How Can I Legally Bring My Parent or Child to the U.S.?

For many families, the dream of living together in the United States is about more than convenience—it’s about stability, support, and building a future side by side. If you’re wondering how to bring your parent or child to the U.S., the process starts with understanding your immigration status and the options available to you.

If you are a U.S. citizen, you have the ability to petition for both your parents and your children. This is one of the most direct ways to reunite families under immigration law. However, there are still important requirements to meet. For example, you must be at least 21 years old to petition for a parent. For children, eligibility can depend on age and marital status of your child, which can affect both the process and the timeline.

If you are a green card holder, your options are more limited—but still meaningful. Lawful permanent residents can petition for their spouse and unmarried children. While this path can take longer due to visa availability, it remains a powerful way to create stability and bring your immediate family closer together.

The process generally begins by filing an I-130 Family Petition with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (“USCIS). The petition can be filed by mail or online. From there, the next steps depend on where your loved one is currently located and whether they qualify to complete their process inside the United States or must go through a U.S. consulate abroad. Some individuals may be eligible to adjust their status without leaving the country, while others will need to attend an interview in their home country through consular processing.

This is where things can become complicated. Immigration law is not one-size-fits-all. Prior entries, visa overstays, unlawful presence, or past immigration history can all impact eligibility and timing. Filing the wrong form, missing a step, or misunderstanding eligibility can lead to delays—or even denials—that keep families separated longer than necessary.

That’s why doing it right the first time matters. Taking a thoughtful, informed approach is part of protecting your family’s future. With the right guidance, you can avoid common pitfalls and move forward with confidence.

Reuniting your family is one of the most important steps you can take. If you’re considering petitioning for a parent or child, now is the time to understand your options and create a plan that works for your unique situation.

Call us now to schedule a consultation: (602) 586-5625. 

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Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Reading this blog does not create an attorney-client relationship with Wheeler Law.