Green Cards for Siblings of U.S. Citizens

If you are a U.S. citizen, you may be eligible to apply for a green card for your siblings to become legal permanent residents of the United States. Unfortunately, legal permanent residents (green card holders) cannot petition for their siblings. The process involves filing Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, and, depending on whether your siblings are inside or outside the U.S., either Adjustment of Status or Consular Processing. Note that there are numerical limits and long waiting periods for sibling-based green card applications, making it rare for siblings to be eligible to adjust status within the U.S. Most siblings will need to wait outside the U.S. for their cases to be approved.

Common Questions and Answers About Green Cards for Siblings of U.S. Citizens

What are the requirements for applying for a green card for my siblings?

To qualify for a sibling-based green card, the U.S. citizen must file Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative. The U.S. citizen must be at least 21 years old. Both siblings must provide proof of their relationship, such as birth certificates showing at least one common parent. If the siblings are in the U.S., they will also file Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status. If the siblings are outside the U.S., they will go through Consular Processing.

What is the difference between Adjustment of Status and Consular Processing?

• Adjustment of Status: This process is for siblings who are already in the United States and are eligible to adjust their status. However, due to the long waiting periods for sibling-based green cards, it is rare for siblings to qualify for Adjustment of Status. Most siblings will need to wait outside the U.S. for their cases to be approved.
• Consular Processing: This process is for siblings who are outside the United States. Once Form I-130 is approved, the application is sent to the National Visa Center (NVC), which coordinates with the U.S. embassy or consulate in the siblings’ home country to complete the process and schedule an interview.

What evidence do I need to demonstrate my relationship with my siblings?

You should submit documents that prove your sibling relationship, such as both of your birth certificates showing at least one common parent. Additional evidence may include affidavits from family members, correspondence, and photos together.

After filing, how soon will the interview take place?

For Adjustment of Status, once USCIS approves your Form I-130, they will schedule an interview. The timing can vary significantly depending on the caseload of your local USCIS office. For Consular Processing, once Form I-130 is approved and the visa bulletin is current, the NVC will coordinate with the relevant U.S. embassy or consulate to schedule the interview, which can take several months. Keep in mind that the overall process can take several years due to the numerical limits on sibling-based green cards.

Are there financial requirements for the U.S. citizen sponsor?

Yes, the U.S. citizen must demonstrate the ability to financially support the siblings seeking a green card. This involves meeting at least 125% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines as per the Affidavit of Support (Form I-864).

What if the petitioner’s income is insufficient?

If the petitioner does not meet the income requirements, assets may be used as an alternative, or a joint sponsor who meets the income criteria may submit an Affidavit of Support on behalf of the beneficiary.

What additional forms are involved in the process?

• For Adjustment of Status, in addition to Form I-130 and Form I-485, siblings may also file Form I-765 for a work permit and Form I-131 for a travel document concurrently with their adjustment of status application.
• For Consular Processing, after the approval of Form I-130, if the visa bulletin is current, siblings will complete Form DS-260, Immigrant Visa and Alien Registration Application, and attend an interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate.

Can my siblings include other family members in their green card application?

Yes, your sibling can bring their spouse and children who are still under the age of 21.  They will be completing the Form DS-260 and will attend the interview when the time comes.

What happens if my siblings’ green card application is denied?

If your siblings’ green card application is denied, they may appeal the decision or reapply if they address the reasons for denial. It is important to consult with an immigration attorney to understand the best course of action.

How long after receiving their green card can my siblings apply for U.S. citizenship?

Siblings can apply for naturalization five years after obtaining their green card, provided they meet all other eligibility requirements.

We Can Answer Your Family Immigration Questions

At Fok Immigration Law, we have extensive experience helping families unite here in the U.S. by guiding our clients through the complexities of the U.S. immigration system. If you have any questions about the green card process for your siblings, please contact our San Jose office at 408-606-8911, or reach out to our California immigration attorneys online.