Parents dream of building a better world for their children. They work hard at their jobs and at home to provide a comfortable standard of living. They may also pursue unusual opportunities that will lead to a better life for their children, even if it means personal sacrifice.
For people all over the world, moving to the United States is a means of pursuing a better future. Parents who qualify for educational opportunities or employment in the United States may hope to use those opportunities for the benefit of their children. They understandably don’t want to travel to the United States to send money home for their children. They want to help their children lawfully enter the country.
Visa holders can often bring their children
Whether someone obtains a visa because of a job offer or enrollment at a graduate school program, they may be eligible to bring their dependent family members when they enter the United States. Visa holders can submit separate applications for their spouses and their children.
Successful applications will allow someone to bring their immediate family with them when they enter and live in the United States. People can request as many child visas as their families require. However, subordinate visas are only available to children who meet specific standards. A child will need to be under the age of 21 to be eligible for a visa related to a parent’s visa. Married children typically do not qualify, nor will their spouses, the sons-in-law or daughters-in-law of the visa holder.
How long do child visas last?
Visas related to someone’s employment or education may vary in length depending on the program. Some visas only last for the duration of the project. Others are valid for a certain amount of time. H-1B visas can remain valid for up to six years. The visas for spouses and children typically offer the same duration as the primary visa. Many times, the primary visa holder and their family members will be able to renew certain visas at least once. Some families can turn non-immigrant visas into an opportunity to qualify for a green card.
Arranging for children to travel with parents who obtain visas may provide them with life-altering opportunities. Seeking legal guidance is a good way to get started.