Sponsoring someone for a green card means petitioning the U.S. government to allow a foreign national to become a lawful permanent resident of the United States. Sponsorship may be based on family relationships or employment.
The process involves submitting petitions, financial documentation, and meeting strict eligibility requirements set by U.S. immigration law.
Contents
Who Can Sponsor Someone for a Green Card?
Family-Based Sponsorship
- U.S. citizens sponsoring spouses
- Parents sponsoring unmarried children
- Adult children sponsoring parents (if U.S. citizen)
- Siblings sponsoring siblings (U.S. citizens only)
- Lawful permanent residents sponsoring spouses and unmarried children
Employment-Based Sponsorship
- U.S. employers sponsoring skilled workers
- Employers sponsoring professionals with advanced degrees
- Companies sponsoring multinational managers
Eligibility depends on the specific immigrant category.
Financial Requirements
When sponsoring someone for a green card through family-based immigration, the sponsor must file Form I-864, Affidavit of Support.
- Must meet at least 125% of Federal Poverty Guidelines
- Must provide recent tax returns
- Must demonstrate sufficient income or qualifying assets
A joint sponsor may be used if income requirements are not met.
Employment-Based Sponsorship Requirements
Employers sponsoring someone for a green card may need to:
- Complete PERM labor certification (for most EB-2 and EB-3 cases)
- File Form I-140 immigrant petition
- Demonstrate ability to pay offered wage
- Comply with Department of Labor regulations
Certain categories such as EB-1 may not require labor certification.
Application Process Overview
- Step 1: File immigrant petition (Form I-130 or I-140)
- Step 2: Wait for priority date to become current
- Step 3: File Adjustment of Status (Form I-485) or complete consular processing
- Step 4: Attend biometrics and interview (if required)
- Step 5: Receive green card approval
Processing times vary depending on category and country of birth.
Legal Responsibilities of the Sponsor
When sponsoring someone for a green card, the sponsor enters a legally binding agreement with the U.S. government. This may require:
- Providing financial support if needed
- Repaying certain public benefits received by the immigrant
- Maintaining sponsorship until obligation ends
The obligation generally ends when the immigrant becomes a U.S. citizen, earns 40 qualifying work quarters, permanently leaves the U.S., or dies.
Costs Involved
- Petition filing fees
- Medical examination costs
- Adjustment of Status fees
- Attorney fees (if applicable)
Employment-based sponsors must pay certain mandatory labor certification costs.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Failing to meet income thresholds
- Submitting incomplete documentation
- Misunderstanding visa bulletin priority dates
- Not maintaining valid immigration status
Careful preparation significantly improves approval chances.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I sponsor a friend for a green card?
No. Family-based sponsorship is limited to specific qualifying relatives.
How long does the process take?
Processing times vary from months to several years depending on category and backlog.
Is sponsorship permanent?
Financial responsibility may continue until legal termination conditions are met.
Final Thoughts
Sponsoring someone for a green card is a significant legal and financial commitment. Whether based on family ties or employment, understanding eligibility requirements, documentation standards, and long-term obligations is essential before beginning the process.