If you are a U.S. citizen seeking to bring your parents to the U.S. to live permanently, you can do so by sponsoring them for a green card through family-based immigration. As immediate relatives of a U.S. citizen, your parents are eligible to adjust their status to lawful permanent residents (green card holders). The process begins with filing Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, to establish your relationship. You must provide supporting documents, including proof of your U.S. citizenship and evidence of your parent-child relationship, such as your birth certificate.

One advantage of sponsoring your parents for a green card is the possibility of concurrent filing if they are already in the U.S. under a valid visa. Concurrent filing allows you to file Form I-130 and Form I-485, Application to Adjust Status, at the same time. This process enables your parents to remain in the U.S. during the processing of their green card applications without needing to return to their home country. Along with these forms, you’ll also need to submit affidavits of support and other documentation to prove you can financially support your parents.

If your parents are outside the U.S., they will need to go through consular processing, which involves attending an interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate. Whether through adjustment of status or consular processing, the key to a smooth application process is ensuring thorough preparation. An experienced immigration attorney can help navigate any potential challenges and assist with responding to requests for additional information or addressing complications, increasing the chances of a successful outcome.