Adoption

Adoption can play a role in the green card process for someone seeking to obtain a family-based green card in a few different ways.

If you are a United States citizen and you have adopted a child from another country, you may be able to sponsor your child for a green card through the Orphan or Hague Process. The Orphan Process is for children who have been abandoned or orphaned, while the Hague Process is for children who are being adopted from a country that is a member of the Hague Adoption Convention.

If you are a lawful permanent resident (green card holder) and you have adopted a child from another country, you may also be able to sponsor your child for a green card. However, this process is generally more complex and may require additional documentation, such as proof of the legal adoption and a home study.

It is important to note that in order to sponsor a child for a green card through adoption, the adoption must be a full and legal adoption. This means that the child must be treated as if they are your biological child, and the adoption must be recognized by the laws of the state where you live. Additionally, the adoption must have occurred before the child turned 16.

If you are seeking to obtain a green card through adoption, it is advisable to consult with an immigration attorney who can guide you through the process and ensure that all necessary documentation is properly submitted.