Age Requirements for U.S. Citizens to Sponsor Their Parents for Immigration- A Comprehensive Guide

How Old Must a U.S. Citizen Be to Apply for Their Parents?

The United States offers various immigration benefits to citizens, allowing them to bring their immediate family members to the country. One of the most significant benefits is the ability for U.S. citizens to apply for their parents to become lawful permanent residents. However, many individuals are unsure about the age requirements for a U.S. citizen to apply for their parents. This article will delve into this topic and provide clarity on the minimum age a U.S. citizen must be to apply for their parents.

Minimum Age Requirement

According to U.S. immigration laws, a U.S. citizen must be at least 21 years old to apply for their parents. This age requirement ensures that the citizen has reached adulthood and is financially and emotionally capable of supporting their parents. Once the citizen reaches the age of 21, they can file an I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, on behalf of their parents.

Eligibility for Parental Application

Once the U.S. citizen reaches the age of 21, they can file an I-130 petition for their parents. However, there are a few eligibility requirements that must be met before the application can be approved:

1. Relationship: The U.S. citizen must have a biological or adoptive relationship with their parents.
2. Legal Age: The U.S. citizen must be at least 21 years old.
3. No Previous Petitions: The U.S. citizen must not have previously filed an I-130 petition for their parents.

Application Process

The application process for a U.S. citizen to bring their parents to the United States involves several steps:

1. Filing an I-130 petition: The U.S. citizen must complete and submit Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, along with supporting documents proving the relationship between the citizen and their parents.
2. Waiting for approval: After filing the petition, the applicant must wait for it to be approved by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
3. Priority Date: Once the petition is approved, a priority date is assigned to the application. This date determines the applicant’s place in the queue for an available visa number.
4. Visa Application: Once a visa number becomes available, the applicant must complete the visa application process and undergo medical examinations and interviews.
5. Adjustment of Status: If the applicant is in the United States, they may apply for adjustment of status to become a lawful permanent resident.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a U.S. citizen must be at least 21 years old to apply for their parents as lawful permanent residents. This age requirement ensures that the citizen is mature enough to support their parents and meet the eligibility criteria for the application process. By understanding the age and eligibility requirements, U.S. citizens can take the necessary steps to bring their parents to the United States and reunite their families.