Legal Question in Immigration Law in California

Re: Sponsor relative to get a green card

Thank you for your question.

First of all, you are in a good position to have your sister immigrate to the United States.

Family unity is an important concept in the United States, but it only extends to immediate family relatives like your sister. However, cousin's, unlce's and the like fall outside of this circle.

In any event, that was some basic information for you to keep in mind. The types of documents that are necessary to petition for immigrating your immediate family relative is not just a single document but a set of documents and supporting paperwork. In addition, the way you fill out the paperwork can cost you valuable time and delay the process if the documents are not properly completed. Therefore, it is best for someone with experience complete the documents for you, and the best way to find out about the type of documents would be to contact the INS (www.ins.gov --I believe)

In any event, I hope that this information has been useful. If you have any questions or would like further information, please visit my firm's website at www.dba-law.com or call on me at (213) 384-2220 and ask for Katch.

Thank you

Re: Sponsor relative to get a green card

Here's additional information that the previous reply to your question does not include.

You cannot file a petition for your sister because you're not yet a US citizen. The soonest you can file for her is when you become a citizen, which you are eligible for 3 years after you became a permanent resident (because you married a US citizen).

Even then, the current waiting list in the brother-sister category is horrendous! It will take at least 12 years or more after your petition is filed before she can even immigrate to the U.S.

This is not a real good option. There are other options for her, such as employment visas, etc.

Liem Doan, Esq.