What Is an IR-5 Visa?
The IR-5 visa is a U.S. family-based immigrant visa that allows parents of U.S. citizens to live permanently in the United States. It’s also referred to as a green card for parents of U.S. citizens. This visa falls under the Immediate Relative category, meaning there is no annual cap or waitlist, which can significantly reduce processing time.
To qualify, the U.S. citizen petitioner must be at least 21 years old and willing to sponsor their parent(s) through a form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative).
Who Qualifies for an IR-5 Visa?
To apply for an IR-5 visa, both the petitioner and the parent beneficiary must meet specific eligibility criteria:
U.S. Citizen Petitioner Must:
- Be at least 21 years old
- Be a U.S. citizen (not just a green card holder)
- Prove the parent-child relationship
- Be willing to financially sponsor the parent via Form I-864 (Affidavit of Support)
Beneficiary Parent Must:
- Reside outside the U.S. at the time of application
- Have no disqualifying criminal or immigration violations
- Be biologically or legally recognized as the parent
IR-5 Visa Application Process
The IR-5 process involves several stages. Here’s what to expect:
1. File Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative)
Filed by the U.S. citizen child with USCIS. This proves the familial relationship.
2. USCIS Processing & Approval
Once approved, the case is forwarded to the National Visa Center (NVC).
3. DS-260 Form & Affidavit of Support
The parent completes the DS-260 (immigrant visa application). The child submits Form I-864 to prove financial ability to support the parent.
4. Medical Exam & Interview
The parent attends a required medical exam and an interview at the U.S. consulate or embassy.
5. Visa Approval & U.S. Entry
Upon approval, the IR-5 visa is issued, and the parent may enter the U.S. as a lawful permanent resident or green card holder.
Required Documents for IR-5 Visa
Here’s a list of what’s commonly needed for an IR-5 visa application:
- Valid passports for the parent
- Petitioner’s U.S. birth certificate or proof of citizenship
- Proof of parent-child relationship
- Form I-864 and supporting financial documents
- Police clearance certificate
- Medical exam results
- DS-260 confirmation
Additional documents may be required depending on your parent’s country of origin or prior immigration history.
How Long Does IR-5 Processing Take?
The typical IR-5 visa processing time is 12 to 24 months, depending on USCIS backlogs and consular processing.
Since this is an immediate relative category, there’s no waiting for a visa number to become available, making it faster than several other green cards.
Can Parents Work or Travel With an IR-5 Visa?
Yes! Once admitted to the U.S. as a green card holder, your parent can:
- Work legally
- Travel internationally with their green card
- Apply for U.S. citizenship after 5 years of permanent residence
Get Help With Your IR-5 Visa Application Today
If you’re a U.S. citizen looking to reunite with your parents in the U.S., the IR-5 visa is the fastest way to make it happen. At ILOLA, we’ve helped thousands of families bring loved ones to the United States.
Schedule a consultation today to learn how we can guide you through the process, from petition to green card.
Call us at (213) 375-4084 or use our online contact form to get started.
