Family ties can open doors to living in the United States. You might wonder if siblings can sponsor each other for immigration right now. The answer is yes, but there are important rules and timelines you need to know.
Understanding sibling sponsorship
As a U.S. citizen, you have the ability to sponsor your brother or sister for a green card. However, green cards for siblings fall under the “family fourth preference” category, which means fewer visas are available each year compared to other family categories. Because of this, the process usually takes many years. You must be at least 21 years old and a U.S. citizen to begin the sponsorship process.
How the process works
To sponsor a sibling, you start by filing Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative. Along with the form, you must submit proof of your citizenship and evidence of your relationship, like birth certificates showing you share at least one common parent. Once the petition gets approved, your sibling enters a waiting line based on their “priority date,” which depends on the filing date. Visa availability depends on your sibling’s home country, and waiting times can stretch over a decade for some countries.
Important things to consider
Sponsoring a sibling requires careful planning because of the long wait times. Your sibling cannot live or work in the United States just because a petition has been filed. They must wait until their priority date becomes current before applying for a green card. In the meantime, you both must keep your information updated with immigration authorities to avoid delays. Marriage, age, and other life changes could affect eligibility.
While sponsoring a sibling is possible, it demands patience and strong documentation. Understanding each step helps you avoid mistakes that could cause even longer delays. Staying organized and planning ahead can make the waiting time feel a little smoother for you and your loved ones.