An IR-5 visa is one of the ways to unite American citizens with their parents who are not American citizens. If you can secure this type of visa, then your parents may be able to come to the United States in short order.
In addition, immediate relative status may even lead to your parents receiving a green card or permanent citizenship. Obtaining an IR-5 visa may be the most immediate way to get your parent or parents to the U.S. An immigration attorney can help you complete the IR-5 visa application process.
The IR-5 visa is a type of “immediate relative” visa, hence the “IR” designation. There are several types of immediate relative visas. This visa specifically pertains to parents of United States citizens.
Who Qualifies for the IR-5 Visa?
The IR-5 visa is designated for parents of United States citizens who are at least 21 years old. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) explains that “immediate relatives” of American citizens include:
The IR-5 visa pertains specifically to parents of United States citizens aged 21 years or older. Therefore, if you are an American citizen aged 21 years or older and your parent is not a United States citizen (and is living outside the United States currently), then your parent may qualify for an IR-5 visa.
There are also criteria for the adult child whose parent would receive an IR-5 visa. The child must:
An immigration lawyer can inform you of any other requirements that may be necessary for an IR-5 visa.
It may seem obvious why one would apply for an IR-5 visa: to be close to their parents. However, there may be even more pressing reasons to secure an IR-5 visa for your parent(s), including:
To be clear: these circumstances are not necessary for your parent to obtain an IR-5 visa. However, such circumstances may be considered when you are seeking a visa for your parents.
The primary benefit of an IR-5 visa is that your parent can remain in the United States for the remainder of their life, so long as they abide by all conditions of the visa. Someone who successfully secures an IR-5 visa may:
Per Healthcare.gov, lawfully present immigrants may also qualify for certain benefits like medical care. However, there may be a waiting period to obtain such benefits if you or a loved one are eligible to receive them.
Applying for an IR-5 visa may involve several steps, including:
Immigration issues are generally complex, and you may face various unforeseen circumstances. Therefore, having an immigration attorney assist you could be a significant asset to your application.
Bringing a parent to the United States can have a massive positive impact on you and your mother, father, or both. Even if your loved one qualifies for an IR-5 visa on paper, the application process may be challenging.
A lawyer who handles IR-5 visa petitions can lead you through the process. Call New Frontier Immigration Law today for an initial consultation. Our attorneys for immigration and support staff speak Spanish and other languages, and we are ready to help you.
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