Bringing your family to live in the United States with you is a possibility if you meet certain requirements. The U.S. Department of State explains that you must be either a U.S. citizen or a lawful permanent resident to sponsor a relative coming into the country.
Family-based immigration may be for immediate relatives or family preference. Immediate relative visas require a close relationship and there is no limit on the number of them the government will issue each year. Family preference visas are for other family members, but there is a limit to the number the government will issue every year.
U.S. citizen family immigration options
If you are a U.S. citizen, you can petition to get a visa for close family. This includes your spouse and children. You may also be able to get a petition for your siblings and parents. There are sometimes restrictions, such as you can only bring unmarried children under a certain age into the country.
Lawful permanent resident family immigration options
If you are a lawful permanent resident of the United States, then you have limits on whom you may file a petition. You can only sponsor your spouse or an unmarried child to come into the country.
Responsibility
Keep in mind that whether you are a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident when you petition for a visa for a family member, you take on some responsibility for that person. You must complete specific paperwork and ensure he or she also complete the required paperwork. You must also honor restrictions and follow all immigration laws.
