Green Card for Parents: What You Need to Know First
The Green Card for Parents (IR-5 Visa), also called the Parent Visa (IR-5 category), allows U.S. citizens to bring their parents to live permanently in the United States. To qualify, the sponsor must be a U.S. citizen age 21 or older, file Form I-130, and provide financial support with Form I-864.
Understanding the Parent Green Card (IR-5 Visa)
The parent green card is one of the fastest family-based immigration options because it belongs to the IR-5 immediate relative category. Unlike other visas, there are no annual limits or long backlogs, so once eligibility is proven, parents can usually complete the process more quickly.
What is an IR-5 Visa?
The IR-5 parent visa is a U.S. immigration category that grants lawful permanent resident status to the parents of U.S. citizens. It allows parents to live, work, and travel freely in the United States while enjoying the benefits of permanent residency.
IR-5 Parent Visa vs. Other Family-Based Green Cards
| Category | Who Qualifies | Annual Visa Cap | Typical Wait Time | Key Forms |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| IR-5 Parent Visa | Parents of U.S. citizens (sponsor must be age 21+) | No limit (Immediate Relative) | 12–18 months (on average) | Form I-130, I-485 (if in U.S.), or DS-260 (if abroad) |
| F2A (Spouse & Children of Green Card Holders) | Spouses and unmarried children under 21 of lawful permanent residents | ~87,934 visas per year | 2–3 years depending on demand | Form I-130 + NVC/Consular or I-485 |
| F4 (Brothers & Sisters of U.S. Citizens) | U.S. citizen’s siblings (sponsor must be 21+) | ~65,000 visas per year | 14+ years depending on country | Form I-130 + NVC/Consular Processing |
Who Is Eligible to Sponsor a Parent for a Green Card?
Not everyone can apply for a Green Card for Parents (IR-5 Visa). Both the sponsor (the U.S. citizen child) and the parent must meet certain requirements set by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
Sponsor Eligibility (U.S. Citizen Child)
To sponsor your parent, you must:
- Be a U.S. citizen (green card holders cannot sponsor parents) If you are a green card holder, check our guide on the Naturalization process to learn how to become a U.S. citizen and then apply for your parents.
- Be at least 21 years old
- Prove your relationship to your parent with valid documents (birth, adoption, or marriage records)
- Be able to provide financial support by filing Form I-864, Affidavit of Support
Parent Eligibility (Beneficiary)
Your parent may qualify if:
- They are your biological parent, adoptive parent (adoption finalized before your 16th birthday), or a stepparent (marriage to your biological parent occurred before your 18th birthday)
- They are living abroad and will apply through consular processing, or already in the U.S. with lawful entry and eligible for Adjustment of Status (Form I-485)
- They are not inadmissible under U.S. immigration law (certain medical, criminal, or immigration violations may require a waiver)
Are you a U.S. citizen missing your parents and wishing they could be with you in the U.S.? If you’re ready to bring them closer, the parent green card process can make it possible.
How to Apply for a Parent Green Card (IR-5 Visa)
Applying for a Green Card for Parents (IR-5 Visa) follows a series of steps that vary depending on whether your parent is in the U.S. or abroad. Below is a clear roadmap with practical tips to avoid delays.
Step 1: File Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative)
The first and most important step is for the U.S. citizen sponsor to file Form I-130 with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to prove the parent-child relationship.
Step 2: Apply for the Parent Green Card
Adjustment of Status (I-485)
If your parent is already in the U.S.
- Once USCIS approves Form I-130, your parent can file Form I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status). [Refer to our Form I-485 instructions for step-by-step guidance.]
- In many cases, Form I-130 and Form I-485 can be filed together (this is called concurrent filing).
- After filing, they’ll be scheduled for a biometrics appointment.
- In some cases, your parent may also need to attend an interview before USCIS makes a final decision.
Consular Processing (IR-5 Visa)
If your parent is outside the U.S.
- After USCIS approves Form I-130, your parents’ case is sent to the National Visa Center (NVC).
- Your parent will complete Form DS-260 (Immigrant Visa Application) online.
- You’ll also need to provide supporting documents, including proof of your relationship and financial records.
- Once the NVC reviews everything, your parent will be scheduled for an interview at the U.S. embassy or consulate in their home country.
Step 3: Medical Exam & Vaccinations (Form I-693)
All applicants must undergo a medical exam by a USCIS-approved civil surgeon (in the U.S.) or a panel physician (abroad).
Requirements:
- General physical exam
- TB, syphilis, and vaccination screening
- Vaccinations as required by U.S. law (MMR, Tdap, Varicella, etc.)
Common mistakes to avoid:
- Using a doctor not approved by USCIS or the embassy
- Submitting an expired Form I-693 (must be signed within 60 days before filing and valid for 2 years)
Step 4: Interview & Decision
Both Adjustment of Status and Consular Processing end with a green card interview.
If in the U.S. (USCIS office):
- Sponsor may be asked to attend
- Questions confirm relationship and financial eligibility
- Refer to our Green Card Interview Questions article for commonly asked questions
If abroad (U.S. consulate):
- Parent attends alone
- Consular officer reviews DS-260, documents, and eligibility
What to bring:
- Interview appointment notice
- Original civil documents (birth, marriage, adoption records)
- Medical exam results (sealed envelope if required)
- Financial documents (I-864 + tax returns)
- For guidance, see how to read your US Green Card to understand the information your parent will receive
Step 5: Approval & Green Card Delivery
If approved, the parent receives:
- In the U.S.: Green card by mail within weeks of approval (understanding your permanent resident card number)
- Abroad: IR-5 immigrant visa stamped in passport; green card mailed after U.S. entry
After Approval: What’s Next
- Apply for a Social Security Number (if not already issued)
- Keep your green card safe and renew it every 10 years
- Parents should avoid long absences abroad to maintain residency
Financial Sponsorship (Form I-864)
Bringing your parents to the U.S. is more than just paperwork — it’s also a promise. When you sponsor a parent for a green card, you’ll need to show the U.S. government that you can financially support them. This is done through Form I-864, Affidavit of Support.
Think of it as a commitment: you’re telling USCIS, “I will take care of my parent until they are fully settled here.”
Why Form I-864 Matters
The government wants to be sure your parent won’t need to rely on public benefits once they arrive. By signing Form I-864, you agree to support them until:
- They become a U.S. citizen, or
- They’ve worked long enough in the U.S. (40 qualifying quarters, about 10 years).
Income Requirements You Need to Meet
To qualify as a sponsor, your income must be at least 125% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines for your household size (100% if you’re active-duty military). Your household size includes:
- You
- Your dependents
- Anyone else you already support financially
- Each parent you’re sponsoring
Example: In 2025, a household of 3 needs an annual income of around $28,000. These numbers are updated every year, so always check the latest USCIS guidelines.
If Your Income Isn’t Enough
Don’t worry — you still have options:
- Use assets like savings, property, or investments to make up the difference
- Count household income from a spouse or family member living with you (Form I-864A)
- Find a joint sponsor — a U.S. citizen or green card holder willing to help share the responsibility
Supporting Documents for a Parent’s Green Card
You need to submit the documents to show the relationship between you and your parents. The exact documents you need depend on the specific situation of your parent and your relationship. Preparing these correctly helps avoid delays or Requests for Evidence (RFEs).
Below are the supporting documents required for a Parent Green Card Application:
| Sponsoring Situation | Required Documents | Notes / Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Mother | – Birth certificate showing your mother’s name- Proof of U.S. citizenship (passport or Certificate of Naturalization) | Ensure all names match exactly across documents |
| Father | – Birth certificate listing both parents’ names- Parents’ marriage certificate- Proof of U.S. citizenship | Include certified translations if documents are not in English |
| Born out of wedlock (sponsoring father) | – Proof of relationship (financial, emotional, or living arrangements) established before your 21st birthday, depending on legitimation laws | Documentation may include affidavits, school records, or financial support proof |
| Stepparent | – Your birth certificate- Natural parent’s marriage certificate to stepparent (married before your 18th birthday)- Proof that any previous marriages were legally ended, if applicable | Ensure all prior marriages are documented to prevent delays |
| Adoptive Parent | – Adoption certificate (finalized before your 16th birthday)- Proof of having lived with the adoptive parent | Include additional documents showing cohabitation if requested |
| General Tips for All Applicants | – Certified translations for any non-English documents- Clear, legible copies- Organized and labeled documents | Avoid low-quality scans; keep originals safe for the interview |
Apart from the proof documents, you need below documents to be submitted along with the respective forms.
Adjustment of Status Documents
- A copy of a valid government-issued photo ID (such as the passport’s biographic page)
- Evidence of your parent’s immigrant category, like the Form I-130 receipt notice (Form I-797) from USCIS
- Proof of lawful entry into the U.S., such as the I-94 arrival/departure record
- Completed medical exam report (Form I-693)
- Required civil documents (for example, prior marriage or divorce certificates, if relevant)
- Two recent passport-style photographs
- Form I-864, Affidavit of Support (to show financial sponsorship)
Note: Supplementary forms may be required depending on your parents’ situation. It’s always best to consult with an immigration professional to make sure the right paperwork is submitted.
Consular Processing Documents
- Form DS-260 – Completed online through the Consular Electronic Application Center (CEAC)
- Form I-864 (Affidavit of Support) – Submitted by the U.S. citizen child sponsoring the parent
- Civil documents – Such as birth certificates and, if applicable, marriage certificates
- Proof of termination of prior marriages – If you were previously married, provide evidence showing the legal end of every prior marriage
- Court and prison records – If convicted of a crime, submit a certified copy of each court and prison record, even if you later received amnesty, a pardon, or other relief
- Military records – If you served in any country’s military, provide a photocopy of your military service record
- Police certificates – From every country where you lived for more than 6 months since turning 16
- Valid, unexpired passport
- Two passport-style photographs
- Form I-130 approval notice – The Form I-797 approval notice from USCIS, forwarded to the NVC
- Proof of fee payments – Receipts for the Affidavit of Support fee and DS-260 fee paid to the NVC
- Medical exam results – Completed by a panel physician approved by the U.S. embassy or consulate
Parent Green Card Costs 2025
Applying for a Parent Green Card (IR-5 Visa) involves several government and associated costs. Understanding these helps you plan and avoid surprises.
Government Form Fees
- Form I-130 filing fee: $675 for paper filing, $625 for online filing
- Form DS-260 fee (for consular processing): $325
- USCIS Immigrant Fee (after visa approval): $235
- Form I-485 filing fee (if adjusting status in the U.S.): $1,440
(Additionally $1500 is charged when your Form I-485 is filed with or processed by the Immigration Court (as per Pub. L. 119-21)).
Associated Costs to Consider
- Medical Exam: Required for all applicants. Costs vary by location and provider.
- Translations & Certified Copies: For non-English documents. Costs vary based on document type and service provider.
- Travel Expenses: To attend consular interviews abroad or medical exams in the U.S.
- Document Procurement Fees: For obtaining birth certificates, marriage certificates, police certificates, etc.
Learn how USCIS filing fees are calculated and verify the current fees before submitting your forms.
Processing Times for Parent Green Card
Parent Green Card processing time typically ranges from 10 to 16 months. Timelines can vary depending on whether your parent is in the U.S. or abroad and on the specific USCIS or consular office handling the case.
This represents the total duration it takes for a U.S. citizen to petition for their parent and for the parent to receive lawful permanent resident status. Processing is generally faster for parents because there are no annual visa caps for Green Cards in this category. For more details on each step, you can refer to our guides on I-130 processing time, I-485 processing time, and overall Green Card processing time.
Common Issues & How to Avoid Delays
Even a small mistake in your parent’s Green Card application can result in a Request for Evidence (RFE), which delays the process by weeks or even months. Understanding the most common issues—and how to avoid them—can save you valuable time.
Top 10 RFE Triggers:
- Missing or incomplete supporting documents (birth, marriage, or adoption certificates).
- Inconsistent information across forms and documents (names, dates, spellings).
- Insufficient financial evidence for Form I-864 (income below required threshold).
- Missing tax returns or W-2s for the sponsor.
- Unclear relationship evidence (especially for stepparents or adoptive parents).
- Submitting uncertified or poor-quality document copies.
- Using a doctor not approved for the medical exam.
- Expired or improperly completed Form I-693.
- Lack of translations or uncertified translations for foreign-language documents.
- Filing fees paid incorrectly or with outdated fee amounts.
How to Prevent Delays:
- Double-check every form and supporting document before submission.
- Use certified translations for all non-English records.
- Submit IRS transcripts or recent tax returns to prove financial eligibility.
- Keep copies of everything you submit for easy reference.
If You Receive an RFE:
- Read the notice carefully—it will specify exactly what is missing.
- Respond within the deadline (usually 30–90 days).
- Include a clear cover letter and organized evidence packet.
- Consider seeking legal help for complex issues (e.g., relationship proof, income shortfalls).
Work and Travel While Waiting
If your parents are outside the U.S.
Once they enter with their immigrant visa, they won’t need to apply for a separate work permit. Their passport will be stamped at the port of entry, and this stamp will serve as temporary proof that they can work in the U.S. until their physical green card arrives.
If your parents are already in the U.S. and filing Form I-485 (Adjustment of Status)
While waiting for their green card, they can apply for permission to work and travel. This is done by submitting:
- Form I-765 (Employment Authorization Document, or “work permit”), and
- Form I-131 (Advance Parole, which allows them to travel abroad).
Having these approvals ensures they don’t feel “stuck” during the process and can continue with daily life—whether it’s working legally or visiting family overseas.
Keep in mind: If your parents have younger children (your siblings) living abroad, they cannot be included under the same petition. After your parent becomes a permanent resident, they can file a new petition for those children.
Grounds of Inadmissibility for Parents
When you apply for a green card for your parents, U.S. immigration officials will review their background to make sure they are “admissible” to the United States. In simple terms, this means your parent must not have issues in their history that would prevent them from becoming a lawful permanent resident.
Here are some of the most common reasons a parent’s application could face problems:
- Health-related issues – If your parent has a contagious disease, has not received the required vaccinations, or has a medical condition that could put others at risk.
- Criminal record – Certain crimes, especially serious or repeated offenses, can make a parent ineligible.
- Immigration history – Past visa overstays, entering the U.S. without permission, or prior deportations can create barriers.
- Fraud or misrepresentation – Using false documents or giving incorrect information on an immigration application.
- Public charge concerns – If the government believes your parent may become primarily dependent on U.S. government assistance for support. Understand the complete information on the public charge rule from our guide.
Not every issue automatically means denial. In some cases, parents may be able to apply for a waiver of inadmissibility by showing that denying them a green card would cause extreme hardship to you—their U.S. citizen child.
FAQs About the Parent Green Card (IR-5 Visa)
1. Will my parent be eligible for U.S. citizenship?
Yes. Once your parent has a green card, they may apply for U.S. citizenship through naturalization after five years of permanent residence. They must also meet other requirements, such as continuous residence, good moral character, and passing the naturalization test.
2. I am a U.S. citizen under 21 years old. Can I still sponsor my parents?
No. To sponsor a parent for a Green Card (IR-5 Visa), you must be at least 21 years old. If you are under 21, you cannot file Form I-130 for your parents yet.
3. How long can my parents stay with me in the U.S.?
Once approved, your parents receive a green card that allows them to live in the U.S. permanently. They must renew the card every 10 years, but their resident status does not expire as long as they maintain U.S. residence and follow immigration rules.
4. What does IR-5 mean on a green card?
IR-5 is the visa category code for a Parent of a U.S. citizen (age 21 or older). If you see “IR5” on a green card, it means the person obtained permanent residency through this immediate relative sponsorship category.
5. Can a parent with a green card apply for their child (over or under 21)?
Yes, but it depends on the child’s age and marital status.
1. A green card holder can petition for unmarried children under 21 (F2A category).
2. They can also petition for unmarried children over 21 (F2B category).
3. Married children must wait until the parent becomes a U.S. citizen.
6. Can parents stay in the U.S. while waiting for a green card?
It depends on how they applied:
1. If applying through Adjustment of Status (inside the U.S.), they can usually stay while the case is pending, and may also apply for work and travel permits.
2. If applying through Consular Processing, they must remain abroad until the visa is approved.
Conclusion: Bringing Your Parents to the U.S.
Sponsoring your parents for a green card is one of the most meaningful ways to reunite your family in the United States. While the process requires paperwork, financial proof, and patience, the reward is lasting — having your loved ones close, with the freedom to live and thrive here permanently.
With ImmigrationDirect, you can prepare and submit an error-free parent green card application package using our easy-to-use software. We guide you step by step, helping you avoid mistakes and giving your parents the best chance of getting a smooth approval from USCIS.
