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Can I get a green card if my cousin is a US citizen?

By Isabella Little |

No provision exists under U.S. visa law to qualify for immigration to the United States on the basis of retirement. Grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins cannot file immigrant visa petitions on behalf of a relative.

Can my cousin sponsor me to live in USA?

There are two basic ways to legally assist your relatives to immigrate into the United States: 1. If your relatives live in another country, you will file an I-130 petition with USCIS. Form I-130 can be filed with a USCIS Lockbox based on the petitioner’s place of residence.

Can I move to America if I have relatives there?

You can petition to bring family members to the United States (often called “sponsoring” them) only if you are a U.S. citizen or a permanent resident (green card holder). Even then, you can bring in only those family members listed on the chart below.

How long does it take to sponsor a family member to USA?

On average, the I-130 (family sponsorship visa) filed by your sponsor takes between 6 to 12 months to be processed. The USCIS processes the petition on a first-come, first-served basis. Your sponsor can expedite the process by submitting the form as early as possible.

How long does it take to bring parents to USA?

For immediate relatives (spouse, children and parents) of U.S. citizens, there is an unlimited number of immigrant visas and approval can be obtained in approximately 5 to 9 months.

Can a u.s.citizen sponsor a cousin?

U.S. Citizen or Lawful Permanent Resident parents or U.S. Citizen siblings, or Lawful Permanent Resident spouses can also help, but the wait for that is about 4 to 12 years or so. So cousins cannot sponsor cousins. I am truly sorry. Guillermo Senmartin, Immigration Attorney

How does a relative become a US citizen?

Becoming a lawful permanent resident is a two-part process. You must file a petition for your relative (Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative) and your relative must apply for adjustment of status (using Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status) or for an immigrant visa through the Department of State.

Can a US citizen petition for a family member to become a lawful permanent resident?

U.S. Citizen Petition for an Immediate Relative to Become a Lawful Permanent Resident If you are a U.S. citizen, you may be able to petition for certain family members to become a lawful permanent resident (get their Green Card). Becoming a lawful permanent resident is a two-part process.

How to apply for an US visa for a relative?

If your relative resides abroad and we approve your Form I-130, the National Visa Center will contact your relative for additional information. Relatives in the United States who wish to complete the process of becoming a lawful permanent resident may also need to file Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status.