Introduction

For unmarried adult children of U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents (LPRs), obtaining a Green Card offers an opportunity to live, work, and thrive in the United States. This family-based immigration process allows parents to reunite with their adult children, granting them permanent residency and a pathway to U.S. citizenship. However, navigating the Green Card process can be challenging, particularly due to long wait times and extensive documentation requirements. This guide outlines everything you need to know about Green Cards for unmarried adult children of U.S. citizens and LPRs, helping you take the next steps with confidence.

What are Green Cards for Unmarried Adult Children?

Green Cards for unmarried adult children fall under specific family preference categories:

1. F1 Visa (Family First Preference): For unmarried adult children (21 or older) of U.S. citizens.
2. F2B Visa (Family Second Preference): For unmarried adult children (21 or older) of lawful permanent residents.

These visas allow adult children to join their parents in the U.S. and establish a permanent future.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for a Green Card, the following criteria must be met:

For F1 Visa Applicants:

• Must be the unmarried child of a U.S. citizen.
• Must be at least 21 years old.

For F2B Visa Applicants:

• Must be the unmarried child of an LPR.
• Must be at least 21 years old.

General Requirements:

• Provide proof of the parent-child relationship (e.g., birth certificates, adoption records).
• Maintain unmarried status throughout the application process.

Benefits of a Green Card for Unmarried Adult Children

• Permanent Residency: Live, work, and study in the U.S. indefinitely.
• Path to Citizenship: Eligible to apply for U.S. citizenship after meeting residency requirements.
• Family Reunification: Reconnect with parents and build a future in the U.S.

Step-by-Step Guide to the Green Card Process

1. File Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative): The parent (U.S. citizen or LPR) files Form I-130 with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to establish the qualifying relationship.
   • Proof of the petitioner’s U.S. citizenship or LPR status.
   • Birth certificates or other documents proving the parent-child relationship.
   • Evidence of the child’s unmarried status.
2. USCIS Reviews the Petition: Once the I-130 petition is approved, the case is forwarded to the National Visa Center (NVC) for further processing.
3. Monitor Visa Availability: The F1 and F2B categories are subject to annual numerical limits, often resulting in long wait times. The Visa Bulletin provides monthly updates on priority dates.
4. Choose Between Consular Processing or Adjustment of Status:
   • Consular Processing: For applicants outside the U.S., file DS-260 (Immigrant Visa Application) and attend an interview at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate.
   • Adjustment of Status: For applicants already in the U.S., file Form I-485 to adjust to permanent resident status.
5. Complete the Medical Examination: All applicants must undergo a medical exam with a USCIS-approved physician and submit Form I-693.
6. Attend the Green Card Interview: During the interview, the immigration officer verifies the relationship and ensures all eligibility criteria are met. Required documents include:
   • Affidavit of Support (Form I-864) to demonstrate financial stability.
   • Birth certificates and proof of the petitioner’s status.
7. Receive the Green Card: If the application is approved, the applicant will receive their Green Card, granting lawful permanent residency.

Common Challenges with Green Card Applications for Unmarried Adult Children

1. Lengthy Wait Times: The F1 and F2B categories often involve extended waiting periods due to numerical limits. Staying informed about priority dates is crucial.
2. Proving the Parent-Child Relationship: Providing clear and verifiable evidence of the relationship can be challenging in cases of adoption or name discrepancies.
3. Meeting Financial Sponsorship Requirements: The petitioner must demonstrate sufficient income to support the beneficiary. Form I-864 (Affidavit of Support) is required to ensure the applicant will not rely on public benefits.

How Larhdel Law Can Help You Succeed

• Petition Preparation: Ensuring all forms and evidence are accurate and complete.
• Visa Bulletin Monitoring: Keeping you updated on priority dates and visa availability.
• Documentation Assistance: Helping you compile strong evidence of the parent-child relationship.
• Interview Coaching: Preparing you for consular or USCIS interviews.

Contact us at 310 943 6352 for personalized support tailored to your family’s needs.

Real-Life Success Stories

• Case 1: Reuniting a Parent and Adult Child: A U.S. citizen petitioned for their adult child under the F1 category. Despite a lengthy wait time, we ensured the application was ready and acted promptly when the priority date became current, resulting in a smooth approval.
• Case 2: Resolving Financial Barriers: An LPR struggled to meet the income threshold to sponsor their child. We helped them secure a joint sponsor, enabling the application to move forward successfully.
• Case 3: Addressing Documentation Issues: A petitioner faced challenges proving their relationship with their adopted child. We assisted in gathering alternative evidence, such as court records and affidavits, leading to approval.