How can I get my parents US citizenship? This is a question that many individuals who are either born in the United States or have legal status here often ask themselves. Obtaining citizenship for one’s parents can be a complex and lengthy process, but it is certainly achievable with the right guidance and perseverance. In this article, we will explore the various methods and steps you can take to help your parents gain US citizenship.
The first step in obtaining US citizenship for your parents is to determine their eligibility. There are several ways they may qualify, including through your own US citizenship, through naturalization, or through a family-based immigration category. If you are a US citizen, you may be eligible to petition for your parents to become lawful permanent residents (LPRs) and eventually citizens. The process can vary depending on whether your parents are currently in the United States or not.
For parents who are in the United States, the process typically involves the following steps:
1. Petitioning: As a US citizen, you can file Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, to request that your parents be granted LPR status.
2. Waiting for Approval: There may be a long wait time for the petition to be approved, as it depends on the category your parents fall under and the number of applicants in that category.
3. Adjustment of Status: Once the petition is approved, your parents can apply for adjustment of status to LPR, which allows them to legally live and work in the United States.
4. Waiting for Priority Date: Your parents must wait for their priority date to become current, which is determined by the category they fall under and the date their petition was filed.
5. Applying for Naturalization: Once your parents have been in the United States as LPRs for a certain period of time (typically three to five years, depending on their category), they can apply for naturalization to become US citizens.
For parents who are outside the United States, the process may be more complicated and may involve consular processing. This involves filing Form I-130 and then applying for an immigrant visa through a US embassy or consulate in their country of residence. The process can be lengthy, as it may take years for their priority date to become current and for them to receive an immigrant visa.
It is important to work with an immigration attorney or a qualified immigration expert to navigate the complex process of obtaining US citizenship for your parents. They can help you understand the requirements, prepare the necessary forms, and provide guidance throughout the process. While the journey may be long and challenging, it is certainly possible to help your parents achieve their dream of becoming US citizens.
