In order to sponsor a family member to immigrate to the United States, the sponsor must meet the following criteria:
- Be a citizen or lawful permanent resident (Green Card holder) of the U.S. and be able to provide documentation proving that status.
- Prove the ability to support the relative at 125% above the mandated poverty line with an Affidavit of Support.
A lawful permanent resident (Green Card holder) is a foreign national who has been granted the privilege of permanently living and working in the United States. A lawful permanent resident can file a petition for the following relatives:
- Husband or wife
- Minor unmarried children (under the age of 21)
- Unmarried adult son or daughter of any age
A U.S. Citizen of any age (either by birth or by naturalization) can file a petition for the following relatives:
- Husband or wife
- Minor unmarried children (under the age of 21)
- Unmarried adult son or daughter (21 or older)
- Married son or daughter of any age
A U.S. citizen who is at least 21 years or older can file a petition for the following relatives:
- Brother or sister, if the sponsor is at least 21 years old
- Parent, if the sponsor is at least 21 years old
