PARENT VISA
Permanent Residency Options for Reuniting with Family in the U.S.
About the Parent Visa
Parent visas allow eligible parents of U.S. citizens to live permanently in the United States. These visas support family reunification, enabling parents to join their children, access healthcare (with private insurance), and enjoy long-term residency rights depending on the visa category.
Advantages
- Reunite with your family and live permanently in the United States.
- Eligible to apply for work authorization and Social Security benefits after residency.
- Opportunity to travel in and out of the U.S. freely after obtaining Green Card.
- Pathway to U.S. citizenship after meeting residency requirements.
Requirements
- Must be sponsored by a child who is a U.S. citizen and at least 21 years old.
- Sponsor must meet financial support requirements (Affidavit of Support – Form I-864).
- Meet health and character requirements, including medical exams and background checks.
- Must intend to live in the U.S. permanently and maintain lawful status.
Visa Options at a Glance
| Visa Type | Subclass(es) | Duration / PR Pathway | Key Points |
| Non‑Contributory (Permanent) | 103, 804 | Permanent | Low application fee, very long queues, and processing may take decades |
| Contributory (Temp → PR) | 173 → 143; 884 → 864 | Temporary then permanent | Faster processing (~12-14 years), high cost (>$45,000), and payments can be split |
| Temporary Sponsored Parent | 870 | Up to 5 years | No Balance of Family Test, cap on applications, does not lead to PR, and no Medicare access. |
Application Process
1
Check eligibility
Confirm sponsor is a U.S. citizen aged 21 or older and meets financial income threshold.
2
Prepare documents
Identity, relationship proof, birth certificates, medical exams, and Form I-864 Affidavit of Support.
3
File petition
Sponsor files Form I-130 with USCIS to begin the process.
4
Visa processing
Case progresses through the National Visa Center (NVC) and U.S. consulate for interview.
5
Visa outcome
Green Card granted upon approval and entry into the United States.