Immigration Law Is All About Family

Can siblings qualify for family-based immigration?

On Behalf of | Jul 10, 2024 | Family Immigration

Family relationships are among the various ways people can qualify for visas and green cards. Most people know that spouses and children can qualify for immigration opportunities if an immediate family member is a citizen or a permanent resident. In fact, simply obtaining a visa can allow a spouse and minor children to travel with the visa holder.

Other family members could also be eligible for family-based immigration in some circumstances. For example, those living in the United States may want to share their good fortune with the people in their immediate family when they were younger. Many people want to help their parents live in the United States. Others hope to extend opportunities to their siblings.

Siblings can sometimes qualify for family-based immigration opportunities. When is someone’s brother or sister potentially eligible to legally enter the United States and secure a green card?

Siblings of citizens can qualify for green cards

The United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) maintains different rules for different immigration programs and family relationships. Individuals who want to bring siblings to the United States typically need to be citizens themselves.

The brother or sister of someone who is a natural-born or naturalized citizen can qualify for a green card. That green card allows them to stay in the United States indefinitely. It also puts them in a strong position to seek naturalization in the future. The siblings of citizens seeking entry into the United States are subject to the same background check and basic immigration requirements as anyone else. The citizen needs proof of their relationship.

Typically, this means presenting copies of both siblings’ birth certificates to show that they have at least one parent in common. There are rules that can benefit those with step-siblings, half-siblings and adopted siblings as well. They also have to present evidence of their citizenship. They must also submit a petition for an alien relative to the USCIS. For some people, a desire to reunite with siblings and other family members might inspire them to pursue naturalized citizenship.

Learning more about family-based immigration can help people share their good fortune with family members they love. Those with siblings living abroad can potentially help them enter the United States with a green card.