How to Bring Your Parents to the United States as a Permanent Resident

Bringing your parents to the United States to live with you can be a rewarding experience, but it's also a complex process with many legal and logistical hurdles to overcome. In this guide, we'll walk you through the step-by-step process of sponsoring your parents for a green card, from understanding eligibility requirements to navigating the visa application process.

 

It is often thought that only U.S. citizens can bring their parents to the United States, but this is a misconception. If you are a permanent resident (Green Card holder), you can invite your parents to visit you. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you through this process.

Step 1: Fill Out the Non-Immigrant Visa Application DS-160

The first step is completing a non-immigrant visa application, Form DS-160. To access the form, go to [travel.state.gov]. Ensure accurate information, as any mistakes could delay the process.

Step 2: Check the Embassy Website

After submitting the DS-160 form, visit the website of the U.S. embassy or consulate in your home country or the country where your parents live. This site will provide information on the visa application process and how to pay the visa fees.

 

Step 3: Pay the Interview Fees

The interview fees for the visitor visa must be paid before the interview date. Follow the instructions on the embassy's website to make this payment at the designated bank. Carefully following all provided instructions is crucial to avoid complications.

 

Step 4: Confirm Payment and Schedule an Appointment

Once the payment is made, return to the U.S. embassy website to update your file and confirm that the payment has been received. After this step, you can schedule an interview appointment.

Parents aged 14 to 79 must schedule an appointment, while those over 79 do not need to.

Step 5: Write an Invitation Letter

Draft an invitation letter to your parents. This letter should be written in a friendly tone, emphasizing the pleasure of hosting them rather than suggesting that they are coming to help you. Please include details about their accommodation (e.g., your address or the places you plan to visit together). Also, mention your lease agreement, a copy of your passport, and a document proving your income.

On the interview day, providing $215 to your parents to pay the visa reciprocity fee is crucial.

Inviting your parents to the United States as a permanent resident is entirely possible, even if it initially seems complicated. Following these steps and preparing all the necessary documents increases the chances of a successful visa application. Take the time to inform yourself thoroughly and complete all required procedures, and you will soon be able to enjoy precious moments with your family in the United States.