For U.S. citizens, reuniting with siblings through immigration can be a significant goal. While the desire to bring family members to the U.S. is common, the process can be complex and requires navigating a set of specific rules.
The timeline and requirements depend on a variety of factors, including the relationship’s documentation and the sibling’s country of origin. Understanding these elements can make the difference between success and delays in the immigration process.
The petition process
To begin the process, a U.S. citizen must file Form I-130, the Petition for Alien Relative. This form establishes the relationship between the petitioner (the U.S. citizen) and their sibling. The petitioner must also provide evidence of their U.S. citizenship and proof of the sibling relationship, such as birth certificates or family records.
Once the I-130 petition is approved, the next step depends on whether the sibling is already in the United States or abroad. If the sibling is in the U.S., they may be able to adjust their status through Form I-485. If the sibling is overseas, they must go through consular processing at a U.S. embassy or consulate.
Priority dates and waiting times
One of the main challenges when sponsoring a sibling is the long waiting period. Siblings of U.S. citizens fall into the Family Preference Category, which has a limited number of available visas each year. This results in extended wait times. Depending on the sibling’s country of origin, the wait can range from several years to over a decade. Countries like Mexico, the Philippines, and India are particularly long due to high demand.
Additional requirements
As with any family-based immigration case, the U.S. citizen sponsor must also submit an affidavit of support (Form I-864) to demonstrate they can financially support their sibling once they arrive in the U.S.
The process may take time, but with careful planning and patience, a U.S. citizen can successfully sponsor their sibling for immigration.