The IR-5 visa is specifically designed for the parents of U.S. citizens who are 21 years old or older. To apply for an IR-5 visa, you will generally follow these steps:
- Petition Filing:
- The U.S. citizen child must file a Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, on behalf of the parent. This form is available on the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website.
- Approval of the Petition:
- Once the petition is filed, USCIS will review it and, if approved, send a notice of approval to the U.S. citizen petitioner. If denied, USCIS will provide reasons for the denial.
- Visa Processing:
- After the petition is approved, it is forwarded to the National Visa Center (NVC) for further processing. The NVC will provide information about the visa application process, fees, and required documentation.
- Document Collection:
- Collect the required documents, including proof of the relationship, financial support, and other supporting documentation.
- Affidavit of Support:
- The U.S. citizen petitioner must submit an Affidavit of Support (Form I-864) to demonstrate that they have the financial means to support their parent(s).
- Visa Application:
- Complete the visa application form, DS-260, online. You will need the case number provided by the NVC.
- Medical Examination:
- Undergo a medical examination by an authorized panel physician. A list of approved panel physicians is typically provided by the U.S. embassy or consulate.
- Interview:
- Attend a visa interview at the U.S. embassy or consulate in the parent’s home country. The consular officer will review the documents and ask questions about the relationship and eligibility for the visa.
- Visa Issuance:
- If the visa is approved, the parent will receive the visa on their passport, allowing them to travel to the United States.
- Travel to the U.S.:
- Upon arrival in the U.S., the parent will go through immigration inspection. The IR-5 visa allows the parent to become a U.S. permanent resident upon entry.
It’s important to note that immigration processes may change, and it’s advisable to check the official USCIS website or contact the U.S. embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date information and instructions specific to your situation. Additionally, consulting with an immigration attorney can provide guidance and assistance throughout the process.
IR-5 visa checklist of required documents
While specific document requirements may vary based on individual circumstances and the U.S. embassy or consulate involved, here is a general checklist of documents commonly required for the IR-5 visa application process:
- Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative:
- Completed and signed by the U.S. citizen petitioner.
- Proof of U.S. Citizenship:
- U.S. passport, Certificate of Naturalization, or Certificate of Citizenship for the petitioner.
- Proof of Relationship:
- Birth certificate of the U.S. citizen child showing the parent’s name.
- Marriage certificates or divorce decrees if applicable.
- Proof of Financial Support:
- Affidavit of Support (Form I-864) completed and signed by the U.S. citizen petitioner.
- Proof of the petitioner’s income, such as tax returns, W-2 forms, and recent pay stubs.
- Proof of Identity for the Parent:
- Passport for the parent applying for the visa.
- Visa Application Form DS-260:
- Completed online and submitted through the Consular Electronic Application Center (CEAC).
- Photographs:
- Passport-sized photographs meeting the specific requirements of the U.S. embassy or consulate.
- Medical Examination:
- Completed by an authorized panel physician. The results are sent directly to the embassy or consulate.
- Police Certificates:
- Police clearance certificates from each country where the parent has lived for six months or more since turning 16.
- Visa Interview Appointment Confirmation:
- Appointment confirmation letter or email from the U.S. embassy or consulate.
- Fee Payments:
- Payment receipts for any applicable visa fees.
- Proof of Relationship with the U.S. Citizen Child:
- Photographs, letters, or other evidence demonstrating a bona fide parent-child relationship.
- Proof of Legal Name Change (if applicable):
- If the parent has changed their name, legal documentation of the name change.
It’s crucial to check the specific requirements of the U.S. embassy or consulate where the visa interview will take place, as document requirements may vary. The National Visa Center (NVC) will provide guidance on document submission and additional requirements after the I-130 petition is approved. Always refer to the latest information on the official U.S. Department of State website or contact the relevant embassy or consulate for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
