Immigration sponsorship allows a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident (green card holder) to help a qualifying family member obtain permanent residence in the United States. Understanding the process is essential because US sponsorship visa requirements, documentation, and sponsorship income requirements must be followed carefully to avoid delays or denial.
In this blog, we provide a complete explanation of the green card sponsorship process, including who can be sponsored, which forms must be completed and submitted, and what the income requirements are.
What Is Immigration Sponsorship?
Immigration sponsorship is a legal process in which a U.S. citizen or green card holder presents a petition to the U.S. government requesting permanent resident status (a green card) for an eligible family member. The sponsor also offers to financially help the immigrant so they do not depend on public assistance.
Who Can Sponsor Someone for a Green Card?
U.S. citizens may sponsor:
- Spouse
- Parents
- Children (married or unmarried)
- Brothers and sisters
Green card holders may sponsor:
- Spouse
- Unmarried children
Important: Green card holders cannot sponsor parents or siblings. Understanding eligibility is a key part of the US sponsorship visa requirements.
A Detailed Process to Follow When Sponsoring Someone
Step 1: Submit the Alien Relative Petition (Form I-130)
The first step in immigration sponsorship is filing Form I-130 with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
Purpose:
Form I-130 proves that a valid family relationship exists between the sponsor and the immigrant.
Common supporting documents include:
- Birth certificates or marriage certificates
- Proof of the sponsor’s U.S. citizenship or permanent residence
- Evidence showing the relationship is genuine
This form can be filed online or by mail with USCIS.
Step 2: Visa Availability and Approval
After the Form I-130 is approved, visa availability depends on the relationship category.
Immediate relatives of U.S. citizens:
- Spouse
- Parents
- Unmarried children under 21
There is no waiting period for visa numbers in these categories.
Family preference categories:
- Married children
- Siblings
- Relatives of green card holders
These applicants must wait for a visa number to become available, which may take several years.
Step 3: Sponsorship Income Requirements (Form I-864)
Meeting sponsorship income requirements is one of the most important US sponsorship visa requirements.
What is Form I-864?
Form I-864 (Affidavit of Support) is a legally binding contract in which the sponsor agrees to financially support the immigrant.
Income requirements:
- At least 125% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines must be earned by the sponsor.
- If the sponsor does not meet the income threshold, a joint sponsor may be used
This ensures the immigrant will not depend on government benefits after receiving a green card.
Step 4: Green Card Application Based on Location
The green card application process depends on whether the immigrant is inside or outside the United States.
If the immigrant is in the U.S.:
- File Form I-485 (Adjustment of Status)
- In some cases, Forms I-130 and I-485 can be filed together
If the immigrant is outside the U.S.:
- The case is submitted to the National Visa Center (NVC).
- The immigrant completes consular processing at a U.S. embassy or consulate
Both options are standard parts of immigration sponsorship.
Step 5: Medical Examination and Interview
Before final approval:
- The immigrant must complete a medical exam with an authorized physician
- Attend an interview with USCIS or a U.S. consular officer
The interview verifies documents, relationship details, and eligibility. If everything is in order, the green card is approved.
Key Things to Remember
- Immigration sponsorship is limited to eligible family members
- Income requirements must be met and properly documented
- Sponsorship creates a legal financial obligation
- Applications that are incorrect or incomplete can be delayed or rejected.
Wrapping Up
Sponsoring someone for a green card is a structured and rule-based process. By understanding the immigration sponsorship process, following US sponsorship visa requirements, and meeting the required income standards, sponsors can help their family members obtain permanent residence successfully. However, a non-professional can still make any mistake during the document, and there comes the assistance of a specialized green card attorney.
If you need guidance with any part of the green card sponsorship process, the experienced attorneys at Immigration Vision are here to help. Our team can review your eligibility, ensure all sponsorship requirements for a US visa are met, and guide you through each step with clarity and confidence.
FAQs About Sponsoring Someone for a Green Card
1. What are the requirements to sponsor someone for a green card?
You must be a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident, have a qualifying family relationship, meet sponsorship income requirements, and submit required USCIS forms and documents.
2. How long does it take to sponsor someone for a green card?
Processing time depends on the relationship category and visa availability. Immediate relatives of U.S. citizens generally face shorter wait times, while family preference categories may take several years.
3. What are the sponsorship income requirements for a US visa?
Sponsors must earn at least 125% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines or use a qualified joint sponsor if income is insufficient.
4. What qualifies someone to be a sponsor?
A sponsor must be at least 18 years old, live in the United States, be a U.S. citizen or green card holder, and agree to financially support the immigrant.
5. Can an immigration lawyer help with the green card sponsorship process?
Yes. An experienced immigration attorney at Immigration Vision can help you understand US sponsorship visa requirements, prepare and review required forms, ensure sponsorship income requirements are met, and guide you through each step of the green card sponsorship process to help avoid delays or errors.
