Legal Question in Immigration Law in Washington

Can I sponsor step children?

I'm an American citizen married to a Malaysian. We separated (not divorced) years ago. He remained in Malaysia and had two children with a woman who deserted the family when the kids were very young. Now, he is dying and the children want to move to America with me. They are 21 and 18. Are they legally my stepchildren? My husband and I have an adult son. Could he sponsor them as half-brother and sister? I'm flying to Malaysia next week and hope he is still alive. If so, is there anything we could do for the kids before he dies to make immigration easier? Thanks so much. --name removed--


Asked on 1/28/03, 6:01 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
Lisa Seifert Seifert Law Offices

Re: Can I sponsor step children?

It seems you are the stepmother of these children, since they were less than 18 at the time of your marriage to their father. I have not looked this up in the Immigration Act. you might search on the word "stepchild." If they are, then it will be relatively easy for you to sponsor them. I do not think that your husband need do anything. Good luck on your visit. Please contact me if I can assist you.

Lisa Seifert

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Answered on 1/28/03, 12:08 pm


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