U.S. citizens who are at least 21 years old can sponsor their brothers or sisters for permanent residency in the U.S. However, siblings fall under the F4 Family Preference Category, which has one of the longest visa backlogs in the U.S. immigration system.
✅ Eligibility Requirements
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The petitioner must be a U.S. citizen, age 21 or older.
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The petitioner and sibling must share at least one common parent.
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The sibling must be outside the U.S. or lawfully present.
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Same-sex, half-, step-, or adopted siblings may qualify if a legal sibling relationship exists.
📝 Step-by-Step Process
1. File Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative)
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Include evidence of your citizenship.
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Submit documents showing both siblings share at least one parent (e.g., birth certificates).
2. Wait for Visa Availability – F4 Category
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After I-130 is approved, the sibling enters a long visa queue.
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Visa Bulletin determines priority date progression.
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Wait time varies: currently 15+ years for most countries; longer for India, Mexico, and the Philippines.
3. Consular Processing or Adjustment of Status
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If abroad, sibling applies for an immigrant visa through U.S. consulate.
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If in the U.S. (and eligible), they may adjust status via Form I-485.
⏳ Current Wait Times (Estimates)
| Country | Approximate Wait Time |
|---|---|
| Worldwide | 15–16 years |
| India | 17+ years |
| Mexico | 20+ years |
| Philippines | 20–23 years |
📌 Tips for a Successful Petition
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File early to secure your sibling’s priority date.
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Keep address and contact information updated during long wait.
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Encourage your sibling to pursue alternative visa paths in the meantime (e.g., work, study, or investor visas).
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Notify USCIS of any changes in family status, like marriage or death.
📞 Reach out to Borderless Lawyers for strategic legal advice on filing your sibling’s petition and exploring faster immigration options while waiting.