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Green Card For Children

At Odunlami Law Firm, LLC , we know that facing U.S. immigration policies can seem overwhelming, but we also know that as a parent, you are determined to overcome the difficulties if it will create more opportunities for their children. Allow us to help. We understand the challenges you face, because many member of our team has their own immigration story. 

Securing a Green Card for your child is a critical step towards ensuring their stable future in the United States. We will help you fulfill the requirements to demonstrate your child’s eligibility and ensure that you avoid mistakes that could cause an application to be delayed or denied. Our aim is to enable you to succeed in reaching your goals just as we have.

What is a Green Card for Children?

A Green Card, or Permanent Resident Card, allows non-U.S. citizens to live and work permanently in the United States. For children, obtaining a Green Card is usually tied to their parents’ immigration status. The permanent immigrant visa granted to children is often a “derivative” visa because it derives from the parent’s status. There are several pathways for children to receive a Green Card, including family sponsorship, adoption, and special immigrant juvenile status (SIJS).

Eligibility Criteria

The eligibility for a child to receive a Green Card varies based on the specific pathway. Common scenarios include:

  • Family Sponsorship: If you are a U.S. citizen or a permanent resident, you can sponsor your child. Specific age and marital status criteria must be met to qualify.
  • Adoption: Children adopted abroad by U.S. citizens may qualify for a Green Card.
  • Special Immigrant Juvenile Status (SIJS): This category helps foreign children in the U.S. who have been abused, abandoned, or neglected.

Application Process

The application process can differ based on the category under which the child is applying. In many cases, it begins by filing a Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative) with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) along with appropriate supporting documentation. This form establishes the relationship between the child and the sponsoring relative. 

  • Adjustment of Status: If the child is already in the U.S., you might file Form I-485 along with the Petition to change their status to a permanent resident. This is known as concurrent filing.
  • Consular Processing: If the child is outside the U.S., it is often necessary to wait for the Petition to be processed and approved, and then the application materials will be forwarded to a U.S. embassy or consulate in the child’s country. The process will continue with collecting additional information and holding an interview at the embassy or consulate. 

Documentation Needed

The documentation required typically includes:

  • Proof of the sponsor’s U.S. citizenship or Green Card.
  • The birth certificate of the child showing the relationship to the sponsor.
  • Evidence of any legal name changes.
  • Photos and other proof of genuine relationship and ongoing contact (if applicable).

In some situations, it can be difficult to demonstrate the strength of the relationship between the parent and child, but our team understands how to prepare evidence to satisfy this requirement. 

Challenges and Considerations

The process of obtaining a green card for children can be intricate and might present challenges. Depending on the child’s country of origin and the status of the child’s parent, the child may need to wait for a visa to become available because many immigrant visas are issued in limited quantities each year. 

It is critical to ensure the forms and supporting documents required are accurate and complete. Missing information can cause an application to be set aside and this can lead to significant delays.

When a child has been adopted or is in the process of being adopted or a case involves a Special Immigrant, the process of obtaining a green card can become much more complicated. Our team is prepared to help you overcome these and other challenges. 

Why Choose Odunlami Law Firm?

Our Odunlami Law Firm, LLC team is deeply committed to assisting families in New Jersey and nationwide. We are fluent in both English and Spanish, and we provide empathetic, detailed, and efficient legal services to reduce the stress and uncertainty of immigration procedures.

Our experienced green card attorneys understand that every family’s situation is unique, and we tailor our approach to meet your specific needs. We guide you through each step of the process, ensuring you understand your rights and the requirements to undergo the immigration system successfully.

Get Professional Help Today

The process of obtaining a Green Card for your child can be daunting. However, with the proper guidance, it becomes a clear and manageable path. If you want to secure your child’s stable and promising future in the U.S., do not hesitate to reach out. Contact Odunlami Law Firm, LLC at 973-993-1900 or visit our website for professional immigration assistance. Let us help you make the process as smooth as possible.

 

Schedule a consultation with an immigration attorney and get your case started today.
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