Family is at the heart of U.S. immigration law. For many immigrants, the ultimate goal is to reunite with loved ones and build a life together in the United States. At U.S. Immigration Law Group (USILG), our Santa Ana immigration lawyers and Orange County immigration attorneys have helped countless families successfully navigate the complex process of bringing parents or children to the U.S. legally.
Whether you are a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, or currently applying for a green card, it’s important to understand your options, eligibility, and the steps involved.
Bringing a Parent to the U.S.
Who Can Petition for a Parent?
Only U.S. citizens aged 21 or older can petition for their parents to immigrate to the United States. Lawful permanent residents (green card holders) cannot file for a parent.
Steps to Petition for a Parent
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File Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative – This establishes your relationship.
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Submit Proof of the Parent-Child Relationship – Birth certificates, adoption records, or other official documents.
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Consular Processing or Adjustment of Status – If your parent is abroad, they will go through consular processing. If they are already in the U.S., they may apply for adjustment of status.
A family immigration lawyer in Santa Ana can help ensure your petition is properly documented to avoid delays or denials.
Bringing a Child to the U.S.
Who Can Petition for a Child?
Both U.S. citizens
and lawful permanent residents
can petition for their children.
However, eligibility and wait times depend on:
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The child’s age (under or over 21)
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Marital status (married or unmarried)
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The petitioner’s immigration status (citizen or green card holder)
Steps to Petition for a Child
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File Form I-130 with supporting documentation.
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Provide Proof of the Parent-Child Relationship – Birth certificates, adoption decrees, or DNA evidence if required.
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Complete the Visa Process – Either consular processing or adjustment of status depending on where the child resides.
Understanding “Immediate Relative” vs. “Family Preference” Categories
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Immediate Relatives: Parents of U.S. citizens, unmarried children under 21 of U.S. citizens. No visa backlog—processing is generally faster.
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Family Preference: Adult children of U.S. citizens, married children, and children of green card holders. These categories have annual caps, which can mean long wait times.
A Santa Ana immigration attorney can help you determine your category and provide an accurate timeline.
Common Challenges in Parent & Child Petitions
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Missing or incorrect documentation
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Long wait times in family preference categories
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Complications from prior immigration violations or inadmissibility issues
In some cases, our immigration waiver attorneys at USILG Santa Ana can help file I-601 waivers or other relief options.
Why Choose U.S. Immigration Law Group?
Our top-rated immigration lawyers in Orange County provide comprehensive immigration legal services for families, including:
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Family visa petitions for parents and children
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Adjustment of status and consular processing
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Marriage-based green cards for spouses
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Spanish-speaking immigration attorneys for bilingual assistance
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Free consultations to review your case and options
Whether you’re seeking a green card lawyer in Santa Ana or a permanent residence attorney in Southern California, our team has decades of experience helping families reunite.
Schedule Your Consultation Today
If you’re ready to bring a parent or child to the United States legally, don’t navigate the process alone. Contact U.S. Immigration Law Group today to speak with a Santa Ana immigration attorney or immigration lawyer in Orange County about your options.