How to Bring Your Parents to California: Family Sponsorship
Bringing your parents to California can be a rewarding experience, allowing families to reunite and spend quality time together. One of the most common pathways for doing this is through family sponsorship. This guide outlines the steps you'll need to take to successfully sponsor your parents and navigate the legal requirements.
Understanding Family Sponsorship
Family sponsorship is a process that allows U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents (green card holders) to bring certain family members to the United States. As a U.S. citizen, you can sponsor your parents for a green card, helping them establish permanent residency in California.
Eligibility Criteria
Before you start the sponsorship process, make sure you meet the following eligibility criteria:
- You must be a U.S. citizen, at least 21 years old.
- Your parents must be at least 18 years old and qualify as immediate relatives.
- Your parents should not have any inadmissibility issues, such as certain criminal convictions or health-related problems.
The Sponsorship Process
The process of sponsoring your parents involves several steps:
1. File Form I-130
The first step is to file a Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, for each parent. This form establishes the familial relationship and is necessary for the immigration process. You will need to provide proof of your citizenship and your relationship with your parents, which could include:
- Birth certificate
- Marriage certificate (if applicable)
- Any relevant divorce decrees or death certificates
2. Wait for Approval
Once you've submitted the I-130 petition, it will be reviewed by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). If approved, they will forward your petition to the National Visa Center (NVC).
3. Pay Fees
At the NVC stage, you will need to pay the required fees. This typically includes the Immigrant Visa Application Processing Fee and an Affidavit of Support Fee. Keep track of these payments and ensure you pay them promptly.
4. Prepare Documentation
Your parents will need to prepare various documents for their visa interview. This documentation often includes:
- A valid passport
- Birth certificate
- Police clearance certificates
- Medical examination results
5. Attend the Visa Interview
After the documents are prepared, your parents will face an interview at the U.S. embassy or consulate in their home country. During this interview, consular officers will assess their eligibility for an immigrant visa based on the information provided.
Bringing Parents to California
Once your parents receive their visas, they can enter the United States and, specifically, California. It's essential that they comply with their visa conditions and maintain their legal status after arriving.
Post-Arrival Steps
After your parents have safely arrived in California, you can help them apply for a Social Security number and assist them in familiarizing themselves with the local community. This support will make their transition smoother and help them feel at home.
Conclusion
Sponsoring your parents to come to California can be a fulfilling journey, strengthening family bonds and enriching your life. By understanding the sponsorship process and preparing accordingly, you can help ensure a successful transition for your parents as they begin their new chapter in the Golden State.