Reuniting with parents is one of the most meaningful parts of family-based immigration. If you are a U.S. citizen over the age of 21, the IR5 visa allows you to bring your foreign-born parent to the United States as a lawful permanent resident. This visa offers a straightforward path to a green card without quotas or waitlists, helping families live together and support one another across generations.

At Sharma Law Associates, LLC, our New York IR5 visa attorneys work closely with clients to prepare strong, complete applications that minimize delays and overcome common obstacles. We understand the legal, emotional, and logistical challenges of sponsoring a parent, and we are here to guide you every step of the way.

To learn more about your legal options, contact us today at 646-846-4221, online, or schedule a personalized consultation on our calendar.

What Is the IR5 Visa?

The IR5 visa is a family-based immigrant visa that allows the parent of a U.S. citizen to enter the United States and receive a green card. This visa falls under the “immediate relative” category, meaning it is not subject to annual numerical limits. Once approved, your parent will become a lawful permanent resident with a 10-year green card and full access to U.S. work and travel rights.

Key benefits of the IR5 visa include:

· No waiting period due to visa caps.

· Direct path to a permanent green card.

· No need for conditional residency.

· Eligibility to apply for U.S. citizenship after five years.

Our New York IR5 visa lawyers help families prepare petitions that meet all eligibility requirements and anticipate potential problems before they arise.

Who Qualifies for an IR5 Visa?

To be eligible for an IR5 visa, both the sponsoring U.S. citizen and the parent must meet specific requirements.

The sponsoring child must:

· Be a U.S. citizen (green card holders cannot sponsor parents).

· Be at least 21 years old.

· Reside in the United States.

The foreign-born parent must:

· Be the biological or legally adopted parent of a U.S. citizen.

· Be living outside the United States at the time of the application.

· Intend to reside permanently in the United States.

Our IR5 visa attorneys in New York will assess your specific circumstances and help you determine whether this visa is the appropriate choice for your family.

Filing Form I-130 for Your Parent

The first step in the IR5 visa process is filing Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, with United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). This form establishes the legal parent-child relationship and starts the visa process.

The I-130 petition must include:

· Proof of the sponsor’s U.S. citizenship (passport, birth certificate, or naturalization certificate).

· A copy of the parents’ birth certificates showing the sponsor as the child.

· Proof of name changes, if applicable.

· Supporting evidence of the familial relationship.

At Sharma Law Associates, LLC, our New York IR5 visa attorneys work with clients to prepare clear, well-organized petition packages that reduce the likelihood of delays, rejections, or requests for additional evidence.

Next Steps: The National Visa Center (NVC)

Once the I-130 is approved, the case is transferred to the National Visa Center (NVC).

At this stage, the sponsor and beneficiary must complete several additional requirements:

· Submit Form DS-260 (Immigrant Visa Application).

· Upload civil documents such as passports, birth certificates, and police certificates.

· Submit Form I-864 (Affidavit of Support), demonstrating that the sponsor can financially support the parent.

We help clients navigate the NVC stage by explaining each requirement in detail, avoiding common mistakes, and ensuring that all documents are submitted correctly and on time.

The IR5 Visa Interview Process

After the NVC accepts the documentation, the U.S. consulate or embassy in your parents’ home country will schedule an interview.

During this interview, a consular officer will:

· Review all submitted materials.

· Confirm the relationship between the sponsor and parent.

· Ensure that the parent meets admissibility requirements.

We prepare our clients for this critical step by:

· Conducting interview preparation sessions.

· Reviewing all supporting documents.

· Explaining the types of questions the officer may ask.

Our New York IR5 visa attorneys offer practical support to reduce anxiety and increase the chances of a successful outcome.

After the Visa Is Approved

Once your parents’ IR5 visa is approved and they arrive in the United States, they will be granted lawful permanent residence. Their green card will typically be mailed to your U.S. address within a few weeks of entry.

We assist families with post-arrival tasks such as:

· Applying for a Social Security number.

· Understanding green card rights and responsibilities.

· Exploring eligibility for public benefits or healthcare.

· Beginning the timeline toward naturalization, if desired.

Our role does not end with visa approval. We continue to serve as your legal resource well into your family’s future.

Common Challenges in IR5 Visa Cases

While the IR5 visa is relatively straightforward, issues can arise in certain situations, including:

· Missing or inconsistent documentation.

· Difficulty locating foreign civil records.

· Medical concerns or travel limitations for elderly parents.

· Delays at the NVC or consular level.

Our IR5 visa attorneys in New York are skilled at solving these challenges quickly and effectively. We know how to work with consulates, obtain secondary evidence, and keep your case moving forward.

Why Work With Sharma Law Associates, LLC?

At Sharma Law Associates, LLC, we offer more than just paperwork.

We offer peace of mind. Our New York IR5 visa lawyers are committed to:

· Providing personal attention and clear communication.

· Crafting customized strategies for each family.

· Responding promptly to your questions and concerns.

· Delivering results with integrity and professionalism.

We understand how important it is to bring your parent to the United States. We are here to make the process as smooth and successful as possible.

Speak With Our New York IR5 Visa Attorneys Today

Helping your parent join you in the United States is a decisive step toward family unity and long-term security. Let Sharma Law Associates, LLC be your trusted guide through the IR5 visa process.

To speak with a knowledgeable New York IR5 visa attorney, call us at 646-846-4221, contact us online, or schedule a personalized consultation on our calendar. We are ready to help you take the next step.

Dedicated IR5 Visa Lawyers in New York, NY