How Long Does It Take for Parents to Get a Green Card?
Obtaining a green card for parents can be a complex and lengthy process. The duration it takes for parents to receive a green card varies depending on several factors, including the type of green card application, the country of origin, and the current demand for visas. This article aims to provide an overview of the factors that influence the processing time and offer some insights into the process.
1. Immediate Relative Petition
The most straightforward way for parents to obtain a green card is through an immediate relative petition. U.S. citizens can file Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, on behalf of their parents. This petition is typically processed within 6 to 12 months. However, this timeline can vary depending on the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) caseload and the country of origin.
2. Family Preference Categories
Parents who are not immediate relatives of U.S. citizens may fall under the family preference categories. These categories are divided into preference levels, with preference 1 being the most favorable. The processing time for family preference categories can range from several years to over a decade, depending on the preference level and the demand for visas.
– Preference 1: Unmarried sons and daughters of U.S. citizens are processed within 1 to 3 years.
– Preference 2A: Spouses and unmarried children under 21 years of age of lawful permanent residents are processed within 2 to 3 years.
– Preference 2B: Unmarried sons and daughters of lawful permanent residents are processed within 3 to 8 years.
– Preference 3: Married sons and daughters of U.S. citizens are processed within 3 to 10 years.
– Preference 4: Brothers and sisters of U.S. citizens are processed within 10 to 15 years.
3. Visa Availability
The availability of visas also plays a significant role in the processing time. Each year, the U.S. government allocates a limited number of visas for each country of origin. When the demand for visas exceeds the available quota, a visa backlog occurs, leading to longer processing times. The visa availability is determined by the Diversity Visa Lottery and the annual per-country limit set by Congress.
4. Application Delays
Several factors can cause delays in the green card application process, including incomplete applications, missing documents, and errors in the forms. It is crucial for applicants to ensure that their applications are accurate and complete to avoid unnecessary delays.
In conclusion, the time it takes for parents to get a green card can vary significantly depending on the type of application, preference category, visa availability, and the overall processing time at USCIS. While immediate relative petitions can be processed within 6 to 12 months, family preference categories can take several years to decades. It is essential for applicants to stay informed about the current processing times and prepare accordingly.
