Growing up in the U.S. after moving from Senegal as a child, I’ve always wondered about my own immigration options. Both of my parents now have green cards, but I don’t yet have one myself. Can they petition for me to get my own green card, and how long might that process take depending on my age and marital status?

Question

Zubair Qureshi · Accepted Answer

Yes, your parents can file a petition for you once they have lawful permanent resident status. If you’re under 21 and unmarried, you’ll fall under the “immediate relative” category, which is faster. If you’re older or married, the wait time can be much longer.

Sibongile Mthembu · Answer

You’ll need to file Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, through your parent. Once it’s approved, you can apply for a green card when a visa becomes available in your category. The timeline varies by country and age.

Kazuo Tanaka · Answer

If you’re under 21, your case will likely move more quickly since you’re considered a child for immigration purposes. Once your parent’s I-130 is approved, you’ll be able to adjust your status if you’re already in the U.S. legally. For those over 21, the waiting period can take several years. Keeping your case updated with USCIS helps prevent unnecessary delays.

Rokhaya Diop

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