How to Petition for a Parent to Join You in the U.S. from Georgia

How to Petition for a Parent to Join You in the U.S. from Georgia

Petitioning for a parent to join you in the United States can be an intricate process, but understanding the steps involved can simplify the journey. If you reside in Georgia and wish to bring your parent to live with you in the U.S., here is a comprehensive guide to help you navigate through this procedure.

1. Determine Your Eligibility
Before initiating the petition, ensure you meet the eligibility requirements. To petition for a parent, you must be a U.S. citizen and at least 21 years old. Legal permanent residents (green card holders) do not have the ability to sponsor parents.

2. Complete Form I-130
The first step in the petitioning process is to file Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative. This form establishes the relationship between you and your parent. You can download the form from the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website. Complete the form carefully, providing accurate information to avoid delays.

3. Gather Supporting Documents
Along with Form I-130, you need to submit supporting documents, including:
- A copy of your U.S. citizen certificate, birth certificate, or naturalization certificate.
- Proof of your relationship, such as your birth certificate showing your parent's name.
- Two passport-sized photos of you and your parent, taken within the last six months.
- Any legal documents regarding name changes (if applicable).

4. Pay the Filing Fee
The filing fee for Form I-130 is $535. Payment can be made via check or money order, payable to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. Make sure to check the USCIS website for the most up-to-date fees, as amounts can change.

5. Submit Your Petition
After completing Form I-130 and gathering all necessary documents, mail them to the appropriate USCIS address. If you're in Georgia, check the USCIS website for the correct address based on your type of application. Ensure all documents are securely attached and that you keep copies of everything you send.

6. Wait for Processing
After submission, USCIS will process your petition. You will receive a notice confirming receipt of your petition. Processing times can vary, so regularly check the USCIS processing times for your specific case. You can also track your petition status online.

7. Attend the Visa Interview
If your petition is approved, your parent will need to apply for an immigrant visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate in their home country. This involves submitting Form DS-260, Online Immigrant Visa Application, and attending an interview. Be sure your parent prepares for this interview by having all documents and evidence ready to show their relationship to you.

8. Complete Medical Examination
Before the visa interview, your parent must undergo a medical examination by an approved physician. The results of this examination must be submitted at the time of the interview.

9. Await Visa Approval
If the consular officer approves the visa application, your parent will receive their visa and can make travel arrangements to join you in the U.S. Remember to have all necessary documents ready for entry into the country, including an immigration visa and passport.

10. Arrive in the U.S.
Once your parent arrives in the U.S., they will be processed at the port of entry. After successfully entering the country, they will receive their green card in the mail, solidifying their status as a lawful permanent resident.

Bringing a parent to the U.S. can be a fulfilling endeavor, uniting families and ensuring that loved ones can live together. By following the steps outlined above, you can navigate the petition process from Georgia successfully. For more information and resources, consider visiting the USCIS website or consulting with an immigration attorney to better understand your specific situation.