

When petitioning a relative with an adoptive relationship, it’s generally best to consult with an immigration attorney.įiancé(e)s of U.S. All immigration rules governing natural parents and children apply to adoptive relatives, but there are some additional procedures to be followed. The adoption must have taken place before the child reached the age of 16. Petitioning a relative with an adoptive relationship can be tricky.

The good news is that you can quickly determine if you are eligible for a family-based green card. That means there is very little room for interpretation. immigration law narrowly defines eligibility for a family-based green card. Ineligibility Reasons for a Green Card Application Denial Family-based applications for a green card are based on a family relationship with a U.S. That’s nearly 12% of received applications and represents an increase over the previous period. In fiscal year 2018, data shows that USCIS received a total of 835,972 petitions for alien relatives (Form I-130) and also denied 52,868.ĭuring the same period, USCIS received 334,182 family-based applications to adjust status (Form I-485) and denied 39,836 applications. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) denies thousands of green card applications. RECOMMENDED: Family-Based Immigration in the United States Denial StatisticsĮach year U.S. Applicants use Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status. Adjustment of status is the process of applying for a green card while inside the United States.

Consular processing refers to the application of a green card outside the United States at a U.S. Then, with an approved I-130 petition and availability of an immigrant visa, the foreign national may then apply for the green card through one of two paths: consular processing or adjustment of status. family member must file Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, to establish a qualifying relationship with the foreign national relative. employment, investment, lottery, etc.), but many of the denial reasons may be the same.įamily-based green card cases have two major components. The article does not address the additional paths to obtain a green card (i.e. This article is focused on USCIS denials of family-based applications for green card.
