A U.S. citizen who is at least 21 years old can sponsor their parents for a green card. Parents are considered immediate relatives and do not wait in line for a visa number to become available.

But did you know a U.S. citizen can also sponsor a step-parent for a green card? In order for this occur the marriage that created the step-parent relationship must have been created before the U.S. citizen child turned 18 years of age. Our Silver Spring MD immigration lawyers are well versed in all matters regarding the immediate family sponsorship process and can help you.

But what if the U.S. citizen’s biological parent divorces the step- parent? Can the U.S. citizen still sponsor the step-parent for a green card? The answer is yes. IF the U.S. citizen can prove that the relationship between the U.S. citizen and the step-parent has continued even after the divorce.

It must be noted, that if the U.S. citizen’s parent/ step-parent entered the U.S. legally, they can receive the green card without leaving the U.S. If the parent/step-parent is living abroad, the process will go through while in their home country.

However, if the U.S. citizens parent/ step-parent entered the U.S. illegally, they will have to return to their home country in order to receive green cards. In addition, they would have to be eligible for an unlawful presence waiver or “a pardon”.

If you have questions about sponsoring a parent or a step-parent please contact our Silver Spring MD immigration lawyers for a consultation. We will explain the process to you and see if your specific case meets all the requirements. Portner & Shure is here to assist you with the sponsoring your parent or step-parent for a green card or any other immigration matter. Contact us now.