If you’re a U.S. citizen dreaming of reuniting with your parents in America, you’re in luck. You can sponsor your parents for a green card and help them become lawful permanent residents. But how exactly does the process work? How long does it take? And what steps should you follow to avoid delays?

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about sponsoring parents for a green card, from eligibility requirements to filing the right forms. Whether your parents are currently in the U.S. on a B1/B2 visa, H1B, or living abroad, we’ll cover the fastest and most efficient way to bring them to the U.S. permanently.

Can the U.S. Citizen Sponsor Parents for a Green Card?

Yes! If you’re a U.S. citizen aged 21 or older, you can petition for your parents to get a green card. Unlike other family-based visas, there’s no annual cap on parent green cards, meaning the process is often faster than other immigration pathways.

However, permanent residents (green card holders) cannot sponsor their parents; only U.S. citizens have this privilege.

Who Qualifies as a “Parent” for Immigration Purposes?

You can petition for:

• Biological parents
• Adoptive parents (if adopted before age 16)
• Stepparents (if married to your biological parent before you turned 18)

If you’re wondering, “Can a son petition a parent?”—the answer is yes, as long as you meet the citizenship and age requirements.

Step-by-Step Process: How to Apply for a Green Card for Parents

Step 1: Confirm Your Parent’s Eligibility & Admissibility

Before filing, ensure your parent:
✔ Has a qualifying relationship with you (birth, adoption, or stepparent status)
✔ Is not inadmissible due to criminal history, visa violations, or public charge concerns

If your parent has ever been deported, overstayed a visa, or has a criminal record, consult an immigration attorney before applying.

Step 2: File Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative)

This form establishes your parent-child relationship with USCIS.

• Filing Fee: $535 
• Processing Time: 6–12 months 
• Required Documents: Your birth certificate, proof of U.S. citizenship, and evidence of your parent’s identity 

Pro Tip: If your parent is already in the U.S., you can file Form I-485 (Adjustment of Status) concurrently to speed up the process.

Step 3: Submit Form I-864 (Affidavit of Support)

Since you’re sponsoring your parent, you must prove you can financially support them and prevent them from becoming a public charge.

• Minimum Income Requirement: Typically 125% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines 
• Joint Sponsors Allowed: If your income is insufficient, a co-sponsor can help 

Step 4: Apply for the Green Card (Adjustment of Status or Consular Processing)

The next steps depend on whether your parent is inside or outside the U.S.

Option 1: Adjustment of Status (If Parent Is in the U.S.)

• File Form I-485 ($1,140 fee + $85 biometrics fee) 
• Submit medical exam results (Form I-693) 
• Attend a green card interview 

Option 2: Consular Processing (If Parent Is Abroad)

• After I-130 approval, the case moves to the National Visa Center (NVC) 
• Submit Form DS-260 (Online Immigrant Visa Application) 
• Attend a visa interview at a U.S. embassy/consulate 

Step 5: Optional Steps (Work & Travel Permits)

While waiting for the green card, your parent can:
✔ Apply for a work permit (EAD) via Form I-765
✔ Get Advance Parole (Form I-131) to travel outside the U.S.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Green Card for Parents?

The timeline varies, but here’s a general estimate:

• I-130 Processing: 6–12 months 
• Consular Processing (if abroad): 3–6 months after I-130 approval 
• Adjustment of Status (if in the U.S.): 8–14 months total 

Fastest Option: If your parent is already in the U.S., filing I-130 and I-485 together can shorten the wait time.

Take the First Step with VeriPass Today

Immigration can be overwhelming, especially when your career is already demanding. VeriPass brings clarity, confidence, and structure to the process. Our mission is simple: help the world’s top talent secure their place in the U.S. with integrity and speed. Whether you’re applying for yourself or seeking to bring family members through a different pathway, VeriPass offers strategic support to make it happen.

Think you might qualify? Reach out to VeriPass for a confidential case assessment and discover whether you’re eligible for an O-1 or EB-2 NIW visa.

FAQs

1. Can a Green Card Holder Sponsor Parents?

No, only U.S. citizens aged 21+ can petition for parents.

2. How Much Does It Cost to Sponsor Parents for a Green Card?

• Form I-130: $535 
• Form I-485: $1,225 (including biometrics) 
• Medical Exam: $200–$500 
• Total Estimated Cost: $2,000–$3,000 

3. Can Parents Stay in the U.S. While Waiting for a Green Card?

Yes, if they entered legally and are applying via Adjustment of Status. If they’re abroad, they must wait for consular processing.

4. Can My Parents Work While Their Green Card Is Pending?

Only if they apply for an EAD (work permit). Otherwise, they must wait until they receive their green card.

5. What If My Parents Get Denied?

Common reasons for denial include incomplete forms, insufficient financial support, or inadmissibility issues. If denied, consult an immigration lawyer to explore appeals or reapplication options.

Sponsoring your parents for a green card is one of the quickest family-based immigration routes, but the process requires careful preparation. By filing the right forms, proving financial stability, and avoiding common mistakes, you can successfully bring your parents to the USA and reunite your family.