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LM

Lilit Mkrtchyan

Posted 13 days ago

User
Now that I am a green card holder living in the United States, I want to help a close family friend from Armenia move here to live with me. I’m unsure how my status affects what I can do and whether there are specific immigration pathways for non-family members. What steps should I take, and what should someone in my situation understand about sponsoring a friend to legally reside in the U.S.?
3 Responses
L

Lalita Chakraborty

Answered 13 days ago

User

As a green card holder, you cannot sponsor non-family members for permanent residency. U.S. immigration law limits family-sponsored petitions to certain relatives like spouses, children, and siblings. Friends do not qualify, so other pathways must be considered.

N

Nkosinathi Ndlovu

Answered 13 days ago

User

Your friend could explore employment-based visas, student visas, or other temporary visas that allow them to live and work or study in the U.S. Each category has specific eligibility requirements and documentation. Consulting an immigration attorney can help determine the best route.

M

Mahboubeh Mahboubeh

Answered 13 days ago

User

It’s important to avoid informal arrangements that might be seen as circumventing the law. Helping with housing or support is fine, but official immigration sponsorship for friends is not permitted. Proper legal guidance ensures you and your friend remain compliant with U.S. immigration rules.


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