Wisconsin Immigration Law: How to Bring Your Sibling to the U.S.

Wisconsin immigration law provides various pathways for U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents to bring family members to the United States. One of the most common ways to do this is through sibling sponsorship. If you are a U.S. citizen looking to bring your sibling to live in Wisconsin, understanding the process is crucial.

The first step is for the sponsoring sibling to file a Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative. This form establishes the familial relationship between you and your sibling. To ensure a successful application, you will need to provide proof of your U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent residency, as well as documentation proving your relationship, such as birth certificates or other legal documents.

Once the I-130 petition is approved, your sibling must go through the visa application process. This includes applying for an immigrant visa through the U.S. Department of State. If they are living outside the U.S., they will apply at a U.S. consulate or embassy in their home country. If they are already in the U.S. under a different visa, they may be eligible to adjust their status to that of a lawful permanent resident using Form I-485.

It’s important to note that the wait times for sibling visas can be lengthy. Siblings of U.S. citizens fall under the F4 family preference category, which has a limited number of visas available each year. The processing time can vary significantly based on the sibling’s country of origin, so be prepared for a wait that can span several years.

After your sibling’s immigrant visa is granted or their adjustment of status is approved, they will be issued a green card which allows them to live and work in Wisconsin permanently. They will also be able to apply for U.S. citizenship after meeting the residency requirements.

Additionally, while awaiting visa processing, it might be helpful to consult with an immigration attorney specializing in family reunification to navigate any legal complexities. An attorney can assist with documentation, timely filings, and responding to any issues that may arise during the application process.

In summary, bringing your sibling to the U.S. under Wisconsin immigration law requires submitting the I-130 petition, completing the visa application process, and potentially dealing with long wait times. With proper planning and legal assistance, your family can be reunited in the United States.