Many families are blended, and it’s common for U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents to wonder whether they can sponsor a stepchild for a green card. The good news is, yes, you can sponsor your stepchild — but there are strict rules you need to follow.

The Key Requirement: Timing

One of the most important factors is when the marriage took place. The marriage that created the stepparent-stepchild relationship must have occurred before the child turned 18 years old. If the marriage happened after the child’s 18th birthday, sponsorship is not possible under immigration law.

Proving a Legitimate Marriage

It’s not enough just to show that you are married. Immigration authorities will examine whether your marriage is bona fide (legitimate). This means:

• You must have been legally single at the time of the marriage.

• The marriage must not have been entered into solely for immigration purposes.

Establishing the Relationship

The government will carefully review your documents and evidence to confirm that your relationship with your spouse and stepchild is real and genuine. Providing strong documentation, such as marriage certificates, joint financial records, photos, and affidavits, can help demonstrate the authenticity of your marriage.

Final Thoughts

Sponsoring a stepchild for a green card is possible, but success depends on meeting the timing requirement and proving that your marriage is legitimate. Immigration officers look closely at these details, so being thorough and honest in your application is critical.