More details to this question:
I recently got married to a US citizen and am about to apply for my green card soon. The only problem is that I was told that I need a relative who's a US green card holder or citizen and makes over $30,000 yearly. The major issue is that my wife’s family doesn't know I'm here illegally, and I'd like to keep things that way since I'm so embarrassed about it, so asking them really isn't an option. My father, however, is a restaurant owner who makes almost $500,000 after taxes, but is here illegally. Is there any way he could do it? I have quite a few friends that make over $30,000 but I was specifically told that relative is required.
2 ANSWERS
More information is needed about the underlying adjustment. How did you enter the U.S. If you entered the US with a visa and overstayed, then you are allowed to file for adjustment. There may be other exceptions, but those who enter without inspection often have trouble. How many children does your wife or joint sponsor have? Usually, but not always, a joint petitioner may be able to act as a joint sponsor with less than $30,000. As a result, I strongly recommend an appointment or teleconference with a competent and experienced immigration attorney, before there are any more complications.
Answered on Nov 04th, 2017 at 8:32 AM
If your U.S. citizen spouse does not have sufficient documentable income to meet the requirements, then you may need a joint sponsor. The joint sponsor need not be a relative, but instead generally may be any U.S. citizen or Permanent Resident who has sufficient documentable income and who is willing to assume the responsibilities contemplated by the Affidavit of Support. Beyond being married to a U.S. citizen and having a joint sponsor, there are many other details that can determine eligibility for immigration benefits, and this is particularly true if you may have entered the U.S. unlawfully and without inspection. There really is no substitute for you and your wife to consult with an immigration attorney who, after learning all of the relevant information, could advise about eligibilities, options and strategies to attain your goals, and who then could offer legal representation in the often complex application process.
Answered on Nov 02nd, 2017 at 2:06 AM