Exploring the Possibility- Can a Green Card Holder Extend an Invitation to Their Parents-

Can a Green Card Holder Invite Parents to the United States?

One of the most common questions among green card holders is whether they can invite their parents to live in the United States. The answer to this question depends on several factors, including the type of green card the individual holds and the immigration laws in place at the time of the application.

Green card holders, also known as lawful permanent residents, can invite their parents to the United States through two primary avenues: family-based immigration and humanitarian parole.

Family-Based Immigration:

Under family-based immigration, a green card holder can file an I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, on behalf of their parents. Once the petition is approved, the parents can apply for an immigrant visa, which allows them to legally enter the United States and eventually become permanent residents. The process can be lengthy, as it involves several steps, including the filing of the petition, the priority date, and the immigrant visa application.

Priority Date:

The priority date is an important factor in determining the waiting time for the parents to receive an immigrant visa. The priority date is the date when the I-130 petition was filed, and it determines the parent’s place in line for an available visa number. If the priority date is current, meaning there are enough visas available for the parents’ category, the visa application process can proceed more quickly.

Humanitarian Parole:

In some cases, a green card holder may request humanitarian parole for their parents, which allows them to enter the United States temporarily for urgent reasons. This process is generally used when the parents face significant hardship in their home country, such as medical emergencies or other life-threatening situations. Humanitarian parole is not a permanent solution and does not lead to a green card or citizenship.

Eligibility and Requirements:

Both family-based immigration and humanitarian parole have specific eligibility requirements. The parents must meet certain criteria, such as proving their relationship to the green card holder and demonstrating that their presence in the United States is in the public interest. Additionally, the green card holder must demonstrate that they can financially support their parents during their stay in the United States.

In conclusion, a green card holder can invite their parents to the United States through family-based immigration or humanitarian parole. However, the process can be complex and may require the assistance of an immigration attorney. It is essential for green card holders to understand the laws and regulations governing the admission of their parents to ensure a smooth and successful application.