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The Daily Insight

Can I sponsor my brother-in-law to us?

Author

Andrew Ramirez

Published Apr 10, 2026

You cannot sponsor your brother-in-law personally. A U.S. citizen can only petition for a parent, spouse, son/daughter, or child.

Can I claim my brother-in-law as a dependent?

It is possible to claim your brother-in-law as a qualifying relative dependent, as long as he meets all five of the following conditions: Marital status: Generally, a dependent cannot file a joint tax return with a spouse.

Can US citizen sponsor green card for brother in law?

Under U.S. immigration law, there are certain relatives that U.S. citizens are allowed to petition for permanent resident status for. Brothers and sisters are included among the family members citizens can sponsor for a green card. As a note, a citizen has to be at least 21 to petition for a green card for a sibling.

How long does it take to sponsor a brother to USA?

This usually takes somewhere between 2 to 5 years. But the waiting time may further extend in some cases. You may be asked to wait until the priority date and the visa bulletin dates become current.

Can a girlfriend be a qualifying relative?

You can claim a boyfriend or girlfriend as a dependent on your federal income taxes if that person meets the IRS definition of a “qualifying relative.”

Can a brother file for a sister in USA?

If you are a U.S. citizen, and at least 21 years old, you can petition for your siblings (brothers or sisters) to live in the United States as green card holders (lawful permanent residents). Siblings include children from at least one common parent. You do not necessarily need to be related to your sibling by blood.

How long does it take for I 130 to be approved for Brother?

Form I-130 Processing Times For immediate relatives of a U.S. citizen, I-130 processing times currently average 15 to 20 months (as of June 7, 2021). For family preference visas (for example, siblings), processing times can range anywhere from 13.5 months to 20 or more years.