The US Department of State warns immigrant families that children who turn 21 before entering the US may lose their ability to join their parents.
A child immigrating with a parent must be unmarried, qualify under the parent’s visa category, and be under 21 at the time of entrance, according to the department. Visas, immigration
The department advised families with children reaching 21 to carefully plan their immigration process.
“If your child will soon turn 21, your child could become ineligible to immigrate with you,” the government said.
A youngster who loses eligibility due to age may need a fresh petition. The department warns that this may delay the child’s immigrant visa application.
If a visa is available under the applicable category before the child turns 21, the National Visa Center may be able to expedite.
The agency stated that an expedited process is not possible without a visa before the child turns 21. Visas, immigration
The US government also noted the Child Status Protection Act, which may allow a child to remain eligible under their parent’s immigration petition after turning 21.
Legal eligibility is not automatic.
The agency stated a consular officer would determine if the Child Status Protection Act applied during the parent’s immigrant visa interview.
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