Sponsoring your child for a green card is a common goal for many immigrant families in the U.S. However, one of the most important requirements is proving you have enough income to financially support your child. In this guide, we’ll break down the income requirements for a Child Green Card Petition, how to file the Form I-130 for Child Petition, and what you need to know about sponsoring children to the USA.
Income Requirements for Sponsoring Children to the USA
When filing a petition for children immigration, the U.S. government requires sponsors to meet certain financial thresholds to ensure the child will not rely on public benefits. The main form used is Form I-864 (Affidavit of Support), which proves you meet the minimum income requirements.
Minimum Income Needed (2025 Guidelines)
Your required income depends on your household size, including:
- Yourself
- Your dependents (spouse, children, etc.)
- The child you are sponsoring
The 2025 poverty guidelines (used for Form I-864) require the following minimum annual income:
Household Size | Minimum Income (125% of Poverty Guidelines) |
2 (You + 1 dependent) | $26,437 |
3 (You + 2 dependents) | $33,312 |
4 (You + 3 dependents) | $40,187 |
Each additional person | + $6,875 |
Example: If you are sponsoring one child and have a spouse and another child, your household size is 4, requiring at least $40,187 per year.
What If My Income Is Too Low?
If you don’t meet the income requirement, you have options:
✅ Use a Joint Sponsor – A U.S. citizen or green card holder with sufficient income can co-sponsor.
✅ Include Assets – You can use savings, property, or investments (must be worth 3x the income gap).
✅ Combine Income – If a household member (e.g., spouse) earns income, it can be included.
Steps for Filing a Child Green Card Petition
- File Form I-130 – Establishes the parent-child relationship.
- Wait for Approval & Visa Availability – Depends on whether your child is under 21 (immediate relative) or over 21 (longer wait).
- Submit Affidavit of Support (I-864) – Proves financial eligibility.
- Complete Consular Processing or Adjustment of Status – If the child is abroad, they’ll attend an interview at a U.S. embassy.
You can also read: How Long Does an I-751 Waiver Take to Process?
Common Questions About Family Immigration for Children
Can I Sponsor My Child if I’m a Green Card Holder?
- Yes, but processing times vary:
- Under 21? Faster (no annual limits).
- Over 21? Longer wait (F2B visa category).
- What If My Child Is Already in the U.S.?
- They may adjust status (Form I-485) if they entered legally.
- How Long Does the Process Take?
- Under 21: ~12–24 months.
- Over 21: 6+ years (depends on country).
Final Thoughts
Sponsoring your child through a family immigration for children petition requires proof of income, proper documentation, and patience. By understanding the financial requirements and preparing your Form I-130 for child petition correctly, you can help your child secure their green card smoothly. Need help with sponsorship? Consult an immigration attorney for personalized guidance!
FAQs
You must meet 125% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines (unless you’re on active military duty, which requires only 100%). For example:
- Sponsoring 1 child (household of 3 including spouse): $33,312/year (2025)
- Sponsoring 2 children (household of 4 including spouse): $40,187/year
Income requirements increase with household size.
Yes! If your income doesn’t meet the threshold, a U.S. citizen or green card holder (e.g., a relative or friend) can be a joint sponsor by filing their own Form I-864. They must meet the income requirement for their own household size plus the sponsored child.
Yes, but only if they are liquid (easily convertible to cash, like savings or stocks). The value must be at least 3x the income shortfall.
Example: If you’re $5,000 short, you’d need $15,000 in assets
No—the income requirement is the same, but the wait time is much longer (6+ years for most countries).
Yes! If your spouse lives with you and their income will continue, you can combine incomes on Form I-864. Your spouse needs to submit Form I-864A. Their income must be documented (tax returns, pay stubs).
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Zechen Feng
Zechen Feng is the founder and principal attorney at Feng Immigration Law, where he is dedicated to helping individuals and families navigate the U.S. immigration system with clarity and confidence. With extensive experience in immigration law and a personalized approach to every case, Zechen is passionate about advocating for his clients’ rights and futures. Through the blog, he shares practical guidance, legal updates, and expert insights to empower those on their immigration journey.
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