgeon is required. This includes vaccinations and tests for communicable diseases.

Is an interview required for parents?

Yes, an interview is typically required at a USCIS office (for adjustment of status) or at a U.S. consulate (for consular processing).

What happens at the green card interview?

The officer will verify the relationship, review the documentation, and ask about your parents’ background. It’s usually straightforward for parent sponsorship.

Legal and Special Situations

Can I sponsor a parent if I was born out of wedlock?

Yes. If sponsoring your mother, you only need to prove the biological relationship. For your father, additional evidence of a bona fide parent-child relationship is required if he wasn’t married to your mother.

Can I sponsor a parent if I was adopted?

Yes, but only if the adoption was finalized before you turned 16, and you have lived together for at least two years.

Can I sponsor a parent who is undocumented?

If your parent entered the U.S. legally but overstayed their visa, they might be eligible to adjust status. However, if they entered illegally, they may face additional legal challenges and should consult an immigration attorney.

What if my parent has a criminal record?

Some criminal records may affect eligibility. It’s important to disclose all information and consult an immigration attorney if there are concerns.

Post-Green Card and Citizenship

How long will my parents’ green card be valid?

Your parents will receive a 10-year green card. It is renewable indefinitely as long as they maintain permanent residence.

Can my parents work in the U.S. after getting a green card?

Yes, green card holders can work in the U.S. without restriction.

How long before my parents can apply for U.S. citizenship?

Your parents can apply for citizenship after 5 years of permanent residence, provided they meet all other naturalization requirements.

Do my parents need to stay in the U.S. all the time?

To maintain their green card, they should avoid long absences from the U.S. (generally more than 6 months). Extended stays abroad could be seen as abandoning permanent residency.

Troubleshooting and Common Issues

What if my petition is denied?

You can file an appeal or motion to reopen/reconsider. Consulting an immigration attorney can help address the reasons for denial.

What if there’s a mistake on the application?

If the application hasn’t been processed yet, you can correct it by contacting USCIS. If it’s already submitted, you might need to file a correction form or notify the consulate.

How can I check the status of my application?

You can track your application on the USCIS website using the receipt number from your application notice.

What if my parent’s name is spelled differently on documents?

Provide affidavits explaining discrepancies and any supporting legal documents like name change certificates.

Can my parent include dependents (like a spouse or other children) on their green card application?

No. Parents cannot include dependents on their application. Each eligible family member must have their own petition.

Legal Assistance for a Smooth Process

Navigating the green card process can be complex and time-consuming. Consulting with an experienced immigration attorney such as Richard Herman can help streamline the process, ensuring that all requirements are met and increasing the likelihood of a successful outcome. Our team can assist with document preparation, legal advice, and representation during interviews.

Seek out counsel from the Herman Legal Group, a U.S. immigration law firm with over 25 years of experience representing individuals, families, and companies in all aspects of immigration law, in all 50 states and around the world.

Reunite with Your Loved Ones—Start the Green Card Process Today!

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