Can Parents of Green Card Holders Travel to US Legally?

Navigating US immigration laws can be intricate, especially when it involves family. Can parents of green card holders travel to the US? Absolutely, but it’s essential to understand the specifics. TRAVELS.EDU.VN offers guidance to help you navigate this process smoothly.

Let’s explore the eligibility requirements and procedures for parents of green card holders to visit or immigrate to the United States.

1. What Are the Key Requirements for Parents of Green Card Holders to Travel to the US?

The key requirement is that a green card holder (Lawful Permanent Resident) cannot directly sponsor their parents for a green card. However, once the green card holder becomes a U.S. citizen, they can then sponsor their parents. This involves filing Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative.

While a green card holder can’t directly petition for their parents to get a green card, parents can still visit the U.S. by applying for a visitor visa. Let’s look at the various factors that play a part in this.

1.1. Understanding Family-Based Immigration

Family-based immigration allows U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents (green card holders) to sponsor certain family members for permanent residency. According to the USCIS, U.S. citizens can sponsor their parents, spouses, children (married or unmarried), and siblings. Green card holders, however, can only sponsor their spouses and unmarried children.

1.2. The Limitation for Green Card Holders

Green card holders cannot directly sponsor their parents for a green card. This is a significant distinction. The rationale behind this restriction is to prioritize immediate family relationships for permanent residents, focusing on spouses and children, as outlined by the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA).

1.3. The Pathway to Sponsorship: Becoming a U.S. Citizen

The key to sponsoring parents lies in becoming a U.S. citizen. Once a green card holder naturalizes and becomes a U.S. citizen, they gain the ability to petition for their parents to receive a green card. This involves a few steps.

1.4. Steps to Sponsorship After Naturalization

File Form I-130: The U.S. citizen child must file Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, with the USCIS. This form establishes the familial relationship between the petitioner (the U.S. citizen) and the beneficiary (the parent).
Eligibility Requirements: The U.S. citizen must be at least 21 years old to petition for their parents.
Waiting for Approval: After filing Form I-130, you must wait for the USCIS to approve the petition. Processing times vary depending on the USCIS office and the volume of applications they are handling.
Immigrant Visa Processing: Once the I-130 is approved, if the parent is outside the U.S., the case is forwarded to the National Visa Center (NVC). The NVC will instruct the parent on how to apply for an immigrant visa.
Adjustment of Status: If the parent is already in the U.S. legally, they may be eligible to apply for Adjustment of Status (Form I-485) to become a permanent resident without having to return to their home country. This process can occur concurrently with the I-130 filing if the parent is eligible.

1.5. Important Documentation

When petitioning for parents, you will need to provide several documents to prove the relationship and eligibility. These typically include:

Birth Certificate: To prove the parent-child relationship.
Marriage Certificate: If there have been any name changes due to marriage.
U.S. Passport or Naturalization Certificate: To prove the petitioner’s U.S. citizenship.
Divorce Decrees: If either party has been divorced, to prove the termination of previous marriages.
Affidavit of Support (Form I-864): To demonstrate that the U.S. citizen can financially support their parents.

2. What Are the Types of Visas Available for Parents to Visit the US?

For parents of green card holders who wish to visit the U.S. temporarily, the B-1/B-2 visitor visa is the most common option. This visa allows for tourism, visiting family, or medical treatment. According to the U.S. Department of State, applicants must demonstrate that they have no intention of immigrating to the U.S. and that they have sufficient ties to their home country.

2.1. B-1/B-2 Visitor Visa

The B-1/B-2 visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows foreign nationals to enter the U.S. for a temporary period. It is often used for tourism, visiting family, attending conferences, or seeking medical treatment. For parents of green card holders, this visa can provide an opportunity to visit their children in the U.S.

2.2. Eligibility Requirements for B-1/B-2 Visa

To be eligible for a B-1/B-2 visa, applicants must demonstrate the following:

Temporary Visit: The applicant must intend to stay in the U.S. for a temporary, specific period.
Purpose of Visit: The purpose of the visit must align with permitted activities, such as tourism or visiting family.
Sufficient Funds: The applicant must have sufficient funds to cover their expenses during their stay in the U.S.
Ties to Home Country: The applicant must demonstrate strong ties to their home country, such as family, employment, or property, which will compel them to return.
No Intent to Immigrate: The applicant must convince the consular officer that they have no intention of immigrating to the U.S.

2.3. Application Process for B-1/B-2 Visa

Complete the Online Application (DS-160): The first step is to complete the DS-160 form online. This form collects detailed information about the applicant, including their personal background, travel history, and purpose of visit.
Pay the Visa Application Fee: After completing the DS-160 form, the applicant must pay the non-refundable visa application fee.
Schedule an Interview: Applicants are typically required to attend an interview at the U.S. embassy or consulate in their home country. The interview is a crucial part of the application process, where the consular officer assesses the applicant’s eligibility and intentions.
Prepare Supporting Documents: Applicants should gather and prepare supporting documents to demonstrate their eligibility. These documents may include:
- Passport valid for at least six months beyond the intended stay in the U.S.
- DS-160 confirmation page
- Visa application fee payment receipt
- A letter of invitation from the green card holder child
- Evidence of ties to the home country, such as property deeds, bank statements, and employment letters
- Proof of funds to cover expenses during the visit

2.4. Tips for a Successful Visa Interview

The visa interview is a critical step in the B-1/B-2 visa application process. Here are some tips to help applicants succeed:

Be Honest and Consistent: Provide honest and consistent answers to all questions. Inconsistencies can raise red flags and lead to visa denial.
Clearly State the Purpose of Visit: Clearly and concisely explain the purpose of the visit. Emphasize the temporary nature of the trip and the intention to return home.
Demonstrate Ties to Home Country: Provide strong evidence of ties to the home country. This can include documents showing property ownership, employment, family responsibilities, and other commitments.
Be Prepared to Answer Questions About Finances: Be prepared to answer questions about how the visit will be funded. If the green card holder child is providing financial support, provide evidence of their ability to do so.
Remain Calm and Respectful: Maintain a calm and respectful demeanor throughout the interview. Answer questions politely and avoid arguing with the consular officer.

2.5. Common Reasons for Visa Denial

Visa applications can be denied for various reasons. Some common reasons include:

Insufficient Ties to Home Country: Failure to demonstrate strong ties to the home country is a primary reason for visa denial. Consular officers need to be convinced that the applicant will return after their temporary stay.
Concerns About Immigration Intent: If the consular officer suspects that the applicant intends to immigrate to the U.S., the visa will likely be denied.
Incomplete or Inaccurate Information: Providing incomplete or inaccurate information on the DS-160 form can lead to visa denial.
Criminal History: A criminal history can raise concerns about the applicant’s admissibility to the U.S.
Previous Visa Violations: If the applicant has previously violated U.S. immigration laws, such as overstaying a visa, it can negatively impact their chances of getting a new visa.

3. What Are the Restrictions and Limitations for Parents Visiting on a Visa?

Parents visiting on a B-1/B-2 visa have several restrictions. They cannot work, study, or engage in any activities that are not permitted under the terms of their visa. Overstaying the visa can have severe consequences, including deportation and difficulty obtaining future visas.

3.1. Scope of Permitted Activities

The B-1/B-2 visa allows foreign nationals to engage in specific activities while in the U.S. These activities generally include:

Tourism and Recreation: Visiting tourist attractions, sightseeing, and engaging in recreational activities.
Visiting Family and Friends: Spending time with relatives and friends who are residing in the U.S.
Medical Treatment: Seeking medical consultation or treatment, provided that arrangements are made in advance and sufficient funds are available.
Attending Conferences and Seminars: Participating in business or professional conferences, seminars, or workshops, provided that the visitor is not being paid by a U.S. source.

3.2. Prohibited Activities

Several activities are strictly prohibited under the B-1/B-2 visa. These include:

Employment: Engaging in any form of paid employment or working for a U.S. employer, even on a temporary basis.
Studying: Enrolling in a degree program or engaging in full-time academic studies.
Immigrant Intent: Taking any actions that indicate an intention to permanently reside in the U.S.
Unauthorized Activities: Engaging in any activities that violate U.S. laws or regulations.

3.3. Maintaining Non-Immigrant Status

Visitors entering the U.S. on a B-1/B-2 visa must maintain their non-immigrant status throughout their stay. This means complying with all terms and conditions of the visa and avoiding any actions that could be construed as an intent to immigrate.

3.4. Consequences of Overstaying a Visa

Overstaying a visa can have serious consequences for future visa applications and immigration prospects. According to U.S. immigration law:

Automatic Visa Cancellation: If a visitor overstays their visa by more than 180 days but less than one year, they may be barred from re-entering the U.S. for three years.
Long-Term Ban: If a visitor overstays their visa by one year or more, they may be barred from re-entering the U.S. for ten years.
Deportation: Overstaying a visa can lead to deportation from the U.S.
Difficulty Obtaining Future Visas: Overstaying a visa can make it difficult to obtain future visas, as it raises concerns about the applicant’s compliance with U.S. immigration laws.

3.5. Extending a B-1/B-2 Visa

Visitors who need to extend their stay in the U.S. may apply for an extension of their B-1/B-2 visa. To apply for an extension, visitors must:

File Form I-539: Complete and submit Form I-539, Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status, to USCIS.
File Before Expiration Date: File the application before the expiration date of their current visa.
Provide Valid Reasons: Provide valid reasons for requesting an extension, such as ongoing medical treatment or unforeseen circumstances.
Demonstrate Continued Eligibility: Demonstrate that they continue to meet the eligibility requirements for the B-1/B-2 visa.

3.6. Limitations on Changing Status

While it is possible to change from a B-1/B-2 visa to another non-immigrant visa in some cases, it is generally difficult to change to an immigrant status (such as a green card) while in the U.S. on a visitor visa. Doing so requires a valid basis for the change and can raise concerns about the visitor’s original intent when entering the U.S.

4. Can Parents of Green Card Holders Adjust Status While in the US?

Generally, parents of green card holders cannot adjust their status while in the U.S. unless the green card holder becomes a U.S. citizen. Once the green card holder naturalizes, they can sponsor their parents, who may then be eligible to adjust their status if they are already in the U.S. legally.

4.1. The Concept of Adjustment of Status

Adjustment of Status is a process that allows eligible foreign nationals who are already in the U.S. to apply for permanent residency (a green card) without having to return to their home country for visa processing. This process is governed by Section 245 of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA).

4.2. Eligibility Requirements for Adjustment of Status

To be eligible for Adjustment of Status, applicants must meet several requirements, including:

Physical Presence in the U.S.: The applicant must be physically present in the U.S. at the time of filing the application.
Admissible to the U.S.: The applicant must be admissible to the U.S., meaning they must not have any factors that would make them ineligible for a green card, such as a criminal record or immigration violations.
Legal Entry: The applicant must have entered the U.S. legally, typically with a valid visa.
Eligible Immigrant Category: The applicant must have an eligible immigrant category, such as being the immediate relative of a U.S. citizen or having an approved employment-based petition.

4.3. The Role of U.S. Citizenship

The ability to adjust status is significantly impacted by the petitioner’s citizenship status. As previously mentioned, green card holders can only sponsor their spouses and unmarried children. Parents of green card holders are not eligible for Adjustment of Status unless the green card holder becomes a U.S. citizen.

4.4. Steps to Adjust Status After Naturalization

File Form I-130: The U.S. citizen child must file Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, with USCIS to establish the familial relationship with their parent.
Form I-485 Filing: Once the I-130 is approved, the parent can file Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, if they are physically present in the U.S. and meet all eligibility requirements.
Concurrent Filing: In some cases, it may be possible to file Forms I-130 and I-485 concurrently, meaning at the same time. This can expedite the process.

4.5. Important Considerations

Maintaining Legal Status: It is crucial for the parent to maintain legal status in the U.S. while the Adjustment of Status application is pending. This may involve extending their non-immigrant visa or obtaining another valid status.
Public Charge Rule: The public charge rule may impact the eligibility of parents applying for Adjustment of Status. This rule assesses whether an applicant is likely to become primarily dependent on the government for subsistence.
Waivers: In some cases, waivers may be available to overcome certain inadmissibility issues. For example, if a parent has a minor criminal record, they may be able to apply for a waiver to overcome this issue.

4.6. Required Documentation for Adjustment of Status

Applicants must gather and submit various documents to support their Adjustment of Status application. These typically include:

Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status
Copy of Form I-797, Approval or Receipt Notice for Form I-130
Copy of passport and visa
Copy of Form I-94, Arrival/Departure Record
Birth certificate
Marriage certificate (if applicable)
Police clearance certificates
Medical examination (Form I-693)
Affidavit of Support (Form I-864)

4.7. The Interview Process

As part of the Adjustment of Status process, applicants are typically required to attend an interview with a USCIS officer. During the interview, the officer will ask questions about the applicant’s background, eligibility, and intentions.

5. What is the Affidavit of Support and How Does it Affect Parents?

The Affidavit of Support (Form I-864) is a legally binding contract in which the U.S. citizen agrees to financially support their parents. This form is required to demonstrate that the parents will not become a public charge. The U.S. citizen must meet specific income requirements to qualify.

5.1. The Purpose of the Affidavit of Support

The Affidavit of Support, specifically Form I-864, is a legally binding contract between the U.S. government and the sponsor (typically the U.S. citizen child). The purpose of this form is to ensure that the sponsored immigrant (the parent) will not become a public charge, meaning they will not rely on government assistance for financial support.

5.2. Who Needs to File Form I-864?

The U.S. citizen who is petitioning for their parents to become permanent residents must file Form I-864. This requirement applies in most family-based immigration cases.

5.3. Key Obligations of the Sponsor

By signing Form I-864, the sponsor agrees to:

Provide Financial Support: Provide the sponsored immigrant with sufficient financial support to maintain an income that is at least 125% of the federal poverty guideline.
Reimburse Government Agencies: Reimburse government agencies for any means-tested public benefits that the sponsored immigrant receives.
Legal Enforceability: Understand that the Affidavit of Support is legally enforceable, and the sponsor can be sued for failing to meet their obligations.

5.4. Income Requirements

To qualify as a sponsor, the U.S. citizen must demonstrate that they meet specific income requirements. These requirements are based on the federal poverty guidelines, which are updated annually.

5.5. Using Household Income

If the U.S. citizen’s individual income is not sufficient to meet the income requirements, they may be able to use household income, including the income of other household members who are willing to sign Form I-864A, Contract Between Sponsor and Household Member.

5.6. Joint Sponsors

If the U.S. citizen cannot meet the income requirements, even with household income, they may need to find a joint sponsor. A joint sponsor is someone who is willing to sign Form I-864 along with the U.S. citizen and agrees to be jointly liable for supporting the sponsored immigrant.

5.7. Duration of the Obligation

The sponsor’s obligation to support the sponsored immigrant typically lasts until one of the following events occurs:

The sponsored immigrant becomes a U.S. citizen.
The sponsored immigrant has worked for 40 qualifying quarters (10 years).
The sponsored immigrant leaves the U.S. permanently.
The sponsored immigrant dies.

5.8. Enforceability of the Affidavit of Support

The Affidavit of Support is legally enforceable, and government agencies can sue the sponsor for failing to meet their obligations. Additionally, the sponsored immigrant can also sue the sponsor for failing to provide sufficient financial support.

5.9. Considerations for Parents

Public Benefits: Sponsored immigrants should be aware that receiving means-tested public benefits may have consequences for their immigration status and future eligibility for benefits.
Documentation: Parents should maintain accurate records of their income, employment, and any public benefits they receive.
Seeking Legal Advice: Parents should seek legal advice from an immigration attorney to understand their rights and obligations under the Affidavit of Support.

6. What Documents Are Needed to Sponsor Parents Once You Become a US Citizen?

Once you become a U.S. citizen, you will need to gather several documents to sponsor your parents. These include:

Form I-130: Petition for Alien Relative.
Proof of U.S. Citizenship: Such as a U.S. passport, birth certificate, or naturalization certificate.
Birth Certificate: To prove the parent-child relationship.
Marriage Certificate(s): If either you or your parent has been married.
Divorce Decree(s): If either you or your parent has been divorced.
Form I-864: Affidavit of Support, along with proof of income.

6.1. Checklist of Required Documents

When preparing to sponsor your parents for a green card, it is crucial to gather all necessary documents to support your petition. Here is a detailed checklist of the documents you will need:

Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative: This form establishes the familial relationship between you (the U.S. citizen) and your parents.
- Completed and signed Form I-130
- Filing fee (as specified by USCIS)
Proof of U.S. Citizenship: You must provide evidence of your U.S. citizenship to demonstrate your eligibility to sponsor your parents.
- Copy of your U.S. passport
- Copy of your U.S. birth certificate
- Copy of your Certificate of Naturalization
Birth Certificate: This document proves the parent-child relationship.
- Copy of your birth certificate showing your parents’ names
- If your birth certificate is not available, provide secondary evidence, such as baptismal records or affidavits
Marriage Certificate(s): If either you or your parent has been married, you must provide copies of marriage certificates to establish the legal relationship.
- Copy of your marriage certificate (if applicable)
- Copy of your parent’s marriage certificate
Divorce Decree(s): If either you or your parent has been divorced, you must provide copies of divorce decrees to show that previous marriages have been legally terminated.
- Copy of your divorce decree (if applicable)
- Copy of your parent’s divorce decree (if applicable)
Form I-864, Affidavit of Support: This form demonstrates that you can financially support your parents and that they will not become a public charge.
- Completed and signed Form I-864
- Proof of your income, such as tax returns, W-2 forms, and pay stubs
- Evidence of your assets, such as bank statements and property deeds (if using assets to meet the income requirements)
Passport Photos: You and your parents will need to provide passport-sized photos.
- Two passport-sized photos of you
- Two passport-sized photos of each of your parents
Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status (if your parents are in the U.S.): If your parents are already in the U.S. and eligible to adjust their status, they must file this form.
- Completed and signed Form I-485
- Copy of your parents’ passport and visa
- Copy of your parents’ Form I-94, Arrival/Departure Record
- Copy of your parents’ birth certificate
- Copy of your parents’ marriage certificate (if applicable)
- Copy of your parents’ divorce decree (if applicable)
- Form I-693, Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record
Additional Evidence: Depending on your specific circumstances, you may need to provide additional evidence to support your petition.
- Evidence of any name changes
- Evidence of any legal separations
- Evidence of any adoption records

6.2. Tips for Gathering Documents

Start Early: Begin gathering the required documents as soon as possible to avoid delays in the application process.
Organize Documents: Keep all documents organized in a binder or folder to make it easier to locate them when needed.
Make Copies: Make copies of all documents and keep the originals in a safe place.
Translate Documents: If any of your documents are not in English, you must provide certified translations.
Seek Legal Advice: Consult with an immigration attorney for guidance on gathering and preparing the necessary documents.

7. What Happens After the Petition is Approved?

After the I-130 petition is approved, if your parents are outside the U.S., the case will be sent to the National Visa Center (NVC). The NVC will then guide them through the immigrant visa application process. If your parents are in the U.S., they can file Form I-485 to adjust their status to permanent resident.

7.1. NVC Processing for Parents Outside the U.S.

Case Transfer to NVC: Once the I-130 petition is approved by USCIS, the case is transferred to the National Visa Center (NVC).
NVC Fee Bills: The NVC will send fee bills to the applicant (your parents) and the petitioner (you) for the Affidavit of Support and the immigrant visa application.
Affidavit of Support Documentation: You will need to submit the Affidavit of Support documentation to the NVC, including Form I-864, tax returns, and proof of income.
Immigrant Visa Application: Your parents will need to complete the online immigrant visa application (DS-260) and submit it to the NVC.
Civil Documents: Your parents will need to gather civil documents, such as birth certificates, marriage certificates, and police certificates, and submit them to the NVC.
Document Review: The NVC will review all submitted documents to ensure they are complete and accurate.
Interview Scheduling: Once the NVC has reviewed and approved all documents, they will schedule an interview for your parents at the U.S. embassy or consulate in their home country.

7.2. Adjustment of Status for Parents Inside the U.S.

Filing Form I-485: If your parents are already in the U.S. and eligible to adjust their status, they can file Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, with USCIS.
Concurrent Filing: In some cases, you may be able to file Forms I-130 and I-485 concurrently, meaning at the same time.
Biometrics Appointment: Your parents will need to attend a biometrics appointment to provide fingerprints and photographs.
Medical Examination: Your parents will need to undergo a medical examination by a USCIS-approved doctor and submit Form I-693, Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record.
Interview with USCIS: Your parents will need to attend an interview with a USCIS officer, who will ask questions about their eligibility for adjustment of status.

7.3. The Immigrant Visa Interview

The immigrant visa interview is a crucial step in the process. Here are some tips to help your parents succeed:

Prepare Thoroughly: Review all submitted documents and be prepared to answer questions about their background, eligibility, and intentions.
Be Honest and Consistent: Provide honest and consistent answers to all questions.
Dress Professionally: Dress professionally and arrive on time for the interview.
Bring All Required Documents: Bring all required documents, including their passport, visa, and any other documents requested by the NVC.
Remain Calm and Respectful: Maintain a calm and respectful demeanor throughout the interview.

7.4. After the Interview

After the interview, the consular officer will make a decision on the immigrant visa application. If the application is approved, your parents will receive their immigrant visa and can travel to the U.S. If the application is denied, they will receive a written explanation of the reasons for the denial.

7.5. Entering the U.S. as a Permanent Resident

Travel to the U.S.: Your parents must enter the U.S. within the validity period of their immigrant visa.
Admission to the U.S.: Upon arrival at the U.S. port of entry, your parents will be inspected by a Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer, who will determine whether they are admissible to the U.S.
Green Card Arrival: After being admitted to the U.S., your parents will receive their green card in the mail within a few weeks.

7.6. Seeking Legal Advice

Consult with an immigration attorney for guidance on preparing for the immigrant visa interview and navigating the process of entering the U.S. as a permanent resident.

8. What Are Some Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying?

Common mistakes include submitting incomplete forms, failing to provide required documents, and not demonstrating sufficient ties to the home country. These mistakes can lead to delays or denials. travels.edu.vn can help you avoid these errors with expert guidance.

8.1. Common Mistakes in Form Completion

Incomplete Forms: Failing to complete all sections of the required forms, such as Form I-130 and Form I-485, can lead to delays or rejection of the application.
Inaccurate Information: Providing inaccurate or inconsistent information on the forms can raise red flags and lead to further scrutiny or denial.
Missing Signatures: Forgetting to sign the forms can invalidate the application.
Illegible Handwriting: Using illegible handwriting can make it difficult for USCIS to process the forms.
Using Old Form Versions: Using outdated versions of the forms can lead to rejection.
Errors in Dates and Names: Making errors in dates of birth, names, and other personal information can cause confusion and delays.

8.2. Common Mistakes in Document Submission

Missing Required Documents: Failing to submit all required documents, such as birth certificates, marriage certificates, and divorce decrees, can lead to delays or rejection.
Submitting Poor Quality Copies: Submitting poor quality copies of documents can make it difficult for USCIS to verify the information.
Failing to Translate Documents: Not providing certified translations of documents that are not in English can lead to rejection.
Submitting Original Documents: Submitting original documents when copies are requested can result in the loss of important documents.
Inadequate Evidence of Relationship: Not providing sufficient evidence of the relationship between the petitioner and the beneficiary can lead to denial.

8.3. Common Mistakes in Financial Documentation

Insufficient Income: Not meeting the income requirements for the Affidavit of Support (Form I-864) can lead to denial.
Inadequate Proof of Assets: Not providing sufficient proof of assets can make it difficult to meet the income requirements.
Inconsistent Financial Information: Providing inconsistent financial information can raise red flags and lead to further scrutiny.
Failing to Update Financial Information: Not updating financial information to reflect current income and assets can lead to denial.
Using Incorrect Poverty Guidelines: Using outdated or incorrect poverty guidelines can result in an inaccurate assessment of income requirements.

8.4. Common Mistakes During the Interview

Lack of Preparation: Not being prepared for the interview can lead to confusion and inconsistent answers.
Inconsistent Answers: Providing inconsistent answers during the interview can raise red flags and lead to further scrutiny.
Failure to Understand Questions: Not understanding the questions being asked can result in inaccurate answers.
Providing False Information: Providing false information during the interview can lead to denial and potential legal consequences.
Being Nervous or Anxious: Being overly nervous or anxious during the interview can make it difficult to communicate effectively.

8.5. Tips to Avoid Common Mistakes

Read Instructions Carefully: Read all instructions carefully before completing the forms and gathering the required documents.
Double-Check All Information: Double-check all information to ensure it is accurate and consistent.
Gather All Required Documents: Gather all required documents and make copies for your records.
Seek Legal Advice: Consult with an immigration attorney for guidance on completing the forms, gathering documents, and preparing for the interview.
Be Organized: Keep all documents organized in a binder or folder to make it easier to locate them when needed.
Be Honest and Truthful: Always be honest and truthful when providing information to USCIS.
Stay Updated: Stay updated on any changes to immigration laws and regulations.

9. What Are the Rights and Responsibilities of Sponsored Parents in the US?

Sponsored parents have the right to live and work in the U.S. permanently. They also have the responsibility to obey U.S. laws and regulations. After meeting certain requirements, they can apply for U.S. citizenship.

9.1. Rights of Sponsored Parents

Right to Live Permanently in the U.S.: Sponsored parents have the right to live permanently in the U.S. as lawful permanent residents (green card holders).
Right to Work in the U.S.: Sponsored parents have the right to work in the U.S. without the need for additional work authorization.
Right to Attend School: Sponsored parents have the right to attend school and pursue educational opportunities in the U.S.
Right to Travel: Sponsored parents have the right to travel outside the U.S. and return, as long as they maintain their permanent resident status.
Right to Petition for Family Members: After becoming U.S. citizens, sponsored parents have the right to petition for certain family members to immigrate to the U.S.
Right to Apply for U.S. Citizenship: After meeting certain requirements, sponsored parents have the right to apply for U.S. citizenship.
Right to Due Process: Sponsored parents have the right to due process under the law, including the right to a fair hearing if they are facing deportation.
Right to Equal Protection: Sponsored parents have the right to equal protection under the law, meaning they cannot be discriminated against based on their race, ethnicity, or national origin.

9.2. Responsibilities of Sponsored Parents

Obey U.S. Laws: Sponsored parents have the responsibility to obey all U.S. laws, both federal and state.
Maintain Permanent Resident Status: Sponsored parents have the responsibility to maintain their permanent resident status by complying with all requirements, such as living in the U.S. and not committing any crimes.
Pay Taxes: Sponsored parents have the responsibility to pay taxes on their income, just like all other U.S. residents.
Register with the Selective Service: Male sponsored parents between the ages of 18 and 25 have the responsibility to register with the Selective Service.
Cooperate with Law Enforcement: Sponsored parents have the responsibility to cooperate with law enforcement officials if they are asked to provide information or assistance.
Carry Green Card: Sponsored parents have the responsibility to carry their green card with them at all times as proof of their permanent resident status.
Notify USCIS of Address Changes: Sponsored parents have the responsibility to notify USCIS of any changes