Only parents and sometimes step-parents of U.S. Citizens are eligible to apply for a green card under this category.

The son or daughter must be:

• A U.S. Citizen by birth or naturalization
• Over 21 years of age

Procedure when the parent is already in the United States:

• A sponsoring son or daughter files the immigrant petition (I-130) and green card application with DHS
• DHS processes the application. Within a few months, the applicant receives a fingerprint appointment and an order to pick up the work authorization/travel permit.
• DHS schedules an interview at the local DHS office. At the interview, the officer can approve the green card on the spot, ask for additional evidence or hold until the applicant’s security clearance and fingerprints have cleared with the F.B.I.

When the parent is abroad:

• A sponsoring son or daughter files the immigrant petition (I-130) with DHS
• DHS forwards the petition to the National Visa Center for security checks and other processing
• The NVC forwards the petition to the U.S. Consulate in the parent’s home country
• The parent goes to interview and enters the U.S. as a green card holder

Please note that in some instances a U.S. Citizen may petition for his or her step-parent. If the citizen’s parent married his or her spouse prior to the 18th birthday of the U.S. Citizen, then that step-parent may be eligible to immigrate as the parent of a U.S. Citizen.

If you think you need a lawyer to handle your immigration case, please contact Ms Troy to arrange a consultation to discuss your options. Located in San Francisco, Immigration Attorney Christine Troy can help guide you through the various legal processes and resolve any issues regarding your case. Ms Troy works on cases in San Francisco, the San Francisco Bay Area, Northern and Southern California, across the United States, and internationally.