1. What is the process for applying for a green card for an Amerasian child of a U.S. citizen?
The process for applying for a green card (also known as a permanent resident card) for an Amerasian child of a U.S. citizen involves the following steps:
1. The U.S. citizen parent needs to apply for the child’s citizenship by filing Form N-600, Application for Certificate of Citizenship with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
2. Once the Form N-600 is approved, the child will be granted U.S. citizenship and will need to file Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, with USCIS in order to obtain their green card.
3. The child will also need to submit various documents to USCIS in order to prove their identity, status, and relationship to the U.S. citizen parent, including a birth certificate, marriage certificate (if applicable), passport, and any other documents required by USCIS.
4. After USCIS has reviewed all documents submitted, they will send an appointment notice for an interview at a local USCIS office where the child can receive their green card.
2. Is there an age limit for Amerasian children to apply for a green card?
Yes, there is an age limit for Amerasian children to apply for a green card. According to U.S. immigration law, Amerasian children who were born on or after December 22, 1950 and before October 18, 1982 are eligible to apply for a green card.
3. What documents must be provided to prove the Amerasian child is the biological child of a U.S. citizen?
To prove that an Amerasian child is the biological child of a U.S. citizen, generally two types of documents are required: government-issued birth certificates/registration documents and proof of parental relationship, such as a marriage certificate or court order. Other supporting documents, such as DNA tests and adoption records, may also be necessary.
4. Does the Amerasian child need to be in the United States in order to apply for a green card?
No, an Amerasian child does not need to be in the United States to apply for a green card. They can apply from outside the United States and be eligible for a green card, as long as they meet the other requirements.
5. How long does it take to process an application for a green card for an Amerasian child?
It depends on the individual case, but most typically green card applications for Amerasian children take between four to six months to process.
6. How much does it cost to file an application for a green card for an Amerasian child?
The filing fee to apply for a green card (Form I-485) for an Amerasian child is $1,225. Additionally, applicants may need to pay a biometrics fee of $85.
7. Is there any special assistance available for filing an application for a green card for an Amerasian child?
Yes, special assistance is available for filing an application for a green card for an Amerasian child. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has a special unit dedicated to processing Amerasian applications. The USCIS Refugee and Asylum Division (RAD) Amerasian Unit may be reached at 1-800-375-5283.
8. What is the difference between a Green Card and a Permanent Resident Card (PRC)?
A Green Card is an informal name for the Permanent Resident Card (PRC), which is an identification card issued by the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to those who are legally granted permanent residence in the United States. The Green Card is a physical document that verifies the holder’s legal right to live and work in the US indefinitely. The PRC is a plastic wallet-sized card with the holder’s photo, name, date of birth, and other personal information. The PRC is only valid for ten years, after which it must be renewed.
9. How does the Amerasian Child’s Parent need to prove their U.S. Citizenship?
The Amerasian child’s parent must provide proof of their U.S. citizenship by providing a birth certificate, passport, or other documents issued by the U.S. government that prove their U.S. citizenship.
10. Does the Amerasian Child need to have his/her own passport in order to apply?
No, an Amerasian child does not need to have their own passport in order to apply for the Amerasian Homecoming Act. However, they will need to provide proof of their Amerasian status, such as birth certificates or other official documents.
11. How long after the Green Card is issued will the Amerasian Child be able to stay in the U.S.?
Once the Green Card is issued, the Amerasian child can stay indefinitely in the U.S. and will have the same rights as any other permanent resident.
12. Does the Amerasian Child have to provide proof of good moral character when applying for their Green Card?
Yes, applicants for lawful permanent residence must provide proof of good moral character in order to obtain an immigrant visa or adjustment of status.
13. What documents are necessary to prove that an Amerasian Child is eligible for a green card?
To prove eligibility for a green card for an Amerasian child, the applicant will need to provide the following documents:
1. Birth certificate
2. Proof of their Amerasian status from their home country, which may be a parent’s military service records or other government documents
3. Proof of relationship with a US citizen parent or legal guardian
4. Documentation of entry into the US, if applicable
5. Evidence of good moral character
6. Proof of financial support from the US citizen parent or legal guardian
7. Valid passport
8. Completed immigration forms such as Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status, Form I-864, Affidavit of Support and form I-693, Report of Medical Examination and Vaccination Record.
14. Does the parent of the Amerasian Child need to provide additional documents when filing an application for a Green Card?
Yes, the parent of an Amerasian child must provide additional documents when filing an application for a Green Card. These documents include evidence of the biological relationship between the parent and child, such as a marriage certificate or birth certificate, and proof of the parent’s US citizenship or immigration status.
15. Are there any special requirements or limitations on travel outside of the U.S. when an Amerasian Child has received their Green Card?
When an Amerasian child has received their green card, they are allowed to travel outside the United States with it. Depending on the country they are traveling to, they may need a valid U.S. passport in addition to the green card in order to gain entry. Additionally, they may need a visa for the country they are visiting, depending on the country’s specific requirements.
16. Can the American parent of an Amerasian Child receive any benefits if they receive their Green Card?
Yes, the American parent of an Amerasian child who receives a Green Card may be eligible for certain benefits. This includes access to social security, housing, and education benefits. Many of the benefits vary depending on the state in which the family resides. Additionally, Amerasian children may be eligible for special immigration programs, such as the Amerasian Immigration Act of 1982.
17. Are there any fees associated with applying for a Green Card on behalf of an Amerasian Child?
No, there are no fees associated with applying for a Green Card on behalf of an Amerasian child. The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) does not charge a filing fee for an Amerasian child’s immigrant visa or adjustment of status application.
18. Are there any special considerations given to families with multiple Amerasian Children when applying for their Green Card?
Yes, families with multiple Amerasian children are eligible for special consideration under the Amerasian Immigration Act of 1982. Under this Act, families with two or more Amerasian children may be eligible to receive “family preference” in their Green Card application. This means that they may be eligible to receive a Green Card faster than individuals who do not have family preference. However, each application is reviewed on a case-by-case basis, and additional documentation may be required.
19. Is there any additional information or documentation needed from the American parent of an Amerasian Child if they want to sponsor them for U.S citizenship later on?
Yes, the American parent of an Amerasian Child would need to provide additional information and documentation in order to sponsor them for U.S. citizenship. This includes proof of a biological relationship between the parent and the child, proof that the parent provided financial support for the child, evidence of legal custody or guardianship, and proof of legal residence in the United States for the parent.
20. What are the rights and privileges afforded to Amerasian Children that have obtained their Green Card?
Amerasian children who obtain a green card have the same rights and privileges as other lawful permanent residents of the United States. This includes the right to work and live in the US, to attend school, to apply for citizenship, to receive certain government benefits, and to travel internationally.