For people in New Jersey who have come to the United States from another country, there will be a sense of relief when they have gotten their Green Card and can stay legally. However, just because they have gotten their Green Card does not mean their dealings with the immigration process is over.
Many people might also want family members to join them. If a person has a Green Card and is a permanent resident, it is possible to petition to pursue this objective. Knowing the basics is key when deciding to move forward.
Know the facts about Green Card family members coming to the United States
Once a person has their Green Card, they can petition for family members including their spouse, children under 21 if they are unmarried and unmarried sons or daughters regardless of their age. There are forms that must be filled out to petition for them to come to the United States.
In addition, the Green Card holder must show proof of their status; show that they have a qualifying relationship with documentation like a birth certificate; and show proof if there has been a legal name change of the person who is trying to come to the United States.
There are four preference categories for family-based immigration of Green Card holders. The first preference will be U.S. citizens’ adult sons and daughters who are 21 and older.
There is 2A and 2B for the second preference category. 2A is for spouses of those who have a Green Card and unmarried children of people who are permanent residents. In 2B, the unmarried adult children of permanent residents can seek to come to the United States legally. The third preference are married children of U.S. citizens regardless of their age. The fourth preference are brothers and sisters of U.S. citizens.
Immigration can be confusing
People who have secured their Green Card and want to bring family members to take advantage of the litany of opportunities to live, learn and work in the United States will be enthusiastic about doing so. Still, the process can be confusing and it is imperative to follow the rules when moving forward.
Making one mistake can sabotage the entire process and force the person to start over again. For family immigration, it is essential to know the facts and to have professional advice. This is the first step toward bringing family members to the United States legally.
