If the child is already a U.S. citizen, the adoption does not provide you with a direct immigration pathway. Immigration law only allows U.S. citizens over 21 years old to sponsor parents. This means you would need to secure your own legal status independently until the child is old enough to petition for you.

If the child is already a U.S. citizen, the adoption does not provide you with a direct immigration pathway. Immigration law only allows U.S. citizens over 21 years old to sponsor parents. This means you would need to secure your own legal status independently until the child is old enough to petition for you.

In the U.S., adoption creates a legal parent-child relationship, but it does not change your immigration status if the child is already a citizen.

Unlike marriage to a U.S. citizen, adoption by itself does not grant you lawful permanent residence. Immigration law specifically restricts benefits that can come through adopting a U.S. citizen child.

You must pursue another immigration option such as employment, asylum, or family sponsorship from another qualifying relative. Once the adopted child turns 21, they may then file a petition for you.